The Pittsburgh Steelers' offseason has been anything but conventional. Omar Khan has taken a different approach this time around. When Art Rooney II expressed discontent with the team's direction a month ago, many fans assumed it would be the same risk-adverse Steelers. However, to fans surprise, Pittsburgh has finally taken an aggressive approach.
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Steelers Owner Art Rooney II.
The Steelers made waves in free agency by securing former Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson on a one-year deal for the veteran minimum. While many fans anticipated Wilson as the starter with Kenny Pickett in a backup role, the narrative shifted dramatically. Just hours after Wilson's debut in the Pittsburgh media, the Steelers surprised everyone by trading Pickett away.
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Steelers' quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields meet on the field.
Adding to the astonishment, the Steelers announced on Saturday a trade with the Chicago Bears, acquiring former 11th overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft, Justin Fields, in exchange for a conditional sixth-round pick.
On Monday morning, Taylor Lewan appeared on the Up & Adams show, hosted by Kay Adams, to share his thoughts on the Steelers' revamped quarterback room. He emphasized that despite Wilson being named the starter, there shouldn't be any room for complacency.
"I think they are similar, right? They are both mobile, obviously. Fields is a little more mobile now than Russell. I think the safe, conservative thing to do is go with Russell in the beginning, and that leash is going to be short. Three, four weeks in."
While Lewan was talking, Adams, the host, interjected and offered her perspective on the situation. She elaborated on how the Steelers' new offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith, excelled during his tenure with the Tennessee Titans alongside quarterback Ryan Tannehill, citing Tannehill's athleticism as a key factor.
"It’s Fields, it’s Fields. I’m trying to think of the argument for Russ, but you even saw, like Arthur. What did Arthur love using? Tannehill’s athleticism, his legs. That’s Fields all the way."
Lewan responded by explaining that regardless of Smith's preferences, Mike Tomlin ultimately has the final say. He emphasized that Wilson will indeed start the year as their quarterback. However, he reiterated that Wilson's margin for error will be slim. If Wilson encounters difficulties, Lewan fully anticipates Fields stepping in and receiving playing time as the starter.
"Yeah, it is, but I think when you go from a head coaching job with the Falcons, it doesn’t go the way you want, and you get to become the OC. You aren’t making those calls anymore. It’s gonna be Tomlin’s call. Older guy who lets his vets do their thing. Russell will have the reins going into the season, I believe, but I believe the leash will be short. It’s going to be a huge win for the Steelers overall through this thing because they are going to get the most out of both of those guys."
The Steelers have significantly bolstered their quarterback room, now boasting two starting-caliber quarterbacks. While Fields has faced challenges in winning games during his tenure with the Bears, he remains a raw talent known for dazzling fans with his deep throws and athletic prowess. Both Fields and Wilson have encountered difficulties in securing wins over the past two seasons, with a combined record of 19-39. This statistic is less than ideal for a team that hasn't experienced a losing season in the last 17 years, but the dynamic in Pittsburgh presents a much better scenario.
Steelers' Quarterback Moves Prove Vegas Always Is Correct
Two months ago, rumors were rife that the Steelers were front-runners to secure both Wilson and Fields. Numerous sportsbooks even pegged these quarterbacks as favorites to join Pittsburgh. Despite fans' confusion over the feasibility of such acquisitions, the adage rings true: "Vegas always knows." Now, both quarterbacks find themselves in Pittsburgh.
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Steelers QB Justin Fields runs away from a defensive player during a game in Pittsburgh.
Steeler Nation eagerly anticipates witnessing Wilson and Fields in action throughout the offseason and preseason. Although it's evident that Wilson holds the starting position, the unpredictable nature of the NFL leaves room for potential changes. Lewan doesn't discount the possibility of Fields earning the starting job as the season progresses. Wilson expresses enthusiasm about collaborating with Fields, fostering a notably healthier dynamic within the quarterback room.
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