Mike Tomlin chooses to be optimistic about Justin Fields’ underwhelming preseason outing

Mike Tomlin said that Justin Fields' underwhelming performance neutralized the positive aspects of what he observed during the three series.

Mike Tomlin chooses to be optimistic about Justin Fields’ underwhelming preseason outing

Justin Fields and Mike Tomlin (Via Imago)

The Pittsburgh Steelers decided to go forward with Justin Fields in the lead during the preseason rather than veteran Russell Wilson. Although his debut run was impressive, two plays that Fields tried to negate with center Nate Herbig overshadowed his overall performance.

The Steelers faced off against the Houston Texans on Friday for their first preseason game, which ultimately resulted in a 20-12 defeat for Pittsburgh. In the first seven offensive plays, Fields and Herbig disrupted the entire offense by stalling two fumble snaps. Not only did quarterback Fields miss many run plays, but also jeopardized his chances to acquire the starting job.

YouTube video

While talking about the former Chicago Bears quarterback’s underwhelming outing, Pittsburgh head coach Mike Tomlin said that it neutralized the positive aspects of Fields’ skills, which he observed during the three series of play.

FS Video
I thought he did some nice things. But obviously he was a component of the C-Q exchange, and from my perspective that’s dual responsibility on the center and the quarterback. It negated a lot of good things going on in those first couple of drives.
HC Tomlin said per ESPN’s Brooke Pryor

Besides dodging the fumbles, Fields only posted 5-of-6 for 67 yards and was sacked twice with no interceptions and no touchdown. He obtained the starter’s role because of Russell Wilson’s calf injury during training. But now, since he is returning and Fields giving more reasons to the team, he is anticipated to move back to the second team.

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Justin Fields takes responsibility for preseason loss 

Despite the offensive fiasco and failure to lead the team in points in the first game of the preseason, quarterback Fields took full responsibility at the press conference showcasing his strong leadership skills. He blamed himself for the loss and didn’t hold his teammates responsible. 

We were just shooting ourselves in the foot. Fumbled snap, I think all three phases, so we can definitely be better in that part. And I think the snapping part, we just got to be on the same page. I'll put that on me to just be on the same page and know who's in that center or know how to adjust and what I need to do.
Justin Fields said in the post-game conference
Justin Fields
Justin Fields (via IMAGO)

After being drafted by the Bears in 2021, Fields failed to establish his prominence in the league, let alone record a winning season. The most likely scenario for him in 2024 is being the backup to nine-time Pro Bowler Wilson.

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