The Pittsburgh Steelers have some important decisions to make this offseason. Both quarterbacks from the team’s 2024 roster are set to enter free agency, and the team will have to decide which, if either, will return.
Russell Wilson was the primary quarterback, starting in 11 games while Justin Fields started in six. Neither of those quarterbacks did enough to guarantee his return in 2025, but it’s possible the team could retain one while also adding a rookie or another veteran.
A recent report from FOX Sports’ Jay Glazer indicated that Wilson was unlikely to be back, while Fields’ future is uncertain.
Nick Villano of FanSided recently predicted where each of the NFL’s top free agents will sign, and he chose Pittsburgh for Fields. Regarding the Fields-Pittsburgh reunion, Villano offered the following
The Steelers need a lot of help this offseason, especially on offense. They have no real weapons outside of George Pickens, and he has serious issues with consistency. They will likely use their first-round pick on offensive help, but it doesn’t make sense for the Steelers to give decent money to Russell Wilson when Fields will likely be cheaper and better. This will give the Steelers more money to sign a wide receiver, a running back, and offensive line help.
Fields’ best shot to be a starter is with the Steelers. All other teams will make him do what he’s already done with Pittsburgh. He hasn’t gained the trust of the other teams in the league, so he might as well stick with the team he knows.
In 2024, Fields threw for 1,106 yards with five touchdowns and one interception. The dual-threat quarterback also ran for 289 yards and five scores.
As Villano mentioned, Fields is younger and cheaper than Wilson. Spotrac projects Wilson to earn a deal worth $38.7 million annually, while Fields is projected to land a more modest $6.4 million. There’s also the chance that Fields turns into what he was drafted to be, whereas you know what you’re getting with Wilson
Perhaps sticking with Pittsburgh will provide Fields with consistency and allow him to reach his full potential. As Villano mentioned, the money saved by letting Wilson walk could instead be used to improve the offense around Fields.
