Russell Wilson favored to start Week 1 for Steelers; Justin Fields closing in

National Football League

Updated Aug. 5, 2024 1:27 p.m. ET

Is there a quarterback controversy in Pittsburgh?

Russell Wilson joined the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year deal in March, after being released by the Denver Broncos. Shortly after, Pittsburgh also traded for former Chicago Bears QB Justin Fields.

Let’s see what the odds say at FanDuel Sportsbook regarding the starting spot in Pittsburgh as of Aug. 5.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS WEEK 1 STARTING QUARTERBACK:

Russell Wilson: -290 (bet $10 to win $13.45 total)

Justin Fields: +215 (bet $10 to win $31.50 total)

The betting odds have long indicated that the job is Wilson’s to lose, but things have gotten tighter over the past two weeks.

As of July 26, Wilson was at -620 to be the starter in Week 1, while Fields sat at +400.

Wilson has battled a calf injury during training camp, which has allowed Fields to see more reps, possibly contributing to his odds shortening in recent days.

“Wilson has rarely been sidelined with injuries,” wrote FOX Sports NFC South reporter Greg Auman last week. “He didn’t miss a game in his first nine years in Seattle, and has missed only five due to injury in the past three years. But last week’s calf injury served as a reminder that Fields is right there, ready to step in for first-team reps and make his case for the starting role. …

“Tomlin has been careful not to dwell on any competition between his quarterbacks, even as the split of reps in practice in July is monitored on a daily basis,” Auman added.

In terms of professional starts, Wilson, 35, has 188. Fields, 25, clocks in at 38.

Follow along with FOX Sports for the latest news on the NFL and other sports.