Steelers’ Patrick Queen Issues Strong Advice To Pittsburgh Fans About The Offense

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a significant move this offseason by signing Patrick Queen to a three-year, $41 million deal. Queen, who spent four standout seasons with their rivals, the Baltimore Ravens, bolsters an already formidable defense. With this addition, the Steelers' defense is now among the highest-paid in the league, and many analysts expect it to be one of the top units in 2024.

While the defense looks promising, the offense has been a major concern through the first two preseason games. The 2023 season saw the offense struggle mightily, and there was hope for improvement in 2024. However, after managing just three points against mostly the Buffalo Bills' backups in a Week 2 preseason game, fans are once again worried.

On Wednesday, Queen addressed the media after practice and was asked about the offense's struggles. He urged Steelers fans to remain patient, emphasizing that it is only preseason and that concerns should not overshadow the potential for this unit.

"Different concepts. There’s always something new every day. I know everybody got their own perception of Arthur Smith and the offense, but I just say hang in there."

The Steelers’ offense was anticipated to make significant strides in 2024, largely due to the addition of new quarterbacks. The team brought in Russell Wilson and traded for Justin Fields, with Wilson favored to start. Many believe his arrival could elevate the offense to new heights. Additionally, new Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith is expected to play a key role in revitalizing the unit.

In the second preseason game against the Bills, Wilson and Fields both played the entire game but managed only three points, which raised concerns among fans. Queen advised patience, suggesting that fans should give the new offense time to gel. He also shared his thoughts on how the rumors of new additions to the offense might impact the team moving forward.

"It’s gonna be worth the show. They got everything they need in that room. If we add something, we add something. If we don’t, we don’t. I just think that the guys that’s in this room right now can take care of business."

Wilson played five drives, completing 80% of his passes for only 47 yards. He was sacked three times and managed just one first down. 

His performance was disappointing, exacerbated by the lack of protection from the offensive line. After the game, Smith revealed that he had intentionally limited Wilson’s play due to concerns about his sore calf injury.

Steelers' Justin Fields Had Some Very Exciting Moments Against The Bills

Smith also noted that he used different play calls for Fields compared to Wilson. Fields brought excitement to fans, showcasing glimpses of the offense’s potential with him at the helm. Although he did not lead a touchdown drive, he had several thrilling moments for Steeler Nation.

One standout play had Fields evading pressure, buying time, and connecting with Dez Fitzpatrick on the sideline for a notable first down. Fields completed 11 of 17 passes for 92 yards and rushed eight times for 42 yards, leading the team in rushing.

One play that sparked significant debate on social media was a deep ball thrown by Fields intended for TJ Luther. The throw has been widely discussed regarding who was at fault for its incompletion. 

The general consensus is that Fields delivered a good pass, but Luther jumped too early instead of running through the ball. Had the pass been completed, the perception of Fields’ performance would likely be much more positive, and the Steelers might have defeated the Bills.

While the offense has been disappointing so far, it's important to remember that it's only preseason. With new personnel, an entirely new system, and many new players, it will take time for the Steelers to fully gel on offense. 

Additionally, Smith is holding back some elements of the playbook, and preseason games can often distort reality. The Steelers aren't panicking over the offensive struggles, and fans shouldn't either.

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