NFL Rumors: Steelers ‘Open-Minded’ on Justin Fields Catching Russell Wilson for QB1

Timothy Rapp@@TRappaRTFeatured Columnist IVJuly 28, 2024

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There isn’t a more fascinating position battle in the NFL this summer than the quarterback competition between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields in Pittsburgh.

Head coach Mike Tomlin said in March that the veteran Wilson would have “pole position” in that battle, but Fields is going to have a genuine shot to win the starting gig.

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, “Fields definitely has work to do to catch Wilson in the race for the starting job, but the Steelers are open-minded about his ability to do so. The important thing to keep in mind here is that the Steelers have no prior connection to either of these quarterbacks and no compelling financial commitment that would lead them to favor one over the other. So when they say it’s an open competition and Fields has a chance, believe them.”

The Steelers completely reworked their quarterback room this offseason, signing Wilson and trading for Fields after years of mediocre quarterback play following Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement.

Wilson brings plenty of pedigree as a nine-time Pro Bowler and one-time champion, but he’s struggled in recent years. Fields, meanwhile, is one of the most exciting players in football, but he has struggled with consistency and needs to grow as a pocket passer.

The Steelers will be hoping one of them clearly seizes the job this summer. In that regard, Fields will be given a real shot.