The Pittsburgh Steelers made huge decisions in the 2024 offseason to bring in veteran Russell Wilson and a younger Justin Fields to compete for the starting quarterback job. Wilson initially won the role, but was sidelined by a calf injury, giving Fields the chance to step up. Fields led the team to a respectable 4-2 record during Wilson’s absence, raising questions about who should be the long-term starter. Once Wilson returned to full health, Head Coach Mike Tomlin decided to put him under center, and the veteran quarterback didn’t disappoint.
AP Photo / Gene J. Puskar
Steelers' Russell Wilson and Justin Fields talk while they get warmed up for camp.
In his first regular season game in the black and gold, Wilson started off slowly, but found his rhythm, completing 16 of 29 passes for 264 yards and two touchdowns. His performance helped the Steelers cruise to a 37-15 victory over the New York Jets, reinforcing Tomlin's decision to give him the starting role.
The entire team delivered an impressive showing, with Wilson's leadership providing the offensive spark they needed. Steelers fans were left optimistic about the direction of the season, and Tomlin’s faith in Wilson seemed well placed.
When it was announced that Wilson would start in Week 7, reports surfaced that the Steelers had plans to involve Fields in special packages. However, no such plays were used against the Jets. In his postgame press conference, Tomlin clarified that he never intended to utilize Fields in the game, stating he didn't feel the need to turn to the young quarterback at any point.
"I did not," Tomlin said when asked if he considered using Justin Fields in any situation.
The decision to stick with Wilson paid off as the Steelers secured a dominant win. Although Wilson started slowly, as expected after missing the entire 2024 season up until Week 7, he gradually shook off the rust.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Russell Wilson warms up before a preseason game against the Houston Texans.
His return to regular-season action gave the offense the boost it needed, and by the second half, the entire unit was clicking under his leadership.
Steelers' Mike Tomlin Deserves A Lot Of Credit For Lonely Choice To Start Russell Wilson
Leading up to the game against the Jets, reports suggested that Tomlin’s decision to start Wilson over Fields was a bold move. According to Tomlin’s close friend and NFL insider Jay Glazer, Tomlin admitted he had gone "lone ranger" in making the call, trusting his instincts despite the potential backlash. It was a risk, but one Tomlin was willing to take, confident he could handle the fallout if things went wrong.
USA Today
Steelers' Mike Tomlin stands on the sideline with Russell Wilson during an away game.
Ultimately, Tomlin's gamble proved wise. While Fields had played well in Wilson’s absence, it will be hard to switch back to him after the performance Wilson just delivered on Sunday Night Football in the Steel City.
The Steelers have not seen this level of quarterback play in quite some time, and if Wilson can string together more games like this, Pittsburgh has a legitimate shot at ending its playoff-win drought. Tomlin deserves a good bit of credit for having the guts to start Wilson despite the fact Fields was 4-2 as the starter.
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