Russell Wilson reportedly won’t be Steelers’ starting quarterback next season

The Pittsburgh Steelers are leaning towards their alternative option Justin Fields, who provides a versatile dual threat ability.

Russell Wilson reportedly won’t be Steelers’ starting quarterback next season

Russell Wilson (Image via Imago)

The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking at a major decision as free agency is fast approaching. They have been divided between their two quarterback options: Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Wilson and Fields are scheduled to become unrestricted free agents in quite a little time.

Nevertheless, as the deadline inches closer, The Steelers are reportedly moving away from former Super Bowl champion Russell Wilson after just one season. Reports suggest that Fields has the upper hand in the Steelers’ long-term plans.

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According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, Pittsburgh is leaning toward making Fields their starting quarterback for the 2025 season over Wilson. While no formal deal has been reached, the team has the advantage of negotiating with Fields before he hits the open market.

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Fields, who turns 26 this week, started the first six games of the 2024 season, leading the team to a 4-2 record. He completed 66 percent of his passes, accumulating 1,106 passing yards, five touchdowns, and one interception. Additionally, his mobility proved to be an asset, as he rushed for 289 yards and five touchdowns.

Wilson, on the other hand, took over as the starter for 11 games after recovering from a calf injury. He threw for 2,482 yards with 16 touchdowns and five interceptions, completing 64 percent of his passes. Despite solid numbers, the Steelers struggled down the stretch, losing their final five games with Wilson under center, including the postseason.

Former Quarterback and celebrated alumni Ben Roethlisberger wants Justin Fields to come back to Pittsburgh

Fans and media largely agree that Justin Fields is the best choice and at least one Steelers legend shares that view. On his podcast Footbahlin, Ben Roethlisberger expressed his support for giving Fields a year.

Pittsburgh Steelers QBs Russell Wilson and Justin Fields are also targets
Pittsburgh Steelers QBs Russell Wilson and Justin Fields (Image via X)

I’d like to see what Fields could do in another year of that offense. Whether you want to bring someone else in, let’s see what he can do in a second year of an offense. There’s some familiarity. He’s had a new system every year. He may be more comfortable. Obviously, we’re not taking into account contracts and all that kind of stuff. I’d like to see what Fields could do another year.

Ben Roethlisberger said

Justin Fields is a versatile dual-threat quarterback whose mobility introduces an additional dimension that opposing defenses must account for. Fields presents a logical option due to his youth and the opportunity to evaluate his potential throughout a season.

As free agency nears, Pittsburgh must act quickly if they want to retain Fields. While he is expected to draw interest from multiple teams, the Steelers have a window to secure his services before other offers come in. If they fail to reach an agreement, Wilson could remain an option or the team may explore other avenues, including the draft or a different veteran quarterback.