Tag: Justin Fields

Steelers QB Justin Fields (literally) falls short of playing hero in Ravens win

Justin Fields provided a spark the struggling Pittsburgh Steelers offense needed, despite sliding short of the first-down marker.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields took the field for the first time since Russell Wilson regained his starting position ahead of Week 7. Known for his dual-threat ability, Fields provided a spark in critical moments for an offense that sometimes struggled to find rhythm.

With the final minute of the clock ticking down, Fields faked a hand-off to Najee Harris and took off upfield with one goal: Get a first down to end the game.

Unfortunately, Fields slid too early, ahead of the first-down marker and fell one yard short of playing hero in Pittsburgh’s win over Baltimore. On the ensuing play, Harris managed a play up the middle for the critical yard to seal the win.

What matters is that the Steelers won despite an anemic outing from the offense. The win keeps them in the AFC North lead and highlights what we already knew—Fields’ presence can provide a spark. Pittsburgh could have unlocked a new dimension of its offense just in time for the playoff push.

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Russell Wilson leads NFL QBs in one interesting statistic, per PFF

Pro Football Focus ranks Russell Wilson’s deep ball as the NFL’s most accurate. Can it push the Steelers past Baltimore in Week 11?

When in doubt, let Russ cook! Every week since the Pittsburgh Steelers made the polarizing decision to bench the 4-2 Justin Fields, current starting QB Russell Wilson has proved his deep ball to be a necessity for the Pittsburgh offense.

While Wilson will never match Fields’ athletic prowess with his legs, the infamous PFF has confirmed that Wilson’s deep ball is the most accurate in the NFL.

Hitting on over 50 percent of these deep throws, his ‘moon ball’ has truly transformed the offense as a whole, and begs the question: would the Pittsburgh Steelers currently be 9-0 if Wilson had started every contest this season?

Wilson’s deep ball should be on full display against the Ravens in Week 11, as the Steelers’ offense faces one of the worst statistical defensive units against the pass.

Against Baltimore on November 17th at 1:00 PM EST, Wilson has the opportunity to do what Fields couldn’t do with Pittsburgh: go 4-0 through his first four starts with the team.

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Russell Wilson describes his decision to sign with Pittsburgh Steelers

Russell Wilson credits a shared vision with Coach Tomlin and meetings with Steelers stars for his decision to join Pittsburgh in 2024.

You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take, and QB Russell Wilson didn’t miss his chance to join the Pittsburgh Steelers after his exit from Denver, ultimately driven by a shared vision with Pittsburgh. Wilson sat down with ESPN’s Hannah Storm and discussed his decision-making process in choosing to come to the Steel City.

Wilson described several prominent Steelers players who made sales pitches during the 2024 offseason, including fellow Walter Payton Man of the Year Award winner Cam Heyward, fellow Wisconsin alumnus T.J. Watt, and former All-Pro Minkah Fitzpatrick.

While playing with such elite talent seems like an offer too good to pass up, Wilson stated that his decision to sign with Pittsburgh stemmed from a shared vision with the team’s philosophy, including a similar football belief system: “I think Coach Tomlin and I share the same vision, love for the game, passion behind it, and obsession with it.”

While the success in the early chapters of the 2024 season can be credited to QB Justin Fields, no one can deny that Wilson helped make the Pittsburgh Steelers potential Super Bowl contenders.

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Steelers OC reveals plan for QB Justin Fields

The Steelers once again have a package of plays for Justin Fields.

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin made a huge move when he decided to bench quarterback Justin Fields in favor of Russell Wilson. The offense has come to life with Wilson at quarterback but the team has always left the door open for Fields to play in some special packages.

Up until now, Fields hasn’t gotten any snaps but when offensive coordinator Arthur Smith spoke to the media, he made sure to plant that seed in the heads of the Baltimore Ravens coaches.

As long as the Steelers are playing well, we don’t expect Smith or head coach Mike Tomlin to change a thing.

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Why the Steelers should keep Justin Fields over Russell Wilson

The Pittsburgh Steelers front office and Mike Tomlin have a critical decision to make after the 2024 NFL season comes to a close.

Omar Khan, Art Rooney II and Mike Tomlin have a critical decision to make after the 2024 NFL season comes to a close. I wrote on Monday about why the Pittsburgh Steelers should keep Russell Wilson over Justin Fields. There’s an equally intense case to be made for Fields over Wilson.

