The Pittsburgh Steelers have had one of the more interesting quarterback situations in the NFL during the 2024 season. The offense has seen success with both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, but it seems like Head Coach Mike Tomlin has decided on moving forward with Wilson as the full-time starter at the position. Fields will become one of the most reliable backups in the league, and his athleticism could certainly be used at certain times and in certain situations.
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Steelers' QBs Russell Wilson and Justin Fields before their preseason game versus the Bills.
There has been speculation about certain packages being available for Fields, specifically ones down around the red zone, and even in short yardage situations that may call for the quarterback to run the ball. This would keep defenses on their toes, especially since Fields proved he can throw the ball effectively during the first six games of the season. NFL insider Jay Glazer spoke on the pregame show on Fox Sunday morning, and he shared a recent conversation he had with Tomlin.
"Just got off the phone with Mike Tomlin" Glazer said. "He said Justin Fields actually tweaked his hamstring late this week. Doesn't think he is going to be able to tomorrow night. Not sure yet, probably going to have to get a MRI after the game, so it's going to be all Russell Wilson. But this was a game that they were kind of hoping to use that two-headed quarterback duo."
During Wilson's first start in Week 7, it was known there was a possibility that Fields would come on the field to run the ball. That didn't happen, but according to Glazer, Tomlin wanted to see what that looked like this week against the New York Giants. Unfortunately, fans will have to wait at least another week to see Fields.
AP Photo / Gene J. Puskar
Steelers' Russell Wilson and Justin Fields talk while they get warmed up for camp.
Steelers' Justin Fields Must Return To Full Health
The Steelers have two starting-caliber quarterbacks in Wilson and Fields, but Fields has had a bigger sample size so far in 2024. He went 4-2 in the games he started, and was extremely effective with his legs while being serviceable as a passer.
Wilson is the opposite as an extremely proficient passer, but his mobility at this point in his career has been questioned. Wilson has had one good game for Pittsburgh; really it was one good half. If he can't continue to be successful as the season moves forward, the Steelers could be in trouble if Fields' hamstring injury lingers.
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Steelers' Justin Fields throwing the football during OTAs in 2024.
Pittsburgh should know more about the severity of Fields' injury once he undergoes testing following the Week 8 matchup with the Giants. Thankfully, Pittsburgh has their bye week in Week 9 which will allow the team to get healthy.
What do you think about Fields' missing the Week 8 contest? Let us know in the comments below!
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