Steelers' Russell Wilson Getting 'Closer and Closer' to Returning from Calf Injury

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson says he is getting "closer and closer" to returning from his calf injury that kept him sidelined for Week 1.

"I'm just trying to be smart and got to do a lot of work today on the field and everything else, throwing and all that, so just trying to be smart," Wilson told reporters on Thursday, per ESPN's Brooke Pryor.

The Steelers are three days out from hitting the road to face Wilson's former team in a Sunday contest against the Denver Broncos.

Wilson was limited for a second straight practice on Thursday.

Wilson is listed as the first-string quarterback on the Steelers' depth chart, but sat out Sunday's season opener due to his injury.

In his absence Justin Fields went 17-of-23 for 156 yards, while adding 14 carries for 57 yards, as the Steelers earned an 18-10 road win over the Atlanta Falcons.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said on Tuesday that the team was preparing for Sunday's game against the Broncos "as if Justin is going to be our quarterback," per Pryor.

The Steelers were continuing to prepare with that mindset as of Thursday, per team reporter Teresa Varley.

"I think that's the appropriate way to do it," Tomlin said on Tuesday. "Speculation is a waste of time. Russell's hurt. He is not available to us. And so, as you guys know, as a general practice, I focus my energy on those that are available and their readiness."

Tomlin noted that, although the Steelers would generally require players to participate in Friday practice in order to place in a Sunday game, there could be an exception for a veteran like Wilson, Pryor reported.

Wilson was released by the Broncos two years into a five-year, $245 million contract. His former team is currently paying $38 million of his 2024 salary in order for him to play for the Steelers.