According to Steelers news, the quarterbacking rivalry between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields is still very much alive.
With the addition of former Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson, the Pittsburgh Steelers started to instantly enhance the quarterback room. But the squad then surprised everyone in the NFL by adding Justin Fields, a former quarterback for the Chicago Bears.
Wilson said he was eager to collaborate with Fields and handled the matter with class. Fields, on the other hand, made it clear that he was eager to take the starting job. That’s not shocking at all, but it seems like the quarterback competition is also being allowed to continue by the Steelers coaching staff.
Head coach Mike Tomlin disclosed in March that Wilson will hold the “pole position” when it comes to starting. He is regarded as the starter and will set the pace, but places are subject to change. Fields will be given every chance to fight for the position.
Arthur Smith, the offensive coordinator, recently expressed the same opinion. On Tuesday, he repeated it to reporters. Smith declared, “Russ holds the lead.” It’s a contest. Naturally, once we arrive in Latrobe, I’m sure things will get heated, but both of those players were aware of it before they were acquired, and they arrived here, and I believe that was fairly obvious.”
Fields is still in the mix for the position, despite Smith’s statement that Wilson is still very much in the driver’s seat. The quarterback competition is still very much alive and well, but the Steelers still have training camp and the preseason to decide who will start.
Wilson does have the advantage of having played in 12 seasons. Though he’ll be entering his 13th season, his background doesn’t automatically mean he has to start. Wilson’s obvious problems during his time with the Broncos may be a major factor in Smith and Tomlin’s desire to give the quarterback competition more time to develop.
Conversely, Fields has only played in three seasons. Being much younger than Wilson, he has also had ups and downs in his tenure with the Bears. Fields might gain from having an experienced veteran behind him, but it wouldn’t be shocking in the slightest if he took over as the starting pitcher. Omar Khan, the general manager of the Steelers, deserves praise for acquiring two reliable quarterbacks in the offseason. Fields can take over and help guide the squad to a potential postseason berth should Wilson start but be hurt or not perform well.