The Pittsburgh Steelers have been the topic of conversation in nearly every form of NFL media due to their quarterback situation. Head Coach Mike Tomlin let it be known during his weekly press conference that Justin Fields and Russell Wilson would be competing for the starting job throughout the week of preparation for the New York Jets -- and it seems Wilson has won the job for the foreseeable future. Tomlin hasn't announced himself that Wilson will be starting, but George Pickens did let it slip while speaking to the media.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson and Justin Fields talk while they get warmed up for camp.
There has been plenty of debate regarding which quarterback should be the starter in Pittsburgh. Fields has done a nice job throughout the first six games of the season, but the plan was always for Wilson to be the starter. It is a bit surprising to see Fields get replaced while leading the team to a 4-2 record, but many believe Wilson will elevate the offense in ways that Fields hasn't been able to.
Former Steelers running back, Le'Veon Bell took to social media on Friday to make a case for Wilson being the starting quarterback.
has nothing to do with “prime” or not .. sometimes good football comes with reads & timing … tbh, Russel Wilson TODAY is a better pro style QB, & that’s what pickens/WR’s need .. fields is more of a playmaking QB .. it’s efficient , but as a wideout, you want the pro style QB .. https://t.co/bifUnGQGru
— Le'Veon Bell (@LeVeonBell) October 18, 2024
A group that has been under a lot of scrutiny so far during the 2024 season has been the wide receivers in Pittsburgh. Pickens has had some good performances, but he has also had his usual moments where he has shown a lack of effort. Calvin Austin III has been the second-most productive receiver on the team, but he has only hauled in 10 passes. The production seen from other receivers, like Scotty Miller and Van Jefferson, hasn't been inspiring.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Russell Wilson and Calvin Austin III during training camp in 2024.
Pittsburgh's wide receivers have been struggling to get open, but maybe with Wilson's leadership and efficiency in reading a defense, that will improve. He is one of the more experienced quarterbacks in the league and should be able to hit his guys in time and in a good spot for them to go to work after the catch.
Fields hasn't necessarily been bad as a passer. He has missed some throws, but he has only turned it over once through the air. The fourth-year quarterback has completed over 65 percent of his passes, but he is averaging under 200 yards per game. The hope with Wilson is that he will be able to stretch the field more and get more production through the air. In turn, this will open up the run game, which will lead to a more productive offense as a whole.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' George Pickens during practice ahead of a Week 7 matchup with the New York Jets in 2024.
Steelers' George Pickens Should Benefit From Russell Wilson Becoming The Starter
Pickens is easily the best receiver on Pittsburgh's roster, but he hasn't been producing like a number one option. Through six games, he has just 26 receptions for 363 yards, and he hasn't found the end zone yet. Bell believes Pickens is in a situation where his numbers will skyrocket once Wilson gets under center.
george pickens stats will sky rocket with russell wilson starting .. just remember this tweet
— Le'Veon Bell (@LeVeonBell) October 18, 2024
One thing that Wilson has been known for throughout his career is his ability to throw the deep ball, and Pickens is one of the best deep threats in the league. The duo should be able to stretch the field for multiple explosive plays, which is exactly what Pittsburgh's offense has been needing. With Wilson taking the reigns, the coaching staff may even open the playbook up a little more to highlight the passing game.
What do you think about Bell's thoughts? Let us know in the comments below!
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