NFL Exec: Russell Wilson Could Be Cut by Steelers If Outperformed by Justin Fields

Paul KasabianFeatured Columnist IIMarch 20, 2024

John Fisher/Getty Images

One NFL executive believes that the Pittsburgh Steelers could move on from Russell Wilson before the season if Justin Fields outplays him in training camp.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter relayed that information on NFL Live (h/t Ross McCorkle of Steelers Depot).

“There’s no commitment, obligation, loyalty to any of these guys,” Schefter said. “They didn’t pay much for either one of them. I even had an executive say if Justin Fields outplayed him, Russell Wilson, during training camp, they could see them moving on from him before the season.”

As Schefter noted, the Steelers didn’t break the bank for either signal-caller.

Pittsburgh signed Wilson to a one-year, $1.2 million deal after the Broncos released him (they still owe him nearly $40 million in guaranteed money). The Chicago Bears traded Fields to the Steelers for a 2025 conditional sixth-round pick. He has one year left on his rookie deal.

However, Schefter also noted on NFL Live that the Steelers “have the luxury of letting this play out during camp and doing whatever is best for that football team.”

In theory, the exec’s comments make sense. Simply put, the Steelers aren’t committed to either player after this year. They have a window now with a competitive roster that just managed a 10-win season and playoff berth despite mostly subpar quarterback play. So it’s logical to start the best player, hope for the best in 2024 and keep figuring out a solution for a long-term answer at the position.

With his experience and resume, though, it’s clear why Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowler, is getting the first crack at QB1. However, it remains to be seen if it will stay that way throughout the season.