Russell Wilson, Steelers Quarterback, Increases Involvement in Team Activities

Struggling quarterback Russell Wilson plans to increase his involvement in practice and move past the calf injury that has kept him out of the Pittsburgh Steelers' lineup.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin remains committed to incorporating Wilson into Pittsburgh's plans, but first wants to see him prove his health.

Tomlin stated on Tuesday that Wilson will gradually increase his participation in practice after being inactive for the first four games of the season. Wilson strained his calf during training camp, giving former Chicago Bears first-round pick Justin Fields more time with the starting offense than expected.

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Wilson was named the starter after the final preseason game in August, but was limited in practice leading up to the Week 1 opener against the Atlanta Falcons. His status remained unchanged in September, as Fields led the Steelers to a 3-1 record.

Fields is once again preparing to start for the Steelers against the Dallas Cowboys (2-2) on Sunday. Until Wilson is able to fully participate in practice, Tomlin will not address the possibility of Fields keeping the starting job when both quarterbacks are healthy.

"There is potential for that, but as of now, we are not there," Tomlin stated on Tuesday.

Tomlin also expressed optimism about guard Isaac Seumalo (pectoral) and linebacker Nick Herbig (ankle) being ready for Sunday's game against the Cowboys. However, running back Jaylen Warren's status is uncertain and linebacker Alex Highsmith will be out for the second consecutive game with a groin injury.

Seumalo's return would be timely following the likely season-ending Achilles injury to James Daniels in last week's loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Daniels has been ruled out by Tomlin, but has not yet been placed on injured reserve.

Three of the Steelers' next four games are in prime time.

Pittsburgh suffered their first loss of the season last week against the Colts. Fields had 312 passing yards and 55 rushing yards with two touchdowns, leading the offense to three consecutive touchdown drives after a costly fumble.

Tomlin gave a critical assessment of Fields after the loss to the Colts.

"I appreciate his effort, but both he and the team were a bit sloppy at times. Too sloppy to secure a victory," Tomlin said.

Wilson's last start was on Christmas Eve before being benched by the Denver Broncos for the final two regular season games due to a contract dispute. He signed with the Steelers in March after also visiting the New York Giants.