The Pittsburgh Steelers have faced an ongoing quarterback debate ever since they brought in Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Although Wilson was named the starter, a calf injury has kept him sidelined for all six of the Steelers' 2024 games. While it hasn't been officially announced, all signs point to Wilson returning as the starter for the Week 7 Sunday night matchup against the New York Jets.
Fields, who has filled in during Wilson’s absence, made comments on Thursday acknowledging that he didn’t perform well enough to keep the job. However, his teammates have pushed back against that notion, showing support for Fields and the job he’s done while leading the team. Despite the quarterback competition, there is clear respect for Fields within the locker room.
When Najee Harris was asked what Wilson can offer that Fields can’t, he took a moment before responding. Harris then gave a spirited defense of Fields, standing up for his teammate and emphasizing the unique value Fields brings to the offense.
"We got to actually game plan," Harris said. "I mean, you guys focus so much on one player, as if—it's all 11 of us. You guys are worried about the quarterback, but I'm worried about all 11, the quarterback, and the line and the receivers, and the running back, you know? I mean, so Russ being out there, I mean, he got to do the same thing that Justin's doing. Justin’s been doing a great job for us. This is the best start that I think I had throughout my years being here."
Harris has been known to get defensive with the media on occasion. Just last Sunday, after the Steelers' win over the Las Vegas Raiders, he pushed back against reporters, later admitting that he tends to tell it like it is and sometimes has to hold back during interviews because he’s too comfortable and speaks his mind.
This time, however, Harris didn’t hold back. He made it clear that Fields did a great job, even going so far as to say that this is the best start to a season he’s been a part of in his four years with Pittsburgh. Harris continued to show strong support for Fields, leaving no doubt about his confidence in the quarterback.
"I saw some comments that Justin said about him not doing the best that he can," Harris said. "I think that he did the best he possibly can. I think he did a really good job—and he shouldn't—Well, I know he's trying to—but, just me saying publicly that we're all proud of him and don't be so hard on yourself. We got your back. I got your back. But, you know, I think that all 11 of us gotta pitch in and be in there, because we need both of them for sure."
Harris' response was thoughtful and exemplified the type of leader and teammate he is. He emphasized the importance of both quarterbacks, highlighting their strengths without focusing on any negatives.
It's clear Harris has enjoyed playing with Fields through the first six games of the season, appreciating what Fields brings to the offense.
Steelers' Najee Harris Could Have A Huge Game With Russell Wilson At QB
If Wilson starts on Sunday, it could also benefit Harris. While many expected Harris to have a career year, he had been slightly above average before his breakout performance against the Raiders. The running back room has been hit with significant injuries, placing more responsibility on Harris, and the offensive line has been severely affected by injuries as well.
With Fields at quarterback, defenses are forced to account for his mobility, which has led to stacked boxes. If Wilson returns as the starter, the Steelers are likely to open up the passing attack, which could lighten the box and create more space for Harris to be productive out of the backfield.
It’s refreshing to hear Harris speak so highly of Fields. The maturity Fields showed on Thursday when discussing the possibility of losing his starting job, combined with the strong support from his teammates, underscores how well-respected he is in the locker room. Even if Wilson starts, Fields will still have plenty of opportunities to prove he can be the future of the franchise.
