Steelers’ Arthur Smith Details The Truth About A Special Package For Justin Fields

The Pittsburgh Steelers made several significant moves this offseason. It began with their agreement to sign veteran quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum salary. Following this, they traded away their former first-round pick, quarterback Kenny Pickett, who was reportedly unhappy with the Wilson signing.

In a subsequent move, the Steelers traded for quarterback Justin Fields, a former first-round pick of the Chicago Bears. Wilson is expected to start, with Fields having the opportunity to compete for the position. However, it appears likely that Wilson will be the starter for the 2024 season. This has led many pundits to speculate whether Steelers Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith will devise creative plays for the athletic backup quarterback Fields.

There is a belief among some that the Steelers will incorporate special package plays for Fields into their offense. In an interview with Steelers.com reporter Missi Matthews, Smith was asked if he had any plans to implement special packages for Fields.

“It’s too early. Both those guys, they're playing quarterback, they're out here competing. We know where we're at in the part of the year, we're playing football in shorts. We're trying to improve and getting to know everybody and getting themselves, getting the chemistry with everyone else on the offense. It will be a fun time in Latrobe, watching those guys compete."

The way the Steelers have handled their quarterback competition makes sense. Wilson is an established veteran with an impressive NFL resume. At 35 years old, he still appears to have quality football left in him. Wilson is a nine-time Pro Bowler and former Super Bowl champion. However, he joins the Steelers after two challenging seasons with the Denver Broncos.

The Broncos had high hopes for Wilson when they signed him to a massive contract. Unfortunately, he did not live up to the expectations, winning just 11 games in two seasons. Despite this, in 2023, he still managed to throw for 26 touchdowns and only eight interceptions. His refusal to rework his contract led to him being benched at the end of the season and ultimately, the Broncos paying millions to release him. If Wilson starts and can replicate his 2023 performance with the Steelers in 2024, the team's offense will receive a significant upgrade. 

Steelers Would Be Wise To Max Out Justin Fields In 2024

Having Fields on the roster as a dynamic talent makes sense for creating special package plays.

Fields is one of the best mobile quarterbacks in the league and an incredible athlete. With an improved offensive line, the Steelers are eager to return to a dominant running style. Using Fields in that regard would make sense.

Adding Fields to the mix poses an additional threat for defenses to prepare for. Steelers' opponents have already started strategizing against these potential Fields packages. Steelers fans are eager to see Fields integrated into the offense in 2024 due to his dominance as a runner. While he also possesses good arm talent, he occasionally makes questionable decisions. It will be interesting to see what special packages, if created, would consist of, considering Fields' ability to throw a great deep ball and his dangerous mobility.

Having both Wilson and Fields in the quarterback room in 2024 makes the Steelers a much stronger team. While Smith is not revealing any details about special packages, it appears to be something the organization is considering. It seems likely that at several points in 2024, the Steelers will utilize Fields in unique packages. However, Smith is keeping his plans under wraps for now.

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