Update: Is Justin Fields’ signing with the Steelers official?
On the plus side, they can keep building around Justin Fields, a recent first-round selection who has improved throughout his three seasons in Chicago and displayed flashes of greatness.
Alternatively, they might select Caleb Williams of USC with the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, then trade Fields to a team in need of a quarterback in order to acquire more draft capital to further assemble a roster around their new franchise quarterback.
Should the Bears go for the latter course, where may Fields end up?
Regarding Fields’ potential suitability for the Pittsburgh Steelers and new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, SI’s Albert Breer was recently questioned.
During his tenure as an offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, Smith worked with Ryan Tannehill, Marcus Mariota, and Jake Locker. The coach had Matt Ryan, Mariota, and Desmond Ridder with the Atlanta Falcons. Over the years, he has therefore developed an approach that can be adjusted to fit the needs of any quarterback he may have.
Apart from players who have played there, like Mike Vrabel, Mike Tomlin is the NFL coach with the strongest ties to Ohio State. He will therefore have the inside scoop on Fields and be aware of how to maximize his potential.
When all is said and done, I believe that Fields would be better off signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he would join a rivalry with Kenny Pickett, in addition to having a potent bunch of skill players surrounding him and an advancing offensive line. It would, in my opinion, benefit the Steelers as well, providing them with two chances as opposed to one to identify a long-term solution at the position.
Fields seems like a good match in Pittsburgh, and the Steelers clearly need to upgrade at quarterback. Even though Kenny Pickett was selected with a first-round choice just two years ago, the hometown product has suffered from injuries and, even when healthy, has not appeared to be a reliable starter.
It wouldn’t be shocking to see the Steelers reach a pre-draft agreement with Chicago if the price is right, offering Fields a new beginning with a team that could finally elevate their offense and play to his abilities.