The Pittsburgh Steelers finally have some drama surrounding the team and the quarterback position now that Russell Wilson has returned to full health. Justin Fields filled in for Wilson throughout the first six games of the season and led the team to a 4-2 record, but now the two are fighting for the starting job during the week of practice leading up to their home game against the New York Jets in Week 7. The fan base seems to be split between the two quarterbacks, while the coaching staff seems to be leaning towards starting Wilson.
Wilson obviously has loads of experience as a successful starting quarterback in the NFL, while Fields is still finding his way and progressing. Wilson may be the best option to win now, but there is potential for Fields to be the quarterback of the future in Pittsburgh. Another reason Fields is being considered to start over Wilson is his mobility, which has been extremely helpful with extending plays while the offensive line has struggled. Starting left tackle Dan Moore Jr. spoke to the media on Wednesday and seemed to show some support for Fields and his mobility in a video posted by Amanda Godsey.
"Yeah, I mean, it's huge for us when you got a guy like that that can make plays with his feet. You know it takes pressure off of us if we give up pressures or sack situations that he can get out of. Not only extend plays, but make plays out of it, so it helps us out tremendously, but yeah," said Moore.
Moore finished his statement, but looked like he wanted to say more, as he had a smirk on his face. Every trait that he described is something that the 35-year old Wilson cannot do as well anymore, especially coming off of a nagging calf injury. If Wilson does earn the starting job, it will be interesting to see how he holds up behind an offensive line that will now be missing its standout rookie center, Zach Frazier.
Head Coach Mike Tomlin has been a fan of Wilson for quite some time, and it seems he has always favored him in this quarterback competition. Fields put up a good fight during training camp to be named the starting quarterback, but Tomlin decided to go with Wilson. The only reason Fields got the opportunity to start the first six games of the year was because Wilson re-aggravated his calf injury.
Many believe Fields has played well enough to keep the starting job, and it seems as though the team and organization is completely bought in on him - besides Tomlin. His infatuation with Wilson has many within the organization that would rather see the coach stick with Fields upset and frustrated.
Steelers' Mike Tomlin Could Be Making A Mistake If He Starts Russell Wilson
There are pros and cons when it comes to starting either of the two quarterbacks. Fields obviously has the ability to escape the pocket and extend plays, and even put his shoulder down on designed runs. Wilson is a better passer and has more experience reading an NFL defense.
Unfortunately for the Steelers, the offensive line is too much of an issue right now to not have someone with the athleticism of Fields at quarterback. Frazier is out, fourth-round pick Mason McCormick is starting at right guard, and Broderick Jones looks lost at right tackle. Moore can even be a liability at left tackle. Putting Wilson behind that is not a recipe for success, and it could very well end up being a disaster.
Pittsburgh is currently 4-2 and has a good chance to make the playoffs, it would be a shame if this quarterback decision is what ruins the season.
