The Pittsburgh Steelers have one of the most talked about quarterback situations in the NFL as the organization continues to attempt to bring back either Russell Wilson or Justin Fields. The decision is still up in the air, however it has been reported that the organization is hoping to move forward with Fields. The young quarterback is expected to have a strong market in free agency, which is why it is crucial that the Steelers are able to ink a new deal with Fields before he is able to talk with other teams.
Sebastian Foltz / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson gets ready to unleash a pass as Justin Fields looks on during a 2024 practice at the UPMC Sports Complex in Pittsburgh, PA.
A large part of the fan base wants to see Fields back in Pittsburgh as the starter in 2025, and it seems like the organization is thinking that way as well. Re-signing Fields over Wilson makes the most sense, especially because of his athleticism and mobility. There are also some external options for the organization to consider, but Cam Heyward quickly shut that idea down on the most recent episode of his podcast Not Just Football With Cam Heyward. Heyward was asked about the team getting rid of both Wilson and Fields, and he had some strong opinions.
"I hope not, I don't like the other choices," Heyward said.
Heyward clearly wants to see either Fields or Wilson back in Pittsburgh, and it should be reasonable to assume his top choice would be Fields. Wilson ended the 2024 season on a bad note, and it became obvious the offense could not compete with the best teams in the league with Wilson running the show.
Sebastian Foltz / Post-Gazette
Steelers' Justin Fields arrives at training camp in Latrobe ahead of the 2024 season.
Heyward did not even want to entertain the idea of any external options being the starting quarterback for Pittsburgh during the 2025 season. Some of the choices that have been discussed include Daniel Jones, Aaron Rodgers, Sam Darnold, or even Derek Carr if he ends up being released by the New Orleans Saints.
None of those options seem like a sure thing. Jones and Darnold have been sporadic at best throughout their careers, while Rodgers and Carr are coming off of some of their worst seasons. Carr had an injury-riddled 2024 campaign, while Rodgers just did not look like his old self. Heyward is the longest-tenured Steeler, and he is the clear leader of the defense. His voice certainly carries some weight, so hopefully the franchise is able to listen to him.
Fields is the only option at quarterback that seems like it would be more than a temporary fix. The young quarterback has the potential to be the future of the franchise offensively, as long as the coaching staff gives him enough opportunity moving forward. The Steelers seem to be actively trying to keep Fields in Pittsburgh, but it may be difficult to agree on a deal prior to free agency opening up.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Justin Fields warms up pregame before a Week 15 matchup against the Eagles in 2024.
Steelers' Justin Fields Fits The Mold Of A Successful Starting Quarterback In Today's NFL
All of the best teams in the NFL have a starting quarterback who can use their legs to extend plays and improvise. None of the external options the Steelers have at quarterback can provide that, which makes it a no-brainer to re-sign the younger quarterback to be the starter. Fields' dual-threat ability makes him a nightmare for some opposing defenses, and with Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith being a run-first play-caller, Fields should be the obvious choice to be the next starter in Pittsburgh.
A backup for Fields should be a mid-round rookie that the Steelers feel like can turn into a special player. The quarterback class in 2025 is not all that impressive, but there can be some value found on Day 2 or Day 3 of the event.
What do you think about Heyward's thoughts on the quarterback position in Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments below!
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