The Pittsburgh Steelers have long been a powerhouse in the NFL, but recent decisions regarding their quarterback position have left fans and analysts alike scratching their heads. The evolution of the quarterback role in the NFL has been dramatic, with modern quarterbacks needing to be mobile, agile, and capable of making plays on the run. Yet, the Steelers seem to be stuck in the past, making questionable choices that have left them lagging behind.

The Changing Face of the Quarterback Position

Gone are the days when quarterbacks stood in the pocket, scanning the field for an open receiver. Today’s quarterbacks are expected to be dual threats, capable of both passing and running the ball effectively. This shift has been driven by the success of mobile quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, and Jalen Hurts, who have redefined what it means to play the position.

Missed Opportunities: Mahomes and Hurts

The Steelers had a golden opportunity to draft Patrick Mahomes in 2017 but passed on him, opting instead for other players. Mahomes has since become one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league, leading the Kansas City Chiefs to multiple playoff appearances and a Super Bowl victory. Similarly, in 2020, the Steelers had the chance to draft Jalen Hurts but chose Chase Claypool instead. The Philadelphia Eagles picked up Hurts with the 53rd pick, and he has since become a key player for them.

The Russell Wilson and Justin Fields Experiment

In an attempt to address their quarterback issues, the Steelers signed Russell Wilson and traded for Justin Fields in 2024. However, this decision has been anything but smooth. Wilson was given the starting job despite Fields’ hot start to the season, leading to controversy and mixed results. The Steelers’ season has been a rollercoaster, with Wilson’s performance falling short of expectations and Fields showing flashes of brilliance.

The Future of the Steelers’ Quarterback Room

As the 2024 season winds down, the Steelers face a crucial decision: who will be their quarterback moving forward? Fields has shown potential and could be the long-term solution, but Wilson’s experience and veteran presence cannot be ignored. The Steelers must decide whether to stick with Wilson, give Fields another chance, or explore other options in the draft or free agency.

The Mike Tomlin Factor

One factor that cannot be overlooked is head coach Mike Tomlin’s influence on these decisions. Tomlin has been with the Steelers for 18 years and has a significant say in roster decisions. His loyalty to Wilson has been cited as a potential roadblock to bringing Fields back. With mounting criticism and the Steelers’ recent struggles, some are even speculating that Tomlin’s job could be on the line.

What Should the Steelers Do?

The Steelers need to make a bold move to secure their future at the quarterback position. Whether it’s sticking with Fields, giving Wilson another shot, or drafting a new quarterback, the decision must be made with the future in mind. The Steelers have a proud history, and it’s time to return to their winning ways by making the right choice at quarterback.

What do you think the Steelers should do? Do you have a favorite quarterback in mind for them?

As the NFL season unfolds, discussions about potential playoff contenders become increasingly heated. One team that has piqued interest is none other than the Pittsburgh Steelers. With their rich history and formidable coaching under Mike Tomlin, they have a strong chance to contend for a Super Bowl title—especially if they make a pivotal decision regarding their quarterback situation. In this post, we’ll explore why inserting Justin Fields back into the lineup sooner rather than later could be for Pittsburgh’s success, and how Fields stacks up against veteran Russell Wilson in both statistics and intangibles.

Statistical Comparison: Justin Fields vs. Russell Wilson

When comparing quarterbacks, statistics often tell part of the story but don’t capture everything that makes a player special. With that being said, let’s take a look at some key stats from both players to highlight where Fields excels:

1. Passing Yards:
   • Justin Fields (2023): 2,000 yards (approx.)
   • Russell Wilson (2023): 2,500 yards (approx2. Touchdown-to-Interception Ratio:
   • Justin Fields: 18 TDs / 9 INTs
   • Russell Wilson: 14 TDs / 10 INTs
2. Completion Percentage:
   • Justin Fields: ~65%
   • Russell Wilson: ~60%
3. Rushing Ability:
   • This is where Justin really shines!
     • Justin Fields’ Rushing Yards (2023): Nearly 600 yards with an average of over 6 yards per carry – Russell Wilson has always been mobile but hasn’t showcased similar rushing explosiveness in recent seasons.

From these stats alone, it’s clear that while Russell Wilson brings experience and leadership to his game—as shown by his time with Seattle—Fields offers an exciting dual-threat capability combined with better efficiency numbers in critical areas.

The Intangibles Favoring Justin Fields

Beyond mere numbers lies what many analysts refer to as “intangibles”—the qualities that don’t show up on stat sheets but can significantly impact games:

1. Mobility and Playmaking Ability: Justin’s athleticism allows him to extend plays when protection breaks down; he can evade defenders more effectively compared to an aging Russ whose mobility has diminished over time due injuries sustained throughout his career.

2. Leadership & Energy*: While both quarterbacks are natural leaders and display on-field presence, it can be argued that the young dynamic nature Field brings is fresh energy to the locker room motivating teammates to push their limits together toward the common goal of the playoffs/SuperBowl .

3. Adaptability*: As seen during pivotal moments last year, adapting quickly, utilizing strengths surrounding the talent pool proves invaluable especially in close games where every possession counts and decisions must be made swiftly when the quarterback is underpressure.

4. Youthfulness & Development Potential*: At this stage in their careers, approaching age forty often leads to performance decline overall and decreases effectiveness. Conversely; entering peak years, entering prime ages twenty-four/twenty-five affords opportunities to refine skills, improve weaknesses and continue growth exponentially!

5. High Football IQ*: Observations indicate increasing the understanding of defenses, plotting moves ahead of calculated risks, that results in improved outcomes. The play selection, executing effectively within schemes is designed enhance offensive capabilities.

The Importance of Timely Decisions by Mike Tomlin

If Mike Tomlin wants any shot at winning another Super Bowl ring before too long—he has to act decisively regarding who leads the offense going forward! Delaying insertion may lead to missed opportunities, the loss of momentum which is critical with weeks ahead as teams ramp-up efforts to solidify playoff spots or face elimination. Altogether regardless of the talent available and the supporting cast around them! By bringing back Fields sooner rather than later; not only does he benefit personally gaining the exposure needed further to refine his craft during high-stakes situations—but the entire franchise rallies behind him with confidence will inspire belief amongst fans loyalty support carries weight beyond just wins/losses!

Conclusion

Inserting Justin Fields into the Steelers’ starting lineup could be one of Coach Mike Tomlin’s wisest decisions yet if done now! With impressive statistical comparisons favoring youth paired with favorable intangible traits setting him apart from the seasoned Russell Wilson —Pittsburgh finds themselves poised to capitalize on this opportunity and seize the chance to get back to the glory of winning championships. Once again postseason awaits!! So let’s rally behind our boys in black and gold—because with quick thinking, decisive action, coupled with a potent combination of skill sets displayed thus far—eases the road towards lifting another Lombardi Trophy.