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Steelers Will Give Justin Fields Opportunity
The Pittsburgh Steelers are going to make sure Justin Fields gets a shot.
ORLANDO -- The Pittsburgh Steelers are rolling with Russell Wilson as their starting quarterback, head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed, but that doesn't rule out a chance for Justin Fields when the time is right.
Speaking at the NFL Owner's Meetings, Tomlin confirmed the reports that Wilson will get the first opportunity to start for the Steelers in 2024.
"Russell's in pole position," he told local reporters. "I think his body of work justifies that."
But there's still a chance for Fields, when the time is right. Speaking about how he's excited to get to know more about Fields's game and what he can bring to team, Tomlin didn't shoot down the possibility that the fourth-year quarterback becomes a part of the Steelers' plans.
"Rest assured, when it's time to compete, Justin will be given an opportunity to compete and we'll allow those guys to sort themselves out, but I thought it was appropriate to describe it in a way that I described as we get started."
Fields, 25, is entering the final year of his rookie deal, and the Steelers are not expected to pick up his fifth-year option. Despite Wilson starting, the veteran is also operating on a one-year deal in Pittsburgh, leaving both players as options moving forward.
Tomlin said he hasn't thought about what comes after this upcoming season - a typical response from the Steelers head coach. If Fields is going to prove himself, he'll have to do so behind Wilson, likely while also trying to learn from the Super Bowl champion.
From there, anything is on the table.
