Steelers’ Justin Fields Believes Pittsburgh Will Punish Teams With Physicality: “Right Mentality To Do That”

The Pittsburgh Steelers made significant headlines this offseason with several major moves. First, they signed quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal worth the veteran minimum. Then, they traded away their former first-round draft pick quarterback Kenny Pickett. Shortly after that move, they pulled off a shocking trade for former first-round pick quarterback Justin Fields.

Fields is set to be the backup for Wilson during the 2024 season, but has made it clear that his goal is not to remain a backup all year. He aims to take the starting job from Wilson and is excited to work alongside a player who has greatly influenced him.

As Organized Team Activities began, Fields spoke to the media. Reporter Aaron Becker interviewed him after practice, asking about implementing new offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith's strategy of being a physically punishing team. Fields expressed confidence that the Steelers would be able to punish opponents in 2024.

“Most definitely… I think not only do we have the guys, but just the guys with the right mentality to do that. I’m excited for this upcoming year and we’re going to keep working towards that goal for sure.”

The Steelers' decision to bring in Smith as their new offensive coordinator is an exciting move, although it received some slight disapproval from fans due to his struggles as a head coach. Smith has thrived as an offensive coordinator however, and adding a former head coach to the staff is a definite plus. Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin is thrilled to work with Smith during the 2024 season.

Smith, along with his new quarterbacks, Wilson and Fields, has faced challenges over the past three seasons. Despite their struggles, all three possess tremendous potential. This situation presents a high-risk, high-reward scenario for Pittsburgh. To be truthful, the Steelers quarterback investments were very low. Making it a low risk scenario in that regard.

However, the hiring of Smith has major potential for a boom or bust season. Most pundits are predicting success, largely due to the physical and punishing style of football that Smith plans to implement.

Smith features a heavy play-action offense that emphasizes a ground-and-pound rushing attack. He will have the perfect personnel in Pittsburgh to run his desired offense and should enjoy significant freedom. Consequently, his success or failure will largely fall on his shoulders.

With Fields eager to earn the starting job, excitement in the Steel City is high. The competition between Wilson and Fields should sharpen both quarterbacks, giving the Steelers a substantial upgrade regardless of who starts. Fans are thrilled to see the return of a physical style of football. They are also excited to have improved quarterback play throughout the year.

Steelers' Offense Should Surprise A Lot Of People In 2024

The Steelers boast a star-studded defense and have improved their special teams unit. While the offense has improved, there are still concerns about the wide receiver room. However, with Smith's system and a plethora of speedy options, including George Pickens, the wide receiver room might be underestimated. 

The Steelers' offense is filled with hungry players, led by quarterbacks and a coordinator eager to prove their worth. This combination should result in a good marriage of physical football and lots of wins. The Steelers hope this will translate into ending their playoff drought in 2024.

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