In a surprising decision, the Pittsburgh Steelers, led by head coach Mike Tomlin, switched quarterbacks before Week 7, improving their record to 5-2 and strengthening their Super Bowl hopes.
Russell Wilson stepped in to replace Justin Fields, who had recently led a 32-point game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Although Fields performed well, Tomlin opted for Wilson, now fully recovered from a hamstring injury. The move stirred criticism, including from Fox Sports’ Terry Bradshaw, who questioned Tomlin’s decision: “I would stay with Fields. Fields suits this team’s identity. They like running the ball, and he’s a big, strong quarterback who can pass too. I just don’t understand this choice.”
However, Tomlin’s decision seemed to pay off as Wilson led the Steelers to a decisive win, throwing three touchdowns with no interceptions and totaling 264 yards. While Fields contributed to previous victories, the Steelers’ defense often took center stage, and Fields hadn’t fully utilized receiver George Pickens, who had his best performance of the season under Wilson.
After the Steelers’ dominant win over the New York Jets, it looks like Wilson has secured the starting role, with Fields now as the primary backup. For now, this development resolves a long-standing QB controversy from the Steelers’ spring training, though it may not mark the end of Fields’ time in Pittsburgh.
“PATIENTLY WAITING!!!” Fields wrote in an Instagram story on October 25, just before the Week 8 game against the New York Giants. While Fields initially handled his demotion with professionalism, his post sparked questions about his feelings.
Reflecting on Fields’ Week 7 press conference, there was a clear note of disappointment, though it seemed directed at his own performance. “If I’m being honest, I don’t think I’ve played well enough,” he admitted on October 17. “I think if I had, there wouldn’t be any debate about who should play.”
Fields expressed gratitude for his opportunity to start and a drive to improve, saying, “[I try to] stay grateful for what I have but avoid complacency. Any setback will make me better as a player and person.”