Fields presents a compelling choice over veteran Wilson as the Steelers’ front office considers their quarterback options. While Wilson’s experience is impressive, Fields offers distinct advantages that align with the Steelers’ long-term strategy and growth potential.

Justin Fields’ youth and long-term potential

At only 25, Fields has a decade-plus ahead of him, allowing the Steelers to invest in a young quarterback who can evolve within the team’s system. Fields’ age makes him a prime candidate to develop chemistry with younger Steelers players, creating a foundation for sustainable success. With Wilson approaching his 36, his prime years are behind him, while Fields is just beginning to tap into his potential.

Justin Fields’ athleticism and dual-threat ability

Fields is one of the most athletically gifted quarterbacks in the modern league. His dual-threat abilities make him a dangerous weapon in passing and rushing, adding a layer of unpredictability that could invigorate the Steelers’ offense. Fields’ skill set aligns with today’s NFL’s evolving nature, where quarterback mobility and versatility are key elements to an offense. His dynamic playing style would give Pittsburgh’s offense a new edge that would be harder to achieve with Wilson’s more traditional approach.

Justin Fields presents a cost-effective option

Financially, Fields is a more cost-effective choice. Should Fields finish his first season with the Steelers riding pine, there’s the backup quarterback label. Wilson’s veteran status and accomplishments could come with a significant price tag. Should Fields agree to stay with Pittsburgh on an affordable deal, it would allow the Steelers to allocate resources to other areas, such as continuing to strengthen their offensive line or adding elite receivers.

Choosing Fields over Wilson isn’t just about the present; it’s a forward-thinking decision. By committing to Fields, the Steelers can position themselves for future success with a talented, versatile young leader ready to define the next era of Pittsburgh football.

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Why the Steelers should keep Russell Wilson over Justin Fields

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin stuck to his guns with Russell Wilson, who could be the club’s quarterback in 2025.

The Pittsburgh Steelers, a franchise built on a legacy of strong leadership and consistent success, face a decision on which quarterback will lead their team in the coming years. While both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields bring unique talents, keeping Wilson could offer more immediate and sustainable benefits.

Russell Wilson brings experience and leadership

Wilson’s resume speaks for itself. As a Super Bowl champion and nine-time Pro Bowl selection, Wilson has proven he can perform at the highest level and lead a team under pressure. His experience is invaluable for a franchise like the Steelers, who are committed to winning and have a fan base that expects playoff contention each season. Wilson’s presence would stabilize the field and locker room, making him an ideal mentor to younger players and the perfect fit for a team focused on maintaining a winning culture.

Adaptability and consistency for Steelers

Wilson’s play style aligns with the Steelers’ offensive philosophy. Known for his adaptability and clutch performances, he can execute passing and rushing plays effectively, creating a versatile offensive scheme. While talented, Fields is still developing his skills at the pro level and, therefore, lacks the consistency that Wilson has honed over his career. Given the unpredictable nature of the NFL, Wilson’s ability to perform under any circumstance is a crucial asset.

Steelers’ short-term success and long-term growth

While Fields has potential, Wilson’s immediate impact is irrefutable. Keeping Wilson allows the Steelers to continue their pursuit of championships (one thing Cameron Heyward and T.J. Watt are without) without the uncertainties of developing a young quarterback. By building around Wilson, the Steelers can maintain a balance of veteran stability while gradually nurturing future talent.

In a league where experience and dependability are essential, the Steelers’ best option is to stick with Russell Wilson over Justin Fields.

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Steelers vs Commanders injury report: Latest updates, news for Week 10

All the latest updates, including QB Justin Fields, on the Pittsburgh Steelers’s injury report ahead of Week 10 game vs. the Commanders.

The Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2) return from their Week 9 bye and travel to Landover to take on the red-hot Washington Commanders (7-2).

In their last go-round, in 2020, the Commanders played spoiler by defeating the then-11-0 Steelers 23-17. It marked the start of a three-game losing streak, and Pittsburgh finished the 2024 season 1-5, including the playoffs.

Washington leads the head-to-head series 43-33-3 (all regular season).

The Steelers are relatively healthy coming off the bye week, with most injured players practicing at full capacity on Friday.

