Steelers' New Offense Doesn't Play To Justin Fields' Strengths: "Accuracy Is Going To Be Paramount"

The Pittsburgh Steelers are likely going to see improved play from the quarterback position in 2024 no matter what. It doesn't matter if it's Russell Wilson or Justin Fields, it will be hard to see a worse quarterback situation than what the Steelers had in 2023. Wilson is the presumed starter for the 2024 season, but Fields is expected to be given a chance to compete during training camp. It's hard to evaluate what the new offense will look like at this point, since all spring practices have been in shorts.

Despite spring practices not carrying much weight, some reports revolving around Fields have sparked some concern for fans. Insiders have discussed Fields' accuracy, stating that it has been inconsistent. On the most recent episode of the Chipped Ham And Football podcast, Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette shared just how important accuracy will be in Arthur Smith's offense. If this proves to be the case, Fields will need to become a more consistent passer if he plans to have success in Pittsburgh.

"Accuracy is going to be an important part of Arthur Smith's offense. If you're talking about utilizing the tight ends, theoretically using the middle of the field more, we're talking about passes that need to be accurate. You're fitting them into tight windows. Based on their wide receiver situation opposite of George Pickens - those guys are not combat-catch guys, they're not make-up-for-mistake guys. Accuracy is going to be paramount."

Accuracy is always important for an NFL quarterback, but it will be a focal point of the Steelers' offense in 2024. The main identity of Smith's scheme is the run game, and in order for that to be successful, he can't have inconsistencies in accuracy ruining drives. The Steelers also currently have one of the least talented wide receiver rooms in the league outside of George Pickens, which makes accuracy even more crucial.

Fields' accuracy is likely nothing to worry about, since he is getting used to a new offense, new coaches, and new teammates. His accuracy in a random practice in May or June might not be the number one thing on his mind. Players are shaking the rust of the offseason off, and getting back to their true form. Accuracy in spring practices isn't pivotal. Once the important days of training camp roll around however, it will become a major factor in deciding the starting quarterback.

In order for Fields to become the starter in Week 1, a ton of things need to go his way. Wilson needs to fail to meet every coach's expectations, and Fields need to play the best football of his career during the preseason. It is a long shot he'll grab ahold of the starting gig, but he is being given the chance to compete. He won't have a chance to become the starter if the accuracy issues continue.

Steelers' Justin Fields Must Find Consistency

Consistency has been something Fields has struggled with ever since entering the NFL during the 2021 season. He has shown flashes of being a superstar, but quickly brings everyone back to reality by making unnecessary bad plays. In his three seasons in the league, he has led the NFL at some point in fumbles and sacks. He has also thrown 30 interceptions in 38 starts. If he wants to have a future as a starting quarterback, he must eliminate the negative plays.

Consistency and confidence are a package deal. If Fields can enter training camp with the right mindset, and perform well, his confidence will grow. Even if he can't beat Wilson out for the starting job, stringing good practices together will force his confidence to grow and allow him to be ready whenever his number is called. Even if Fields begins the year as the backup, he will likely still be on the field occasionally due to his athleticism. He is expected to be a contributor for Pittsburgh, regardless of how the quarterback position ends up.

What do you think about the concerns of Fields' accuracy? Comment below.

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