Steelers' Mike Tomlin Rumored To Have Secret Plan For QB2 Against Ravens: "Planning To Start [Justin] Fields"

When the Pittsburgh Steelers made it known they were getting two capable quarterbacks on their roster for the 2024 season in Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, it surely started a big debate. Pundits argued over which quarterback was better suited to help the Steelers win games in 2024. Fields got the nod to start the first six games as Wilson recovered from a calf injury. Fields performed respectably, leading the Steelers to a 4-2 record, but Mike Tomlin made the bold decision to start Wilson once he was healthy. At first, Wilson seemed like the perfect fit, bringing poise and efficiency to the offense.

However, as the season progressed, cracks began to show. After a promising start, Wilson and the Steelers stumbled into a four-game losing streak, raising concerns about his ability to lead the team in high-pressure situations. His performance dipped noticeably, with costly turnovers and inconsistent play becoming more frequent. Despite flashes of brilliance, the overall regression has put the Steelers in a precarious spot heading into the playoffs.

Steelers insider Joe Starkey has suggested that Tomlin may have Wilson on a very short leash in the Wild Card playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday. With so much on the line, Tomlin might not hesitate to turn to Fields if Wilson struggles early. The decision underscores the high stakes of playoff football and the Steelers' desire to make the most of their two-quarterback dynamic, even if it means making a drastic change mid-game.

"Mike Tomlin isn’t exactly professing tons of confidence in 'Mr. Unlimited' at the moment," Starkey said. "His comments make it seem like if Tomlin wants Russ to cook at all, it’s nothing more than scrambled eggs and toast."

Wilson has been taking far too many sacks, struggling to make veteran-level decisions, and failing to adjust at the line with effective audibles. As a result, the offense has often been forced to rely on low-percentage throws just to keep drives alive. At 36 years old, Wilson’s mobility isn’t what it once was, and his limitations in the pocket have become more apparent as the season has progressed.

This is where Fields could provide a much-needed spark, according to Starkey. Fields’ athleticism, mobility, and ability to extend plays outside the pocket could offer the Steelers a dynamic edge against a tough Ravens defense. If Wilson continues to falter, Fields might be the key to unlocking the offense and keeping Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes alive.

"I have to believe that Tomlin is ready to go to his bullpen early," Starkey said. "If I didn’t know better, I’d think — based on his comments — that he’s secretly planning to start Fields."

During the 19-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, it became painfully clear just how limited Wilson’s mobility has become. While he can still scramble for the occasional solid gain, he’s essentially a sitting duck when the pocket collapses. There were multiple moments in that game where Fields’ athleticism and ability to escape pressure could have turned broken plays into 10+ yard gains.

Steelers' Mike Tomlin Should Seriously Consider Starting Justin Fields Against Baltimore

Inserting Fields into the game isn’t without risk, but it might be one Tomlin and the Steelers have to take if Wilson struggles early against the Ravens. The weather forecast isn’t doing Wilson any favors either, with reports suggesting potential snowfall and wind gusts reaching up to 15 miles per hour. Those conditions aren’t ideal for a quarterback already struggling to avoid sacks and make quick decisions under pressure.

With the weather looking grim and the Steelers’ run game faltering once again, Tomlin might need to seriously consider giving Fields significant playing time—or even starting him outright. While benching Wilson seems unlikely given Tomlin’s loyalty to veterans, the possibility can’t be dismissed entirely. 

Steeler Nation is holding its breath, eager to see if Fields can provide the spark needed to finally end Pittsburgh’s playoff drought on Saturday against the Ravens.

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