Steelers' Risky Coaching Move Involving Justin Fields Draws Criticism From Kurt Warner

The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2024 season was expected to produce better quarterback play. The Steelers have two capable quarterbacks in Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Wilson has taken over as the starter, but against the Cleveland Browns, Steelers fans got to see some of Fields in special packages. The decision to involve Fields certainly sparked controversy, with some fans loving it and others criticizing it.

One of the more talked-about risky plays was when the Steelers allowed Fields to throw in the snow on third and four. Fields’ pass was intended for George Pickens, but it sailed far off target, missing the mark completely. This bold move was particularly questionable given the weather conditions and the critical nature of the game. The decision to let Fields attempt a throw in such a tense moment raised eyebrows.

To make matters worse, a bad punt from Steelers punter Corliss Waitman essentially sealed their fate. The Browns capitalized on the short field and went on to score, taking the lead and eventually winning the game 24-19. Former star quarterback and now NFL analyst, Kurt Warner absolutely hated the Steelers' choice to let Fields throw at such a critical point in the game, believing it was a mistake that contributed to their loss.

"I definitely didn't like the third-down pass attempt with Justin Fields," Warner said. "You've got a guy that has been your thrower and has made those throws. I don't like putting a quarterback in and then asking him to do that when he hasn't been in the game."

The debate between Fields and Wilson comes down to weighing their respective pros and cons. Fields offers youth, mobility, and a legitimate threat with his legs, bringing explosive potential to the offense. However, the Steelers don't fully trust him to call audibles at the line or consistently throw deep. 

That lack of trust is precisely what frustrates Pittsburgh fans about letting Fields throw on a critical third down in adverse weather conditions. If the coaching staff was hesitant to rely on him earlier in the year, why put him in a tough spot off the bench to make a low-percentage throw in such unfavorable circumstances? It simply wasn’t a wise decision.

Wilson, on the other hand, has undeniably opened up the passing attack with his deep ball, but he’s no longer the mobile quarterback he once was. At times, he becomes a sitting duck in the pocket, limiting his ability to evade pressure and hurting the offense's rhythm. His lack of mobility creates challenges for the team, especially when the offensive line struggles. While Wilson brings experience and a polished passing game, his physical limitations are evident at this stage in his career.

Steelers Likely To Continue To Use Russell Wilson And Justin Fields

The Steelers coaching staff is working to maximize the strengths of both quarterbacks, but that balancing act isn’t easy. Fans are divided on whether the team is making the right calls with such contrasting styles of play. For now, the focus seems to be on trying to get the best of both worlds, though it’s clear there’s still plenty of work to do in finding a cohesive offensive identity.

Steelers fans are eager to see Fields’ packages utilized more frequently. While the third-down pass didn’t pan out, it was Fields’ explosive 30-yard run that helped ignite the Steelers’ first touchdown drive of the game. Incorporating both quarterbacks into the offense clearly has its advantages, adding an element of unpredictability, but it’s not without its risks.

The Steelers tried to outsmart the Browns by letting Fields throw when Cleveland was likely expecting a run, but the gamble backfired. That failed play became a turning point, playing a significant role in the Steelers’ narrow loss to the Browns. While the potential for a dynamic two-quarterback system exists, the coaching staff must find a way to deploy it more effectively in high-stakes situations.

#SteelerNation