NEWSLETTER
In discussing the state of the quarterback position in Pittsburgh, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin said Russell Wilson has “pole position” to get the starting nod.
But it sure doesn’t sound like Justin Fields will be relegated to backup duties.
Instead, it sounds like the former Chicago Bears quarterback has a chance to compete for the starting job in Pittsburgh. NFL Media’s Nick Shook has these quotes from Tomlin, who spoke at the Annual League Meetings the NFL is hosting in Florida (bold emphasis mine):
“No, we’re not resistant to competition, but as I’ve mentioned several times of late, I just think it’s appropriate to establish positioning as we get into this thing,” Tomlin explained. “The term that I’ve used is Russell has pole position, and why do I use that term? Because during this time where we are not formally working, man, I just think it’s beneficial. His experience in the National Football League. His process has been honed and perfected, talking about over a 12-month calendar. It’s not only good for him, but it’s good for teams, it’s good for receivers, tight ends, running backs, etc. All the things that people that are really committed to winning do this time of year.
“Russell has those resources, man, that structure, and so that’s why I say he has pole position, man. It just creates a synergy that I think is good for this time of year. When it’s time to compete, we get in training camp-like settings and go to preseason stadiums and so forth, obviously Justin will be given an opportunity that shows his capabilities.”
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“Justin will be given an opportunity” isn’t something I was necessarily expecting. At least, not at the outset. Eventually? Sure. I’m not one to bet against someone like Fields who has the combination of prospect pedigree, raw talent, and work ethic. But maybe the QB situation in Pittsburgh isn’t as cut-and-dry as I would’ve assumed after the Steelers’ offseason acquisitions.
Are we going to see a Russell Wilson-Justin Fields QB battle?
It would make sense that Wilson has “pole position” in a QB compeition. Wilson is a proven leader as a quarterback, a Super Bowl champion, and someone who has all the motivation to lead the way on a one-year “prove it” deal at the veteran’s minimum in Pittsburgh while the Denver Broncos foot the rest of the bill on a $40 million contract. Meanwhile, Fields is an up-and-comer (despite having three year’s worth of starting experience) with much to prove. Together, it makes for a compelling situation to watch from afar.
The Steelers signing Russell Wilson, then trading for Justin Fields made me think there was a clear pecking order at the quarterback position in Pittsburgh. Wilson enters as QB1. Fields sits behind him as QB2. The veteran (Wilson) gets a chance to re-boot his career as a starter. Meanwhile, the younger quarterback (Fields) gets to reset in a new city without the pressure of needing to be The Man right away. Maybe it’ll be like that eventually. But it doesn’t feel like that is set in stone at this moment.
Judging by Head Coach Mike Tomlin’s words, it sounds like Justin Fields could play his way into a starting role. To be clear, Russell Wilson should be seen as the top dog and leader in the clubhouse. However, the framing here keeps the door open for Fields. It would be a good thing for the Bears if Fields can win the starter’s job. If Fields topples Wilson, becomes the starter, and plays on 51 percent of the team’s offensive snaps, then that 2025 sixth-round pick heading from Pittsburgh to Chicago would become a fourth-rounder.
Dom’t get me wrong. I know you didn’t need another reason to cheer on Justin Fields. But a little extra incentive never hurt anyone. Bears fans have a lot on their plate and plenty to root for with their own team in 2024. But there will be an interest in what happens in Pittsburgh. I’ll be curious to see how that all plays out.
