Cam Newton Seriously Believes Steelers' Justin Fields Can Be Pittsburgh's Josh Allen Or Lamar Jackson

The Pittsburgh Steelers brought in two capable starting quarterbacks in the 2024 offseason. It started with the decision to sign Russell Wilson to a one-year veteran deal, followed by a trade to acquire Justin Fields. Wilson’s calf injury opened the door for Fields to start the first six games of the season, and he impressed by leading the team to a 4-2 record. His strong performance gave fans hope, but when Wilson returned to full health, Mike Tomlin made the unpopular decision to bench Fields in favor of the veteran.

Wilson did a solid job early in his return, but his performance in the last three games has raised concerns among Steelers fans about his future with the team. While the team remains on the fence, some are questioning whether extending him beyond 2024 is the right move. Wilson’s inconsistencies have only fueled these debates, especially with the Steelers’ offense failing to fully click under his leadership in recent weeks.

Cam Newton weighed in on the situation during a Friday appearance on First Take. When asked whether the Steelers should bring Wilson back for 2025 and beyond, Newton didn’t hold back. He argued that the Steelers should move forward with Fields, who he believes has the potential to do what quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson have done for their respective teams.

"No, but you bring back Justin Fields though," Newton said. "You develop him the right way though. Father time ain’t on our side. He ain’t no spring chicken."

It once seemed like a given that the Steelers and Wilson would be together beyond 2024, but that conversation has now shifted. At 36 years old, Wilson’s recent struggles have raised concerns among both fans and likely the organization. 

Meanwhile, Fields, at 25, may not have fully lived up to the high expectations set for him, but he remains a raw talent with immense potential—if he can find a way to put it all together.

"Can Justin Fields do what Josh Allen does? Lamar Jackson, like his ceiling," Newton said. "Has he shown it consistently? No, but can he give you what those guys can? Yes. Develop him in a way. He hasn’t gotten that opportunity."

Comparing a quarterback who has struggled to win games for most of his career to two of the league's best is certainly a tall task. However, Fields did show promise during his first six games with the Steelers. What Newton is arguing is that Fields' ceiling is so much higher than Wilson's that it makes sense for Pittsburgh to go all in on him and invest in his development.

Steelers' Justin Fields Still Has An Insane Amount Of Potential

If Fields can put it all together, he has the potential to become one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league. His athleticism is remarkable, and his ability as a rusher is something that’s hard to ignore. While he’s occasionally struggled with consistency and making smart throws, his arm talent is evident. Unfortunately, that inconsistency has prevented him from earning a stable starting role so far.

The future of the Steelers' quarterback situation will be shaped after the 2024 season, and the team faces a difficult decision. A deep playoff run from Wilson could help reverse the narrative surrounding his recent struggles, while a blowout loss in the playoffs may signal the end of his time in Pittsburgh. The uncertainty surrounding the future will become clearer in the coming weeks as Steeler Nation awaits a better assessment.

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