Steelers' Justin Fields’ Biggest Struggle Has Negatively Impacted Him In Pittsburgh: "He's Still Working On Processing The Game"

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a new look at quarterback going into the 2024 season. Russell Wilson was signed in free agency and he is the presumed starter, but Pittsburgh also acquired Justin Fields via trade. Fields has some developing to do, and learning behind Wilson could be what is best for his career at the moment. Fields will get the opportunity to compete for the starting job in training camp, but it is extremely unlikely that the 13-year veteran doesn't start for Pittsburgh.

Fields’ career began with the Chicago Bears, where he was the primary starter over the last three seasons. His time there was filled of ups and downs, at times showing superstar potential and other times looking like one of the worst quarterbacks in the league. He is still young, and has plenty of time to develop. Steelers insider Mike DeFabo recently made a radio appearance on 93.7 The Fan on Saturday, where he shared what has been Fields biggest struggle so far in Pittsburgh.

"I think if you go to training camp, one thing I would watch is seven shots and I would watch how Justin Fields processes the game. I think that right now he's still working on processing the game more quickly, knowing his reads, getting to those reads more quickly. I think that just the speed of the game is definitely affecting him at this point. Now, that could change once they put on pads, and I think that's where Justin Fields has an opportunity to maybe turn this into a competition. He should get an extended run in preseason games, and I think that's when his athleticism and his arm really show off."

It's important to note that these observations come from minicamp and organized team activities. This is when the offense is just getting installed, and players aren't in full pads. It's hard to take anything too seriously that comes out from these practices, as they aren't anywhere close to what goes on at training camp.

It's completely understandable as to why Fields would be showing signs of struggling during minicamp and OTAs. He is coming into a new team, with a completely different offensive system from what he had in Chicago. It's going to take him time to adjust and get his feet under him. He also has to form new relationships with his offensive line and targets, which takes time.

All eyes will be on Fields during training camp and Pittsburgh's preseason games. Most fans have accepted that Wilson will likely be the starter quarterback. However, many are wishing for Fields to figure it out and prove he is a starting quarterback in this league. He is still young, and has the potential to be the Steelers franchise quarterback going forward.

Even if Fields doesn't win the starting job, he may still see the field a decent amount. He is too good of an athlete to have sitting on the sideline, Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith will find a way to get him involved. This would likely happen with specific packages that showcase Fields abilities.

Steelers' Russell Wilson Has A Lot To Lose During 2024 Season

Wilson is coming off of two rocky years with the Denver Broncos. He needs a career resurgence, and the Steelers have given him an opportunity. This could be his last shot to start in the league. Now, he has Fields right on his heels going into the 2024 season. Wilson needs to start the season in a strong manner and prove he can play the way he used to. 

Fields and Wilson seem to have a good relationship, and there isn't any bad blood between the two despite the fact they are competing against one another. Wilson is a mentor to Fields, who both play the game in a similar way.

What do you think about DeFabo's comments about Fields? Let us know in the comments below!

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