The Pittsburgh Steelers decided to shake up their quarterback room in the 2024 offseason. They signed Russell Wilson, traded for Justin Fields, and also brought in Kyle Allen. The plan was for Wilson to be the starter, but a calf injury forced him to miss six games. During Wilson's absence, Fields stepped in and led the Steelers to a 4-2 record, showcasing his ability to manage the offense effectively and make key plays when needed. His performance earned him respect from the coaching staff and fans in the Steel City.
Despite Fields' solid play, Head Coach Mike Tomlin opted to return to a healthy Wilson as the starting quarterback upon his return. As Wilson opened up the offense further, it became clear that he was regaining his former elite form, leaving little room for Fields to reclaim the starting role. The Steelers' decision to prioritize Wilson, given his experience and skills, has raised questions about the long-term implications for Fields and the team's overall quarterback situation.
Looking ahead, the Steelers face a significant decision regarding their quarterback allocation after the 2024 season. With both Wilson and Fields under contract for only the 2024 season, the organization will need to assess their future financial commitments. Insider Mark Kaboly has indicated a belief that the Steelers may lean towards not keeping Fields, which would signal a shift in their approach to building the team around Wilson.
"It's gonna be hard for Justin Fields to stay around here," Kaboly said on 93.7 The Fan's Morning Show. "Because there's gonna be a bunch of teams that are gonna be throwing money at him. I think the Colts will, I think the Panthers will... If you're considering moving forward with Russell Wilson here, it's gonna be hard for Justin Fields to come back."
Kaboly's analysis is compelling, particularly if the Steelers choose to extend Wilson after the 2024 season. Such an extension would significantly increase their financial commitment to Wilson, making it challenging to retain Fields as well.
With limited resources, the Steelers may find it impractical to keep two capable starting quarterbacks on the roster, especially at a high cost.
Steelers Will Have A Brutal Choice To Make At Quarterback After The 2024 Season
As Wilson approaches his 36th birthday in November, the contrast with Fields is striking. At just 25 years old, Fields represents a more exciting long-term option for the franchise. While Wilson may have only two to three seasons left in his prime, Fields could be positioned to lead the team for years to come. This creates a difficult dilemma for the Steelers, as they weigh the risks of relying on an aging quarterback while potentially letting go of a player who could be a cornerstone for their future.
The Steelers face a crucial decision as they look to maximize their current roster's window for success. As it stands, all signs point toward the team extending Wilson after the 2024 season. If that occurs, it seems likely that Fields' tenure in Pittsburgh may be limited to just one season.
During his time as the starter, Fields performed admirably, accounting for 10 touchdowns and showing improved ball protection compared to previous seasons. Reports indicated that when the Steelers acquired Fields, they emphasized the importance of allowing him time to learn and develop under Wilson’s guidance.
While this approach still holds potential, the likelihood of the Steelers retaining both quarterbacks beyond the 2024 season appears slim. As the offseason gets closer, it will be fascinating to see how the Steelers navigate the future of their quarterback position.
