Russell Wilson's calf injury will force him to miss his first game with the Steelers.
Pittsburgh listed Wilson, who was deemed questionable to play, as inactive but is the the team's emergency third quarterback under Justin Fields, who will make the start under center Sunday against the Falcons.
The issue popped up before the first training camp practices. After his calf tightness lingered, Wilson made two preseason appearances and was named the Steelers starting quarterback.
He was a full participant in Wednesday's practice but appeared as limited on Thursday, indicating a downward trend. He was listed as a non-participant on Friday, and after working out Saturday and Sunday morning, has been ruled out. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday it was trending toward Fields getting the start, and now he will.
Wilson entered camp as the QB1 over Fields after both joined the club this offseason. The calf injury opened the door for Fields. However, an up-and-down preseason from Fields that included some exchange miscues that irked coach Mike Tomlin kept Wilson in the starting seat.
Then, the calf issue popped back up.
With Fields, a Georgia native, starting Week 1, we'll see how dynamic the Steelers offense will be under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
Pittsburgh's offense has a host of questions outside of George Pickens and, on paper, lacks explosiveness. Fields' electric ability with his legs could add a needed dimension. If he impresses, the Steelers could ride him in the starter role under the guise that Wilson needs more time to heal.