Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin Continues To See Steady Demeanor In His Rising QB: "I Didn't Feel Any Blink In Justin [Fields]"

The Pittsburgh Steelers got the 2024 season off to a strong start, going 3-0. That win streak came to an end with a loss to the Indianapolis Colts, 27-24, in Week 4. The loss immediately raised questions about the future of quarterback Justin Fields. Despite taking over for an injured Russell Wilson just prior to the Week 1 kickoff, Fields has never been officially named QB1. 

Head Coach Mike Tomlin has taken a week-to-week stance on the Wilson/Fields saga, announcing Fields as the official starter almost just before each game. Fields seems to have been on a short leash from Tomlin and Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith; however, it appears that they are letting that leash out bit by bit. In his weekly press conference, Tomlin indicated that he has seen weekly improvements from Fields.  

"We were down multiple scores in the fourth quarter, but I didn't feel any blink. In particular, I didn't feel any blink in Justin. We've talked about his steady demeanor in recent weeks, the things that I've grown to know and understand about him is really on display in moments like that. As I've mentioned in here several times over the last several weeks, you really get an opportunity to develop a relationship in the midst of adversity and competition and I'm not trying to microwave our relationship, if you will. Being in the circumstances, it's an opportunity for him to get to know me, me to get to know him, and to fight and fight together."

Fields showed a steady demeanor against the Colts, despite being unable to pull out the win. The Steelers got down 14-0 almost immediately and could only kick a single field goal before the half. They went into the locker room at the break, 17-3. 

They obviously made some adjustments, and while it still took the offense time to get going, they did mount a comeback. They scored 21 points to the Colts' 10 in the second half. Unfortunately, they fell just short with a botched snap between Fields and rookie center Zach Frazier. In the same press conference, Tomlin was asked about Fields' managing to stage a touchdown for touchdown comeback and if it answered any lingering questions about his ability. 

"I've speculated about some things I've seen from him, and there are some components about his football and competitive personality that are really likable, and I talked about him last week. I just think when you're in those moments, and you get an opportunity to show who you are, in those moments, there's less speculation. Some things that I was speculating about somewhat last week, about his steady demeanor, about his competes, and so forth, just got solidified and verified with the challenges that we faced last week."

Tomlin has still not said when Wilson will be ready to return from this lingering calf injury. He has also not said how long he will allow Fields to start without officially naming him the starter. 

The Steelers will face the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5 back in Pittsburgh at Acrisure Stadium. Fields will get another shot under center which gives Tomlin a chance to see how he bounces back from the adversity of a loss. 

Steelers' Justin Fields And Russell Wilson Have Provided A Two-Pronged Approach To Leadership

At first glance, Wilson and Fields couldn't be more different. One is nearing the end of his career, while the other is just hoping to get started. Wilson was considered a mobile quarterback who could extend plays with his legs. That skill helped him win a Super Bowl. Fields takes that athleticism to the next level. If he can get open space, he might be one of the biggest threats ever to take the field. 

Recently, Fields was applauded for being a silent leader on the team. He was seen helping a defensive teammate with his coverage. Wilson, on the other hand, has stepped up as a loud and boisterous leader. They may have different styles, but both positively impact this team and the city. 

What do you think about the way Fields led the team back during the fourth quarter against the Colts? Click to comment below. 

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