The Pittsburgh Steelers made several major moves this offseason. They began by signing veteran quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum. Following that, they traded away former first-round pick Kenny Pickett and acquired Justin Fields.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson (3) and Justin Fields (2) getting warmed up before a practice.
The debate over which quarterback is best suited to start for the Steelers in 2024 has been intense. Analysts have weighed the pros and cons of Wilson versus Fields throughout the offseason. Mike Tomlin has made it clear that Wilson is the frontrunner, with Fields given a chance to compete. Wilson is the heavy favorite.
When training camp began, Wilson was sidelined for the first four practices due to a sore calf. The injury, which Wilson reportedly sustained while pushing a sled during conditioning drills, was more about caution given his age than a serious concern. This injury provided Fields with extra opportunities to showcase his skills.
Steelers insider Mark Kaboly appeared on 93.7 The Fan with Andrew Fillipponi and discussed the situation. Fillipponi speculated on how the Steelers could fairly evaluate Fields without naming him the starter. Kaboly suggested that the Steelers might have intentionally held out Wilson to get a better assessment of Fields' potential.
"You pretend like your starting quarterback had a calf injury that kept him out for three weeks. I’m not saying he’s pretending, I’m just saying he could have been out there sooner."
Many believe this season is a redshirt year for Fields. When the Steelers acquired him, they reportedly told Fields they wanted him to learn from Wilson. Despite this, Fields is determined to compete for the starting job and has impressed with his attitude and potential. Although Fields has shown promise and raw talent, he has also faced some career red flags. Time under a seasoned quarterback like Wilson might help him refine his skills and prepare for the future.
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Steelers' Alex Highsmith chasing down Bears' Justin Fields
While the idea that the Steelers faked Wilson's injury seems extreme, Kaboly hinted that Wilson's absence might have been strategic. Kaboly himself admitted he doesn’t believe the injury was faked but suggested that Wilson could have returned sooner. Given Wilson's age and the need to avoid further injury, it’s plausible that the Steelers used the situation to evaluate Fields more closely. While being extra cautious about Wilson's health.
Steelers Will Have A Hard Choice To Make After The 2024 Season
Heading into the season, Wilson is likely to be the starting quarterback. While things could change, it appears Wilson is firmly in control of the starting role. After the 2024 season, the Steelers will need to decide their future at quarterback. A full season with both Wilson and Fields should provide clarity on their direction.
With Fields on the sidelines, it will be challenging to gauge if he can be the franchise’s future. Wilson, a proven veteran, has expressed a desire to remain in Pittsburgh for the remainder of his career. Fields, younger and more dynamic, represents an exciting option, but Wilson’s experience makes him the immediate choice. The Steelers’ decision at quarterback after the 2024 season will be intriguing. Right now both quarterbacks aren't costing Pittsburgh much but that will change after the season. The Steelers will have to decide which quarterback they want to invest in for their future.
Steelers' Justin Fields and Russell Wilson during training camp ahead of the 2024 season.
Although the notion of the Steelers faking Wilson’s injury is unlikely, it's clear they may have seen it as an opportunity to get a better look at Fields. Fields had a solid camp and took advantage of the extra reps. The battle at the quarterback position will continue to be a headline throughout the entire 2024 season.
