NFL Insider: Russell Wilson's absence could open door for Justin Fields

Quarterback Justin Fields isn't looking to play second fiddle to veteran Russell Wilson on the Pittsburgh Steelers all season, and it appears he's found a potential opening to impact the depth chart.

Wilson has been a non-participant in drills over the first three practice, providing Fields an opportunity to shine with the first team. And he's done just that, with multiple highlight-reel throws making the rounds on social media.

NFL Insider Ian Rapoport feels Wilson's absence could evolve into a serious issue if he doesn't return sooner rather than later.

"Health-wise, this is no issue at all. But that's not really what we're talking about here. Russell Wilson needs to be careful," Rapoport said on NFL Network . "If he can in any way control this, he needs to be careful because this really is how it happens, right? I mean, Justin Fields went out there today, sounds like he was pretty impressive. There's a throw to Van Jefferson that everyone's been talking about. And Justin Fields, as a thrower and as an athlete, there's a lot of really impressive things that he can do."

Fields is the younger, more explosive option in the quarterbacks room, but head coach Mike Tomlin has made it clear that Wilson is the No. 1 option on multiple occasions.

This is why the former Chicago Bear replacing Wilson at some point in the middle of the year seems like a more realistic outcome.