The Pittsburgh Steelers currently have a 4-2 record with Justin Fields as their starting quarterback. Despite this success, rumors have been circulating that Fields’ time as a starter may be coming to an end. These rumors were fueled by reports that Russell Wilson would be taking first-team reps during practice, indicating that he may be starting in the upcoming game. Wilson had initially won the starting job over Fields in training camp but sustained a calf injury that sidelined him for the season opener. Fields, who was traded by the Chicago Bears, seized the opportunity and delivered solid performances, contributing to the team’s success.
Fields has a 66.3 completion percentage, a career-high, and has only turned the ball over twice. The Steelers are tied for first in their division, largely due to their strong defense. While Wilson may offer more upside in the passing game, his rocky history with the Broncos, where he went 11-19 as a starter, has raised doubts. Despite the potential benefits of starting Wilson, Steelers veteran quarterback Ben Roethlisberger believes that Fields should continue as the starter, emphasizing the importance of continuity and the team’s current winning streak.
Roethlisberger commended Fields for his ability to extend plays and use his legs when necessary, a skillset that Wilson may not possess to the same extent. Fields has rushed for 231 yards in his first six games, a significant drop from the 1,143 yards he ran for in 2022. However, his consistent performances and ability to avoid costly mistakes have been crucial in helping the Steelers win games. Coach Mike Tomlin, while acknowledging the potential of starting Wilson, stated that he was only considering him for the upcoming game against the New York Jets.
Wilson, who had a mixed record with the Broncos, presents a different skill set compared to Fields. While he may offer more pocket presence and passing ability, he may not be as effective in extending plays and using his legs to create opportunities. The Steelers host the struggling New York Jets on Sunday night, providing an opportunity for either Fields or Wilson to showcase their talents and contribute to the team’s success. As the quarterback situation continues to unfold, the Steelers are hopeful that their strong defense and consistent performances from their quarterback will help them maintain their position at the top of their division.
