The Pittsburgh Steelers are 30 minutes away from announcing their game-time decision on whether quarterback Justin Fields will be sidelined or suit up to backup starter Russell Wilson.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported earlier today that sources say Fields’ injury is not major, and he’s not missed practice time.
Justin Fields injury update
On Sunday morning, ESPN’s Brooke Pryor tweeted on X that Fields (hamstring) was added to the injury report as questionable and would be a game-time decision. He was not listed on Saturday’s initial report.
How long will Justin Fields be out?
It would be a surprise if the Steelers included Fields among active players with 60 minutes to spare before their Week 9 bye. If Pittsburgh truly intends to use Fields in limited packages in the future, there’s no sense in starting now and risking further injury.
If Rapoport’s sources are correct that Fields’ injury isn’t currently a major concern, but the Steelers hold him out as a precaution, he should return to his backup role for the Washington Commanders showdown in Week 10.
Steelers QB depth chart
If Fields is inactive and something happens with starter Russell Wilson, veteran journeyman Kyle Allen take over quarterback duties. There is no fourth option on the Steelers depth chart.
With Fields officially relegated to the backup role before last week’s New York Jets game, there are no immediate implications should Fields be sidelined this week.
The Steelers have a much-needed Week 9 bye for banged-up players to get right before their brutal second-half stretch of opponents.