Even with veteran quarterback Russell Wilson suited up for the first time in the 2024 season, the Pittsburgh Steelers stuck with Justin Fields under center in their 32-13 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 6. However, that doesn’t mean Wilson’s future with the team is in jeopardy.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero shut down trade rumors, saying on October 13 that the Steelers aren’t looking to move Wilson. “There have been no trade talks surrounding Russell Wilson,” he stated, adding, “I don’t get the sense there’d really be an appetite to trade him even if the phone rings.” The word around Pittsburgh is that Wilson will see playing time “in the coming weeks.”
So, what’s going on in Pittsburgh’s quarterback room after the Week 6 win? Fields was active, but he didn’t exactly shine in the air, going 14-of-24 for just 145 yards, though he did rush for 59 yards and two touchdowns. His passer rating dropped to a season-low 75.9, but his QBR of 74.7 was his best mark of the year, thanks to his ground game. Fields’ dual-threat abilities are keeping the offense afloat, with five rushing touchdowns so far, but his struggles in the air leave the door cracked for Wilson to step in.
Fields’ inconsistencies are something to watch, but Pelissero highlighted a critical factor: Fields is “beloved” in the locker room. That’s huge for head coach Mike Tomlin, who could risk locker-room harmony by benching Fields just as the team achieved their biggest win margin since late last season.
The Steelers have a tough decision ahead. Fields has been helping them win, but his passing leaves something to be desired, averaging just 6.9 yards per pass attempt and a career-low 10.4 yards per completion. On the other hand, Wilson, who’s in his 13th NFL season, is still on standby. Missing or not playing in six games means Wilson might not start the minimum 14 contests this year—a first for him.
While Fields has his teammates’ support and is keeping the offense in check with his rushing, the Steelers might need Wilson’s experience down the stretch. For now, Tomlin has a balancing act on his hands: keeping the locker room happy with Fields while keeping Wilson ready to step in when needed.
