The Pittsburgh Steelers decided to bring in two new quarterbacks in the 2024 offseason, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Wilson was named the starter, but a calf injury forced Fields into action. Stepping up, Fields accounted for 10 touchdowns and led the Steelers to a strong 4-2 record, showing his growth and potential. Yet, once Wilson was healthy, Head Coach Mike Tomlin made the bold choice to bench Fields, a move that stirred up some debate among fans and pundits.
Despite the initial backlash, Tomlin’s decision is now looking like a smart one, as Wilson has reinvigorated the offense. His veteran presence has helped the Steelers open up their playbook, creating opportunities for their wide receivers and adding balance to their attack. Meanwhile, Fields has remained positive, displaying professionalism and focus on learning behind the experienced Wilson, which has only further impressed the coaching staff.
On his podcast Footbahlin on Tuesday, Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger shared his thoughts on the quarterback situation, praising Fields’ resilience and attitude. Roethlisberger emphasized that, despite Tomlin’s decision, Fields is still primed to be the future face of the franchise. He believes the experience of learning alongside Wilson could set Fields up for long-term success in Pittsburgh.
“I think this is only gonna benefit Justin in the long run,” Roethlisberger said. “If Justin is your guy of the future, which is what it appears like they are thinking, then you know what? Sit him behind Russ for for the rest of the year, let him learn and let him see what it’s about.”
As a strong advocate for young quarterbacks taking time to learn before stepping into a starting role, Roethlisberger sees this approach as crucial to Fields’ future success.
“He came in and had to go right away too,” Roethlisberger said. “I think that can only benefit Justin in the long run.”
Unlike Fields’ experience with the Chicago Bears, where he was thrust into the starting role right away, Fields now has the unique opportunity in Pittsburgh to refine his skills and learn the game at a different pace. Roethlisberger continued to praise Fields for how he has handled this unique situation.
“The way he has handled everything,” Roethlisberger said. “It seems like he has really accepted what’s going on. It’s not his call, Coach Tomlin made a decision, but he’s gonna make the most of this. Maybe he’s sitting there thinking, I’m gonna make this my team next year.”
Wilson, about to turn 36 in late November, has looked impressive in his two starts, but he realistically has only about two prime years left. Reports indicate that the Steelers are interested in extending his contract after the 2024 season. If that extension materializes, it raises questions for Steelers fans about Fields’ future with the team.
Steelers Have A Hard Choice To Make At QB After The 2024 Season
Many believe Fields’ strong performance in his six games this season could earn him a shot as a starter elsewhere. Should the Steelers offer Wilson a significant contract, it would make it difficult—and perhaps impractical—to invest heavily in Fields as well. Pittsburgh will face a major decision regarding where to allocate their resources at quarterback, potentially reshaping their long-term plans.
For now, Wilson and Fields are both relatively affordable, but this will change after the season. The Steelers’ quarterback situation will be one to watch closely, with Roethlisberger standing firm in his belief that Fields could still be the team’s future. The Steelers need to be careful with how they navigate the quarterback situation after the 2024 season.
