Steelers HC Mike Tomlin gives major update on Justin Fields and Russell Wilson ahead of the offseason

Russell Wilson's 1-year veteran minimum deal is perfect business acumen from the Pittsburgh Steelers.


Steelers HC Mike Tomlin gives major update on Justin Fields and Russell Wilson ahead of the offseason

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has almost confirmed his starting quarterback (image via Imago)

For the Pittsburgh Steelers, nothing could be better than landing Super Bowl-winning quarterback Russell Wilson on a bargain 1-year contract. 

To add on to that, they landed 25-year-old quarterback Justin Fields in exchange for late-round picks. Despite this formidable haul, only one can start. Head coach Mike Tomlin has now come out and provided a major update on that competition.

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You know, right now in the early stages of team development, Russ is in pole position. I think his collective body of work merits that. But we're really excited to have Justin as well. And obviously during the course of team development training camp and the preseason, he'll be given an opportunity to compete.
The 17-year head coaching veteran updated reporters during their practice today

In short, Russell Wilson is going to start the season as their starting quarterback. However, they will see how Justin Fields develops and competes up until the preseason.

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All the signals coming from the Pittsburgh Steelers camp suggest Wilson will be their primary signal caller. After all, his resume and his skills make it a no-brainer. Fields, however, is seen as their long-term solution.

He can learn from his championship-winning teammate what it takes to lead a team. It will also help him develop traits that the Steelers are looking for in a starting quarterback. Justin Fields could end up being the starting quarterback for the Steelers in the future.

Russell Wilson’s career rides on this season

For Russell Wilson, his career was in the doldrums with the way things materialized in Denver. However, with the Steelers, he is essentially getting a fresh start. 

Russell Wilson will likely start over Justin Fields
Russell Wilson will likely start over Justin Fields (image via Imago)

However, the Pittsburgh Steelers pride themselves on their footballing ways. So, it is up to the 12-season veteran to rejuvenate his career and show the NFL that he belongs in the top tier of quarterbacks.

With his 1-year contract, the Steelers have essentially safeguarded themselves from any potential pitfalls of signing him. If the bad play that plagued Wilson in Denver at times makes a comeback, they can move on without incurring any major financial losses.

Bringing in Justin Fields essentially will keep that pressure on Wilson. If things do not go to plan, Mike Tomlin will be then suggesting that Fields would be in pole position to take over.

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