The Pittsburgh Steelers have a significant quarterback controversy. With both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson fighting for the starting role, it’s time to make a decision: Justin Fields should be the Steelers’ QB1.
Recent seasons have seen the Steelers’ quarterback play result in disappointing performances and missed opportunities. In response, Pittsburgh brought in two new quarterbacks during the off season: Justin Fields and Russell Wilson. With debate around the NFL media about who should lead the Steelers, it’s clear Justin Fields is the better option.
Despite facing struggles early in his career with the Chicago Bears, Fields displayed noticeable flashes of potential. His impressive mobility and pure arm strength make him a perfect fit for the Steelers’ system, which is developing under new off-season hire Arthur Smith. Fields has the skill set to thrive with his ability to extend plays and to escape the pocket, adding a dimension that is key for success in today’s NFL that the Steelers haven’t had in quite some time.
While Wilson has had a very successful (some would even argue, a hall of fame caliber) career, he is on a one-year deal, is 35 years old, and is not a long-term solution for the Steelers. Pittsburgh has no loyalty or “debt” tied to Wilson. Fields represents a younger option who can grow alongside the team.
At just 25, Fields has the potential to develop into a franchise quarterback who everybody thought he could be coming out of college, providing the stability the Steelers need for this season, and the future.
Building a team around a young talent like Fields, who can grow within the organization, is a move that will pay off in the long run.
Offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith puts an emphasis on a run-heavy offense, aligning perfectly with one of Fields’ strengths. His mobility and athletic ability allows for creative play-calling that can exploit defenses. Wilson, while a proven veteran, has shown diminished mobility in recent years, especially following injuries. This includes a calf injury he picked up during this off season, which won’t help. Fields’ agility offers Pittsburgh a playmaker who can capitalize on the strengths of their improving offensive line, which has been invested in by significant draft capital over recent years, with first round picks like Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu, aimed at enhancing the run game and pass protection.
Currently, Fields is starting due to Wilson’s lingering calf injury, and has seized his opportunity. With the Steelers off to a 3-0 start, Fields has a 3-1 TD to turnover ratio, creating a sense of comfort within the offense. Fields has seemingly improved every week, getting better through his progressions when passing, and his reads of the defence. Through three games, Fields has a 72.3 per cent CP completion percentage. For context, his career passing percentage was only 61.3 per cent before arriving in Pittsburgh. Worth noting, Fields’ completion percentage this year also sit’s ahead of Wilson’s career percentage of 64.7 per cent. Changing to Wilson could disrupt the chemistry the team has built in these initial weeks.
Pittsburgh has a perfect opportunity to maximize Fields’ potential, youth, and skill set. Sticking with him as the starting quarterback capitalizes on the team’s chances for immediate success, and also sets a solid foundation for the future and stabilizing long-term success.
It’s time for the Steelers to embrace the present, and the future all at the same time. The answer? Justin Fields at the helm.