Here’s a look at the latest full injury and practice participation report:

Steelers injury report

Player Injury Wednesday Thursday Friday Game status
QB Justin Fields hamstring FP FP FP –
** WR Ben Skowronek shoulder FP FP FP Questionable
S Terrell Edmunds illness DNP DNP DNP Out
** LB Tyler Matakevich hamstring FP FP FP Questionable
LB Nick Herbig hamstring LP LP DNP Out
C Zach Frazier ankle FP FP FP –
G Isaac Seumalo NIR DNP FP FP –
RB Cordarrelle Patterson ankle FP FP FP –
TE MyCole Pruitt knee – DNP FP –
DT Cameron Heyward NIR – DNP FP –

** in the designated 21-day window to return from injured reserve

DNP: Did not practice

LP: Limited participation 

FP: Full participation

NIR: Not injury related

Commanders injury report

Player Injury Wednesday Thursday Friday Game status
TE Zach Ertz NIR DNP – – –
CB Marshon Lattimore hamstring DNP DNP DNP Out
T Cornelius Lucas ankle DNP DNP DNP Out
K Austin Seibert hip DNP LP LP Questionable
DE Dorance Armstrong shoulder LP LP LP –
C Tyler Biadasz thumb LP FP FP –
DE Clelin Ferrell knee LP DNP LP –
LB Dante Fowler groin LP LP FP –
RB Brian Robinson Jr. hamstring LP LP DNP Out
OL Andrew Wylie shoulder LP LP LP Questionable
CB Noah Igbinoghene thumb FP FP FP –
TE Colson Yankoff hamstring – LP DNP Out

DNP: Did not practice

LP: Limited participation 

FP: Full participation

NIR: Not injury related

Nick Herbig injury update

While there was some optimism that Nick Herbig would play after the Steelers’ bye week, he’s now sidelined for his fourth consecutive game with a hamstring injury.

Zach Frazier injury update

The rookie center, who sustained an ankle injury in the Steelers’ Week 6 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, has been a full practice participant this week. Frazier said in a Wednesday press conference, “It felt good to be out there. I’ve been rehabbing for a while… It’s just getting back in football shape. Trying to catch back up and then just trust in it again. I tested it. We kind of had some people bullrush me just to feel it.”

Cordarrelle Patterson injury update

The veteran running back and kick returner has been a full practice participant all week and, barring a setback during warm-ups, will play Sunday for the first time since Week 5.

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Steelers vs Commanders injury report: Latest updates, news for Week 10

All the latest updates, including QB Justin Fields, on the Pittsburgh Steelers’s injury report ahead of Week 10 game vs. the Commanders.

The Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2) return from their Week 9 bye and travel to Landover to take on the red-hot Washington Commanders (7-2).

In their last go-round, in 2020, the Commanders played spoiler by defeating the then-11-0 Steelers 23-17. It marked the start of a three-game losing streak, and Pittsburgh finished the 2024 season 1-5, including the playoffs.

Washington leads the head-to-head series 43-33-3 (all regular season).

The Steelers are relatively healthy coming off the bye week, with most injured players practicing at full capacity on Thursday.

Here’s a look at the latest full injury and practice participation report:

Steelers injury report

Player Injury Wednesday Thursday Friday Game status
QB Justin Fields hamstring FP FP
** WR Ben Skowronek shoulder FP FP
S Terrell Edmunds illness DNP DNP
** LB Tyler Matakevich hamstring FP FP
LB Nick Herbig hamstring LP LP
C Zach Frazier ankle FP FP
G Isaac Seumalo NIR DNP FP
RB Cordarrelle Patterson ankle FP
TE MyCole Pruitt knee – DNP
DT Cameron Heyward NIR – DNP

** in the designated 21-day window to return from injured reserve

DNP: Did not practice

LP: Limited participation 

FP: Full participation

NIR: Not injury related

Commanders injury report

Player Injury Wednesday Thursday Friday Game status
TE Zach Ertz NIR DNP –
CB Marshon Lattimore hamstring DNP DNP
T Cornelius Lucas ankle DNP DNP
K Austin Seibert hip DNP LP
DE Dorance Armstrong shoulder LP LP
C Tyler Biadasz thumb LP FP
DE Clelin Ferrell knee LP DNP
LB Dante Fowler groin LP LP
RB Brian Robinson Jr. hamstring LP LP
OL Andrew Wylie shoulder LP LP
CB Noah Igbinoghene thumb FP FP
TE Colson Yankoff hamstring – LP

DNP: Did not practice

LP: Limited participation 

FP: Full participation

NIR: Not injury related

Nick Herbig injury update

After missing the last three games with a hamstring injury, Herbig appears ready to go for Sunday’s Commanders matchup. He practiced in a limited capacity on both Wednesday and Thursday.

