Steelers' Justin Fields has 'good' day with Russell Wilson sidelined

The Steelers must decide over the next few weeks who their Week 1 starting quarterback will be between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, but only one got to make their first case on Thursday.

Wilson sat out of Pittsburgh's first day of training camp due to a calf issue. Head coach Mike Tomlin said he may have been able to practice but felt it wasn't worth risking further injury.

"It was my decision to sit him down today, create a little short-term discomfort for him, not allowing the small problem to become a bigger problem. He could be characterized as day-to-day," Tomlin said. "He wanted to (practice) and he was probably capable, but I'm getting to know him, and I just chose to create a little misery for him in the offensive unit."

It wasn't the ideal start for the 35-year-old, who reportedly has the "pole position" to be the Steelers' starting quarterback, but he was seen getting some work in after the conclusion of practice.

Fields, on the other hand, seemed to take full advantage of his opportunity to run the first-team offense. However, he found out through a 6 a.m. text from quarterbacks coach Tom Arth.

"He said, 'be ready to take some rep for the one today,'" Fields said , via Brooke Pryor of ESPN. "It's about how we react to those situations and how we adjust."

The 25-year-old looked like he adjusted just fine, especially on his highlight of the day: connecting on a long pass to wide receiver Van Jefferson.

Tomlin isn't making any rash decisions but liked what he saw.

"On the flip side of that it was an awesome opportunity for Justin," Tomlin added. "He was excited about the opportunity to lead that first group out of the huddle and take charge today. We're not painting with a broad brush just yet or making too many judgments. It was a good afternoon."

Wilson and Fields have very important years ahead that could determine the rest of their NFL careers. Both players are entering the 2024 season on prove-it one-year deals.

When asked if Pittsburgh would extend either before the start of the season, general manager Omar Khan said , "We're focused on this year and we'll see how things shake out."

All quotations obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted.