PITTSBURGH โ Justin Fields appears to be accepting the likelihood of being benched for Russell Wilson as the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for their matchup against the New York Jets. The Steelers currently boast a 4-2 record and are tied with the Baltimore Ravens for the top spot in the AFC North.
While Fields acknowledges that he has contributed positively during Wilsonโs recovery from a persistent calf injury, he questions whether his performance has been convincing enough for Coach Mike Tomlin to keep him as the starting quarterback once Wilson is fit to return. โTo be honest, I donโt believe I played well enough. If I had, there wouldnโt even be a question about who should start,โ Fields stated on Thursday.
Tomlin has not officially confirmed the starter for the upcoming game, but all indicators suggest that Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowler, is poised to make his debut with the team. This week, Wilson has taken significant snaps with the first team, and in an unusual shift, Fields spoke with the media prior to Thursdayโs practice, which has typically been his routine this season.
Tomlin hinted at Wilsonโs return, emphasizing that the team has shown strong performances at times but should not confuse them with greatness. Over the first six games, Fields has been responsible for ten touchdownsโfive passing and five rushingโwith just three turnovers. However, he has seen a decline in accuracy over the last two weeks, and with a challenging schedule approaching after the teamโs bye week in early November, Tomlin seems inclined to evaluate Wilsonโs potential contributions.
Both Tomlin and new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith have expressed their admiration for Fields, often praising his toughness and maturity. They view Fieldsโ self-criticism, despite a solid performance overall, as a reflection of his character. โThis is why we appreciate working with Justin; his honesty is genuine, not just a clichรฉ,โ Smith remarked.
Fields, who was traded to Pittsburgh from Chicago shortly after Wilson was signed, responded calmly when asked about the emotional ramifications of potentially losing his starting position. โIโm just focused on doing my job, whether thatโs playing or supporting the guys on the sidelines. Iโll help in any way I can,โ he said.
There seems to be a mutual respect between Fields and Wilson throughout this transition. Wilson visibly supported Fields during a recent touchdown run against the Raiders, and Fields acknowledges Wilsonโs established seniority regarding the starting role since they both arrived.
The situation illustrates the unusual phase the Steelers are navigating. Tomlin has stated before that statistics can be misleading, often serving as comfort for losers, and has consistently emphasized that success is what defines quarterbacks and coaches. Furthermore, Pittsburgh is experiencing its second consecutive 4-2 start.
The previous season was marked by a similar offensive scenario with Kenny Pickett as the starting quarterback, yet there was no discussion of changing quarterbacks despite a lackluster scoring output. Tomlin noted that the circumstances differ this time, as the organization had committed to Pickett as the franchise quarterback back then, with backups who donโt have Wilsonโs considerable credentials.
Interestingly, both Wilson and Fields might hit free agency next spring, so allowing Wilson to play provides Tomlin with insights regarding both quarterbacks moving forward. When asked whether he worried about Fieldsโ confidence if Wilson is selected to start, Smithโs response reflected the unique situation within the Steelers. โHeโs 4-2, and heโs been quite productive,โ Smith replied.
However, it seems that for now, that productivity might not be enough to keep Fields on the field.