The Pittsburgh Steelers may be taking a bold step this week by considering a change at quarterback, despite a solid start to the season with Justin Fields under center.
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Mike Tomlin confirms Fields’ job is on the line
Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that Russell Wilson, who returned from a calf injury in Week 6, is now set to take first-team reps in practice.
This decision comes as the Steelers, sitting at 4-2 and tied for first in the AFC North, are looking to solidify their offense for the remainder of the season.
Fields has been efficient, completing 66% of his passes with five touchdowns and only one interception.
He has also added a dynamic element to the Steelers’ offense, rushing for 231 yards and five touchdowns.
Despite these impressive stats, Fields’ recent performances have raised some concerns.
Over the last two weeks, he has thrown for fewer than 150 yards per game and struggled with accuracy, completing less than 60% of his passes.
While his legs have been a valuable asset, helping the Steelers edge out a victory against the Raiders with two rushing touchdowns, his inconsistency in the passing game remains a focal point for Tomlin.
“Justin has been really good, and we’ve been good at times, but not to be confused with great,”
Tomlin remarked when asked why Fields had not been named the permanent starter.
“This is a competitive league, man. We’re trying to position ourselves to be that team, and we’ve got a player with talent, who hasn’t had an opportunity to play, so we’re going to explore those things.”
Wilson vs Fields battle heats up in Pittsburgh
Tomlin’s comments reflect his intent to keep all options open.
With Russell Wilson available, the Steelers seem inclined to evaluate whether the veteran quarterback, known for his efficiency in Denver with 26 touchdowns to just eight interceptions last year, can provide a more reliable passing attack.
However, it remains unclear if Wilson, whose experience is undeniable but whose recent form has drawn criticism, is the right solution for an offense that has relied heavily on the legs of Fields.
Tomlin has not ruled out the possibility of a two-quarterback system, leaving the door open for both players to contribute in Sunday’s matchup against the New York Jets.
“We’re appreciative of what Justin has done, particularly how he’s taken care of the ball,” Tomlin said.
“But we’re just looking at all of the people at our disposal. The same way we do at any position.”
The Steelers’ schedule only gets more challenging from here, with crucial AFC North games and high-profile opponents like the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles on the horizon.
Pittsburgh will have until the end of the practice week to make their final decision, with Tomlin stating that an announcement regarding the starting quarterback will come “closer to game time.”
For now, the Steelers find themselves at a crossroads, weighing the value of continuity with Fields against the possible upside of Wilson.
