The Pittsburgh Steelers have taken significant strides to bolster their roster for the 2024 season, making headlines by acquiring Justin Fields from the Chicago Bears. The transaction, which cost the Steelers a conditional sixth-round pick in the 2025 draft, potentially upgrading to a fourth-rounder based on performance, marks a pivotal moment in Fields’ career.
Justin Fields, whose tenure with the Bears did not pan out as expected, finds himself in a unique position in Pittsburgh. He will begin the 2024 training camp as a backup to veteran quarterback Russell Wilson. However, recent discussions have surfaced about utilizing Fields in a more unconventional role—on special teams—following new NFL kickoff rules that allow for greater creativity.
The Controversial Prospect of Justin Fields on Special Teams
The idea of deploying a quarterback of Fields’ caliber on special teams has sparked a debate among analysts and fans alike.
On a recent episode of the “CHGO Sports” podcast, the suggestion that Fields might return kicks was discussed, drawing concern from analysts including Gregg Braggs Jr. Braggs expressed sympathy for Fields, stating, “At this point, I honestly just feel bad for Justin. To even have a report out there where that’s being considered by his coaching staff… It just speaks to the league not knowing how to use a quarterback like Justin Fields.”
Fields’ dynamic abilities were showcased during his time with the Bears, where he rushed for over 2,000 yards, demonstrating his potential beyond traditional quarterback duties. Despite his athletic prowess, the move to special teams could be seen as a sidelining of his quarterbacking skills, which Braggs criticizes as a failure of the coaching staff to adapt to and maximize his talents.
The Steelers’ Strategy: Leveraging Fields’ Versatility
While the initial reaction to Fields’ potential new role has been mixed, the Steelers’ coaching staff, led by Mike Tomlin, is known for turning challenging situations into opportunities. Pittsburgh’s acquisition of Fields reflects a broader strategy to rejuvenate their squad with flexible, talented players capable of filling multiple roles.
The idea of integrating a Kordell Stewart-like package for Fields has also been floated, reminiscent of Stewart’s versatile role during his tenure with the Steelers. This approach could allow Pittsburgh to utilize Fields’ running ability while keeping defenses guessing.
What does an NFL veteran think about a rookie QB starting?@shawnemerriman joins the Under Center Podcast to discuss expectations surrounding Caleb Williams, the challenges he will face and how he can win over Justin Fields fans
Full episode: https://t.co/QHcjgcYIlA pic.twitter.com/UYzFDZ5vS7
— Bears Talk (@NBCSBears) May 8, 2024
The Future of Justin Fields and the Pittsburgh Steelers
As the Steelers approach their 2024 training camp, the quarterback landscape appears significantly improved. Russell Wilson, with his extensive experience and Super Bowl background, paired with Fields, who is eager to move past his challenges in Chicago, promises a compelling season.
The Steelers are setting the stage for both quarterbacks to exceed their previous performances, backed by a robust defense and a formidable rushing attack led by Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren.
In a city renowned for its steel and strength, both on and off the field, Justin Fields has a unique opportunity to redefine his NFL career. Whether as a quarterback or in a new, innovative role, Fields’ journey in Pittsburgh will be one to watch, as the Steelers aim to harness his full potential and perhaps, in the process, alter the landscape of quarterback utilization in the NFL.
