The Pittsburgh Steelers had a dramatic offseason at quarterback. It began with the surprise signing of Russell Wilson to a one-year deal for the veteran minimum, a move that immediately upset then-starting quarterback Kenny Pickett. Frustrated, Pickett requested a trade, and the Steelers soon capitalized on another opportunity, acquiring Justin Fields in a trade.
The quarterback battle between Wilson and Fields quickly became a major storyline. Throughout the offseason, it appeared that Wilson would secure the starting role, and this was confirmed when he was named the Week 1 starter. However, a lingering calf injury sidelined Wilson, giving Fields the opportunity to step in.
Since taking over, Fields has led the Steelers to a 2-0 start, a significant milestone in his career. For the first time, Fields is not only winning games but also avoiding costly turnovers. In a media session, through a team-provided transcript, Fields reflected on his initial reaction to the trade and how much his perspective has shifted since arriving in Pittsburgh.
"I think it's definitely a blessing being here," Fields said. "It was kind of bittersweet when I first got here, but I was happy to come to an organization like this, and I couldn't be happier now. So I'm just glad to get the opportunity to go out there Sunday onto the field and hope to come out with a few more wins."
When the Steelers traded for Fields, the plan seemed clear: they wanted him to learn from Wilson. Pittsburgh appeared set to use Wilson as their starting quarterback while grooming Fields as the future of the franchise. However, Wilson’s recurring calf injury opened the door for Fields to step in, and he has made the most of every opportunity since.
Fields has remained optimistic throughout the transition. After three underwhelming seasons with the Chicago Bears, many had written him off, but his confidence never wavered. Now, in Pittsburgh, that perseverance is paying off. Fields has impressed both fans and critics with his performance so far, and his positivity through adversity has been a key part of his resurgence.
"Everybody goes through life, planning for something to happen one way, and then it goes another way. But God has his own plans, and I'm just here to kind of go with it and kind of do His will. So like I said, I'm happy to be here and happy to be a part of this team."
Fields hasn’t been asked to do too much as a passer, but when Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith has let him air it out, he’s delivered.
Fields has made several pinpoint throws and developed strong chemistry with Steelers star wide receiver George Pickens, a connection that has Steeler Nation buzzing with excitement.
Steelers' Justin Fields Has Been Respectable Through 2 Games
In his first two games, Fields has completed 69.8% of his passes for 273 yards and one touchdown. Beyond his accuracy, he’s impressed with his athleticism and ability to scramble when necessary. While he hasn’t relied heavily on his legs, Fields has been smart and selective when choosing to run, adding another dynamic to Pittsburgh’s offense.
Steelers fans are still waiting for the offense to start putting up more points, but for now, they’ve done just enough to control games and secure wins. Fields has been solid, delivering everything asked of him to help the team succeed. The real question will arise when Wilson returns to full health.
For now, it looks like Fields will remain the starter for Week 3. If he leads the Steelers to a third straight win, some pundits are beginning to wonder if Wilson will ever reclaim the job. The quarterback situation in Pittsburgh is becoming both exciting and increasingly intriguing.
