The Pittsburgh Steelers will have a completely new quarterback room after acquiring Russell Wilson and Justin Fields earlier in the offseason.
Pittsburgh signed Wilson after he was released by the Denver Broncos during the spring. It then acquired Fields in a trade from the Chicago Bears ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft.
It’s going to be an extremely interesting dynamic under center for head coach Mike Tomlin and Co. Is Wilson going to be the sure fire starter heading into training camp? What will Fields’ role be?
There had been some talk about Fields — the No. 11 overall pick of Chicago back in 2021 — playing a variety of roles. That includes returning kicks and punts.
Speaking during Steelers organized team activities (OTAs) this week, Wilson offered a rather interesting take on his new teammate.
“Justin is a franchise quarterback. He’s a guy that can do a lot of amazing things. So, we have two dynamic guys that can do a lot of special things.”
Russell Wilson on Justin Fields, via Tim Benz of TribLive.com
Fields, 25, struggled in a starting role for the Bears during his three seasons with the team. He threw 40 touchdowns compared to 30 interceptions while boasting a 10-28 record in 38 starts. The former Ohio State star did add 2,220 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns on the ground.
Related: Ranking Russell Wilson among NFL starting quarterbacks
Pittsburgh Steelers to use Justin Fields as offensive weapon at times
With Wilson largely viewed as a starter, the Steelers would love to get more out of Fields on the offensive side of the ball. Wilson is seemingly in support of that idea.
“Justin is obviously one of the most talented guys in the NFL,” Wilson said. “You know all the things he can do. The player, the quarterback that he is. He’s dynamic. It’s all about us winning. That’s the focus. I think it would strike fear in some defenses, that’s for sure.”
Based on what we’ve seen from Fields during his young career, this could make some sense. The idea would be for him to play running back and wide receiver at times.
After all, Pittsburgh’s offense needs a shot in the arm. It finished 28th in the league in scoring last season at under 18 points per game.