Steelers Getting Comfortable With Ditching Russell Wilson For Rising Star Justin Fields

The Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback battle initially seemed to be Russell Wilson's job to lose. Many pundits doubted Justin Fields could beat out Wilson in the offseason, but Wilson's calf injury has changed the situation. Wilson has been limited for most of camp, starting by missing practices and slowly working back to full health. This has given Fields extra opportunities to show the Steelers' coaching staff what the offense could look like with him on the field.

Much has been made of Fields' performance. He's very athletic and dangerous with the football in his hands. Reports indicate that Fields is gaining traction and opening eyes within the organization after his impressive showing at camp. NFL insider Adam Schefter joined The Pat McAfee Show to share his perspective on the Steelers' quarterback situation.

Schefter believes the starting position is still Wilson's to lose, but Fields is quickly climbing the ranks. However, he thinks it's too early to say Fields has fully closed the gap until Wilson returns to full health.

“Again, we have to see what Russell is like when he gets back, but Russell had that pole position per Mike Tomlin. Let’s see what happens when Russell gets back, but here’s the thing... Justin Fields has gotten better and better every practice. They love the guy.”

Based on Schefter's statements, it appears the Steelers are becoming more comfortable with the idea of Fields potentially taking the starting job. Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin gave Wilson the initial edge due to his resume, stating it was the right thing to do. 

However, Tomlin has made it clear that the team will start whoever is the better option, regardless of fairness. Fields has been making the most of his extra reps, impressing the coaching staff with his performance.

“He’s a natural leader and he’s got support, but I still think when Russell gets back, he has pole position. When someone is not practicing, it gives someone else the opportunity. Justin Fields by all accounts so far has come in and taken advantage of that and impressed them with the way that he’s played.”

When Fields played for the Chicago Bears, he passed for 40 touchdowns but also threw 30 interceptions. While he excelled as a dual-threat quarterback with his running ability, he struggled to win games. 

Despite playing in a poor system, the Bears had a hard time moving on from Fields due to his leadership skills and the strong support from his teammates. These qualities are already becoming evident early in his time with the Steelers.

“That’s not surprising, the people in Chicago love the guy and now he’s getting the chance to impress people in Pittsburgh. We will see what Russ has to say about that when he gets back from his calf injury.”

Steelers' Russell Wilson Appears To Be Back At Full Strength

It appears Wilson is returning to full participation, and Steelers fans are eager to see how he performs. Once Wilson is taking full reps, it will be easier to assess the true gap in the quarterback battle. Both quarterbacks have their strengths and concerns. Wilson struggled in his last two seasons with the Denver Broncos, and at 35 years old, many wonder how much he has left.

Fields wasn't perfect with the Bears, but his potential is sky-high. He's the more exciting option due to his youth, while Wilson might be the best choice for immediate wins. The Steelers face a good problem at the quarterback position.

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