Are we stuck in a time loop, or is this déjà vu from last offseason? The whole of July and August before the ’24 season, we have heard the Russell Wilson vs. Justin Fields. Now, as the Steelers come to an early end, the debate is back… Heated up like it never cooled down. You see, it all started when Russ and Sean Payton couldn’t coexist in Denver. That fallout landed Wilson in Pittsburgh, and for a moment, it seemed like the Steelers had struck gold.
Mike Tomlin made it clear: “Russell Wilson is QB1.” But as the season played out, the highs of a 6-1 run turned into a 6-6 skid. And now, just a week after their Wild Card loss to Baltimore, the Steelers face the same ol’ QB dilemma. But maybe, just maybe, this time the outcome might be different.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Gerry Dulac has stirred the pot, suggesting Justin Fields could be the Steelers’ starter in 2025: “With the way the season ended with five consecutive losses and a disconnect existing with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, that deal might not materialize. Wilson was brought here to help end the playoff victory drought. And it didn’t happen. Bringing in another veteran quarterback does not make sense. That’s why Fields, in all likelihood, will be given the job.”
At 36, Wilson’s experience shines in areas like passing yardage and touchdowns. But Fields, at just 25, offers more upside, especially with his mobility. Dulac nailed it when he pointed out, “This will be the third time in the past four years the Steelers head into the offseason with uncertainty at quarterback.” How much longer can Pittsburgh fans endure this?
— Blitzburgh (@Blitz_Burgh) January 18, 2025
However, the Steelers’ front office has cleared their stance: Tomlin will take the reins, next season. SIGH! But the pain doesn’t stop there for Pittsburgh. Even Russ is not ready to throw in the towel just yet. Ah, sh-t! Here we go again…
So, after that gut-punch loss to the Ravens, Russell Wilson said, “That’s the plan. I love it here in Pittsburgh… I think we have a great football team. Obviously, it didn’t end the way we wanted it to, and I think there’s a lot more to do.” You gotta love the guy’s optimism.