The Pittsburgh Steelers’ Quarterback Conundrum: Wilson vs. Fields
The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2024 season with a glaring question mark at quarterback. Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement leaves a void that needs to be filled and Kenny Pickett could not fill that gap previous season, so two intriguing options have emerged: veteran gunslinger Russell Wilson (via potential trade) and young, athletic prospect Justin Fields (also via potential trade).
When their defense got them to the postseason last year, the Steelers supporters were furious with their offense because Kenny Pickett was unable to take advantage of the chance to provide the team a deeper playoff run and some memorable offensive moments. The Steelers organization lost faith in Kenny as a result, and they traded for these two quarterbacks.
This analysis dives deeper into both quarterbacks, comparing their past performances and suitability within the Steelers’ system to determine who might be the better fit.
Russell Wilson: Proven Veteran with Declining Skills?
Russell Wilson boasts a decorated career. A Super Bowl champion with the Seattle Seahawks, Wilson has established himself as one of the league’s most successful quarterbacks. Here’s a closer look at his strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths:
- Elite Processing: Wilson possesses a rare combination of intelligence, anticipation, and quick decision-making. He excels at reading defenses pre-snap and finding open receivers quickly.
- Deep Ball Accuracy: Wilson has a cannon for an arm and can consistently deliver pinpoint throws downfield. This opens up the entire playbook and creates explosive opportunities.
- Mobility and Scrambling Ability: Though not as fleet-footed as he once was, Wilson remains a dangerous scrambler. He can extend plays outside the pocket and buy time for his receivers to get open.
- Leadership and Experience: Wilson is a proven leader who commands respect in the locker room. His experience in big games and ability to stay calm under pressure are invaluable assets.
Weaknesses:
- Regression in Recent Years: Wilson’s performance has dipped in recent seasons, particularly in Denver. Injuries, a weak offensive line, and a struggling supporting cast have all contributed.
- Accuracy Concerns: While known for his deep ball accuracy, Wilson’s overall completion percentage has declined. Short and intermediate throws haven’t been as crisp as in his prime.
- Limited Running Ability: Father Time has caught up to Wilson. His scrambling ability, while still a threat, isn’t as dynamic as it once was. This can make him more susceptible to sacks behind a shaky offensive line.
- High Trade Cost: Acquiring Wilson would likely require a hefty trade package, including high draft picks. This could limit the Steelers’ ability to address other needs on the roster.
Past Performance:
Here’s a breakdown of Wilson’s key stats over the past three seasons (2021-2023):
| Year | Games Started | Completion % | Passing Yards | Passing TDs | Interceptions | Rushing Yards | Rushing TDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 (Seahawks) | 14 | 65.9% | 3,158 | 25 | 6 | 512 | 2 |
| 2022 (Broncos) | 15 | 65.9% | 3,891 | 25 | 11 | 405 | 2 |
| 2023 (Broncos) | 12 | 60.5% | 3,298 | 16 | 10 | 287 | 3 |
Justin Fields: High Potential with Raw Talent
Justin Fields, the former first-round pick by the Chicago Bears, represents a different type of quarterback. Here’s a look at his strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths:
- Dynamic Running Ability: Fields is a phenomenal athlete with elite speed and mobility. He can escape pressure with ease and extend plays with his legs, creating big-play opportunities.
- Strong Arm: While not quite on par with Wilson’s deep ball prowess, Fields possesses a strong arm that allows him to make all the throws.
- Developing Passing Skills: Fields has shown flashes of impressive passing talent, particularly in the short-to-intermediate throws. With more experience and refinement, he could develop into a well-rounded quarterback.
- Age and Upside: At just 24 years old, Fields possesses immense potential for growth. He has the raw talent to become a truly elite quarterback in the league.
Weaknesses:
- Limited Experience: Fields has only two seasons under his belt, both with a struggling Chicago Bears team. He’s still learning the nuances of the NFL game, including reading defenses and making quick decisions.
- Accuracy Issues: Fields needs to improve his overall accuracy. He tends to miss open receivers at times and struggles with touch on certain throws.
- Decision-Making: Fields can be prone to forcing throws and making bad decisions under pressure. This leads to interceptions and can stall offensive drives.
- Offensive Line Dependence: Fields relies heavily on his mobility to escape pressure. Behind a weak line, he could struggle
Consclusion:
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