Russell Wilson is now winning the fight to be Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback next season. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin stated on Monday that Wilson is the team’s starter, but that newly acquired Justin Fields would have a chance to compete.
“We don’t mind competition, but I believe it’s important to create a strong position… Tomlin stated, “Russell has pole position.” “And why am I using that term?” Because, during this time when we are not formally working, I believe it is good. His expertise in the National Football League has sharpened and perfected his method.
“Over the course of a year, it is beneficial not only to him, but also to teams, receivers, tight ends, running backs, and so on. Russell has the means and framework to accomplish all that people who are truly devoted to winning do around this time of year. And that is why I feel he is in pole position. It simply generates a harmony that I believe is beneficial for this time of year. When it comes time to compete and we’re in training camp-like situations, going to stadiums, and so on, Justin will undoubtedly be given an opportunity to show people.”
The Steelers overhauled their quarterback room earlier this month, signing Wilson to the $1.2 million veteran’s minimum contract after the nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback was released by Denver.
Kenny Pickett, the team’s first-round draft pick in 2022, requested a trade following Wilson’s arrival, according to Tomlin. Pittsburgh traded him to Philadelphia and obtained Fields, a first-round pick in 2021, from Chicago in exchange for a conditional sixth-round selection in 2025.
The Steelers also allowed Mason Rudolph (Titans) and Mitch Trubisky (Bills) to walk in free agency.
The 35-year-old Wilson was 11-19 in two seasons with the Broncos after being acquired in a trade from Seattle. He bounced back from a dreadful 2022 season and threw for 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns and only eight interceptions, but still lost his job to Jarrett Stidham after going 7-8 in coach Sean Payton’s first season last year.
Wilson led Seattle to eight playoff appearances and a Super Bowl title in 10 seasons with the Seahawks.
“When the free agency process began, we only had one quarterback on our roster and so we were looking at every available person on the market,” Tomlin said in a statement. “It was simply part of our procedure. After Wilson was granted permission to speak, the conversation flowed naturally. He conducted appropriate research on us, and I believe that is one of the most impressive aspects of the procedure from my standpoint. His amount of preparedness in terms of knowing us, who we are, and how he may fit in just put us at rest throughout the process.”
Fields was 10-28 on poor Chicago squads but showed hints of becoming a dynamic player. He completed 60% of his throws while with the Bears, throwing 40 touchdowns and 30 interceptions. He also rushed for 2,220 yards and 14 touchdowns.
“He oozes talent and potential,” Tomlin added. “He’s taken on the responsibility of being a franchise quarterback, but he still has the opportunity to come into a community-like setting and learn from someone who has been doing it for over a decade. Man, there’s a lot of flesh remaining on that bone, and I’m really excited.”
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