Russell Wilson 'Confident' He Could Play for Steelers vs. Raiders amid Calf Injury

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson is optimistic about potentially playing on Sunday for the first time during the 2024 season.

"I feel confident that I'd be ready to play and ready to play at a high level," Wilson said, per Mike DeFabo of The Athletic. "I think we're being really smart, too, and trying to understand how it feels. It's my first week really back with the guys. I feel really confident about that."

The 35-year-old was sidelined throughout the Steelers' first five games of the season due to a calf injury. Justin Fields took over under center for Pittsburgh and has been impressive, leading the team to a 3-2 record.

After the pair battled in training camp for the first-string quarterback role, Wilson was initially named the Steelers' Week 1 starter on Aug. 28 before he aggravated the injury and was forced to miss time.

He doesn't appear to be limited in practice while working his way back from the calf issue, as he was a full participant on Wednesday and Thursday.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin revealed that Fields will work with the starting offense in practice throughout the week, while Wilson will operate with the second unit.

"He'll get reps with the second unit as to not disrupt Justin's preparation and then we'll see where all of that leads us as we push through the week," Tomlin said on Tuesday, per ESPN's Brooke Pryor.

Fields has looked comfortable under center, completing 67.6 percent of his throws for 961 yards. He's also thrown five touchdowns compared to just one interception and has added another 172 yards on the ground.

However, it's worth noting that he completed a season-low 55.6 percent of his passes and recorded just 131 yards through the air in Week 5. After starting the season with a 3-0 record, Pittsburgh has lost two straight games.

While Fields seems to be on track towards his sixth consecutive start, Wilson could see some playing time if he stays healthy and the Steelers aren't able to get back on track.