The Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback room underwent a complete overhaul this offseason. They started by signing veteran quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum. This move upset their young quarterback Kenny Pickett, who requested a trade. The Steelers granted his wish, ending the Pickett era in Pittsburgh.
Chaz Palla / TRIB LIVE
Steelers' Justin Fields (2) watches Russell Wilson (3) throw the football at Organized Team Activities.
Next, the Steelers traded for the young and raw quarterback, Justin Fields. In addition to these changes, they hired former Los Angeles Chargers Pass Game Specialist, Tom Arth as their new quarterbacks coach. Arth comes highly praised for his ability to develop quarterbacks, having thrived in his role with Justin Herbert. Many Steelers fans are excited about his arrival.
As it stands, Wilson is set to be the starting quarterback. However, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin has made it clear that Fields will have a real chance to compete for the job. While it seems unlikely Fields will take the job from Wilson, anything can happen, especially if Wilson struggles early.
Justin Fields calls new Steelers QB coach Tom Arth the most detail-oriented coach he’s been around pic.twitter.com/pB2D0Rjyhz
— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) June 12, 2024
Fields spoke to the media on Wednesday, telling Chris Adamski of Trib Live that Arth is an incredible coach and one of the best he has had.
"Tom is great. Just his attention to detail, the way he comes in each and every day, comes in, the same guy every day, and to be honest, I don't know if I've had a coach as detailed as Tom. He is very detailed in terms of practice and sending us the info. Breaking down each and every play.”
Fields repeatedly emphasized how detailed Arth is throughout his interview. He expressed excitement about continuing to work with Arth as his quarterbacks coach.
“Really just focusing on the details, to be honest with you. I think that is the thing that sets him apart. He pushes us to work hard and of course, that is good for us… He has been great so far. Excited to allow our relationship to grow and excited to work with him.”
When the Steelers traded for Fields, they made it clear that Wilson is the likely starter. Pittsburgh told Fields they want him to use this time to develop and learn under Wilson. The Steelers seem fairly confident that Fields has the potential to be the face of their franchise in the future. However, for now, they want him to learn and improve under a former Super Bowl champion quarterback.
Seahawks.com
Quarterback Russell Wilson after winning Super Bowl XLVIII with the Seattle Seahawks.
Fields' athletic abilities are undeniable. He is one of the most dangerous and best running quarterbacks in the NFL. However, in his three seasons in the NFL, Fields has thrown 40 passing touchdowns and 30 interceptions. He was in a poor offensive system with a lot of changing coaches during his tenure with the Chicago Bears.
Steelers' Justin Fields Could Be The Future Of The Franchise
The Steelers believe Fields is in a better environment now, and with Arth coaching him, there is a lot of excitement about his development and future. It's no secret what makes Fields such an exciting prospect. However, at this point in his career, the league seems to view him as a backup quarterback.
Sebastian Foltz / Post-Gazette
Steelers quarterbacks Justin Fields and Russell Wilson talk during OTAs.
Fields is eager to prove he can start and perform effectively in the NFL. He has no interest in just sitting back and being the backup. He is determined to give everything to beat out Wilson and win the job. Either way, it appears the Steelers' quarterback room is in a very positive place.
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