The Pittsburgh Steelers, currently standing at 4-2 with Justin Fields as their starting quarterback, are facing rumors that his time as the starter may be coming to an end. Reports have surfaced indicating that Russell Wilson will be taking first-team reps this week, potentially signaling a change in the starting lineup for the upcoming game.
Wilson initially won the starting job over Fields during training camp, but a calf injury just before the season opener sidelined him and gave Fields another opportunity. Fields, who was acquired in a trade with the Chicago Bears, has performed well, boasting a career-high 66.3 completion percentage and only two turnovers. The Steelers are currently tied for first place in their division, thanks in large part to their strong defense.
Despite Wilson’s superior passing abilities, there are concerns about his performance, as he was released by the Denver Broncos before his contract extension even took effect. Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger has voiced his support for Fields, emphasizing the importance of sticking with a winning formula. Roethlisberger believes that Fields has been playing well, particularly with his ability to use his legs to create opportunities on the field.
Roethlisberger also praised Fields for his knack for extending plays and using his mobility when necessary, qualities that set him apart from Wilson. Head coach Mike Tomlin, addressing the reports of Wilson potentially starting, clarified that he was only considering Wilson for the upcoming game and that Fields had performed admirably in his role as the starting quarterback.
Fields has also contributed to the team’s success with his rushing ability, gaining 231 yards on the ground in the first six games of the season. While this falls short of his impressive 1,143 rushing yards in 2022, Fields has proven to be a valuable asset to the team without causing any significant setbacks.
Looking ahead, the Steelers are set to face the New York Jets on Sunday night, a team that has been struggling with three consecutive losses. The addition of Davante Adams via trade has bolstered the Jets’ offense and pleased quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
In conclusion, the Steelers are facing a potential quarterback dilemma with the looming possibility of Russell Wilson taking over the starting role from Justin Fields. However, the team’s success under Fields’ leadership and the support of key figures like Ben Roethlisberger suggest that sticking with Fields may be the best course of action for now. The upcoming game against the Jets will provide further insight into how the Steelers will navigate this quarterback situation moving forward.