The Pittsburgh Steelers have staked their claim to the immediate future, anointing Russell Wilson as their starting quarterback and maybe more, as per reports from an NFL insider. Despite drawing comparisons to the electrifying Lamar Jackson, Justin Fields finds himself relegated to backup duties, at least for now. This bold move signals the Steelers’ prioritization of experience as they gear up for an intriguing 2024 campaign.

In a strategic deal that has fans buzzing, Pittsburgh secured the services of the athletic Fields, igniting discussions about the team’s long-term plans at the quarterback position. While some envision Fields as the heir apparent, the Steelers might have made their intentions clear about Russ’s future.

Russell Wilson to stay longer, confirms NFL Insider

Amidst the fanfare surrounding Wilson’s acquisition, the Steelers’ long-term vision has also raised eyebrows. Rich Eisen expressed disbelief at Gerry Dulac’s revelation that “the intention is to sign Russ long-term at the end of the year,” questioning the prudence of such a move given Wilson’s recent struggles. However, Dulac provided clarity, stating, “It is Russ’s intention, what I’ve been told, and the Steelers’ intention…that they want to do a longer deal.”

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While the specifics of this potential extension remain unclear, with Dulac admitting, “I don’t know what longer means,” the Steelers’ resolute stance contrasts with their approach to Fields. As Dulac bluntly put it, “The Steelers are not going to pick up his option, they’re not expected to pick up his option.” This suggests the Steelers view Wilson as their cornerstone for the foreseeable future.

“Apparently Justin Fields has been told there’s no open competition – you will be the backup to Russell Wilson,” stated Gerry Dulac about the team that has decision to hand the starting quarterback reins to the battle-tested Russell Wilson, relegating the promising Justin Fields to a backup role.

While unorthodox for a player with merely days under his belt with the franchise, the Steelers’ prioritization of Wilson is rooted in a desire for stability and leadership. His nine Pro Bowl selections and inherited hefty contract from Denver lend credence to Pittsburgh’s firm stance. However, this decision also comes from Fields’ relatively unproven track record, having mustered just 11 wins across three seasons with the Bears, per Statmuse. But other perspectives regarding his future are also floating around.

The Lamar Jackson comparison and Steelers’ strategic deal unpacked!

As the Steelers faithful grapple with the team’s quarterback situation, comparisons between Fields and Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson have added an intriguing layer to the conversation. Speaking on his show, Pat McAfee highlighted the similarities, stating, “Their stats being presented down to Pittsburgh Steelers fans that he’s basically Lamar Jackson. Yards per attempt: Lamar Jackson 7.8, Justin Fields 6.8.”

McAfee’s statistical insights don’t stop there. He further delved into Fields’ prowess as a rushing threat, an attribute that evokes shades of Jackson’s game-breaking ability. “Justin Fields 1376 rush yards… almost 1400 yards,” McAfee exclaimed, pointing out how he exceeds even Jackson there and driving home the point that the Steelers have secured a multi-dimensional talent in Fields.

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While the comparisons to the elusive Jackson are enticing, the Steelers’ acquisition of Fields represents a calculated gamble that extends beyond on-field heroics. By parting ways with a conditional 2025 sixth-round pick, a selection that could escalate to a fourth-rounder based on Fields’ playing time, Pittsburgh has positioned itself to extract maximum value from a relatively modest investment.

This cost-effective maneuvering is emblematic of the Steelers’ broader strategy, one that has seen them capitalize on Denver’s willingness to facilitate Russell Wilson’s departure. With the Broncos shouldering a staggering $39 million of Wilson’s salary, Pittsburgh secured the veteran’s services for a mere $1.21 million, the league’s minimum for a player of his tenure.

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