Zach Frazier injury update

The rookie center, who sustained an ankle injury in the Steelers’ Week 6 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, has been a full practice participant this week. Frazier said in a Wednesday press conference, “It felt good to be out there. I’ve been rehabbing for a while… It’s just getting back in football shape. Trying to catch back up and then just trust in it again. I tested it. We kind of had some people bullrush me just to feel it.”

MyCole Pruitt injury update

Pruitt, a first-year tight end of the Pittsburgh Steelers, is the newest name on the injury report. He’s been dealing with a knee injury on-and-off for most of the season.

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Steelers vs Commanders injury report: Latest updates, news for Week 10

All the latest updates, including QB Justin Fields, on the Pittsburgh Steelers’s injury report ahead of Week 10 game vs. the Commanders.

The Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2) return from their Week 9 bye and travel to Landover to take on the red-hot Washington Commanders (7-2).

In their last go-round, in 2020, the Commanders played spoiler by defeating the then-11-0 Steelers 23-17. It marked the start of a three-game losing streak, and Pittsburgh finished the 2024 season 1-5, including the playoffs.

Washington leads the head-to-head series 43-33-3 (all regular season).

The Steelers are relatively healthy coming off the bye week, with most injured players practicing at full capacity on Wednesday.

Here’s a look at the latest full injury and practice participation report:

Steelers injury report

Player Injury Wednesday Thursday Friday Game status
QB Justin Fields hamstring FP
** WR Ben Skowronek shoulder FP
S Terrell Edmunds illness DNP
** LB Tyler Matakevich hamstring FP
LB Nick Herbig hamstring LP
C Zach Frazier ankle FP
G Isaac Seumalo NIR DNP
RB Cordarrelle Patterson ankle FP

** in the designated 21-day window to return from injured reserve

DNP: Did not practice

LP: Limited participation 

FP: Full participation

NIR: Not injury related

Commanders injury report

Player Injury Wednesday Thursday Friday Game status
TE Zach Ertz NIR DNP
CB Marshon Lattimore hamstring DNP
T Cornelius Lucas ankle DNP
K Austin Seibert hip DNP
DE Dorance Armstrong shoulder LP
C Tyler Biadasz thumb LP
DE Clelin Ferrell knee LP
LB Dante Fowler groin LP
RB Brian Robinson Jr. hamstring LP
OL Andrew Wylie shoulder LP
CB Noah Igbinoghene thumb FP
DT Phidarian Mathis concussion FP

DNP: Did not practice

LP: Limited participation 

FP: Full participation

NIR: Not injury related

Justin Fields injury update

On Wednesday, Steelers backup quarterback Justin Fields (hamstring) was a full practice participant. Whether we’ll see him take any snaps this week is unclear, as Mike Tomlin was his usual vague self, saying on Tuesday, “I would always anticipate seeing that as long as [Fields and Wilson] are on our roster.”

Cordarrelle Patterson injury update

The bye week was good for Cordarelle Patterson, who missed the last four games due to an ankle injury. Before exiting early versus the Indianapolis Colts, Patterson ran well in Jaylen Warren’s place, averaging 7.17 yards per carry on six attempts for 43 yards. Patterson was also 2-for-2 on receptions for 19 yards.

Zach Frazier injury update

The bye week was also a much-needed break for Zach Frazier, who practiced fully on Wednesday. The rookie center was playing at a high level before sustaining an ankle injury in the Steelers’ Week 6 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.

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Steelers HC Mike Tomlin reveals loose plans for Justin Fields

As long as Justin Fields is on the Pittsburgh Steelers roster, expect him to be in consideration for game-time action. 

As long as Justin Fields is on the Pittsburgh Steelers roster, expect him to be in consideration for game-time action.

As for whether we’ll see a Fields package in this second half of the season, Mike Tomlin said today, “I would always anticipate seeing that as long as both guys are on our roster.”

A week after Russell Wilson was deemed the starter, Fields popped up on Pittsburgh’s injury report. It’s unknown when he suffered a hamstring injury since Fields wasn’t listed among the players after their final practice.

The Steelers made him the emergency No. 3 quarterback behind Kyle Allen for their Week 8 matchup with the New York Giants. “We didn’t want a small problem to become a big problem,” said Tomlin. “We designated him the third quarterback, but given the bye week and the week that’s ahead of us, we are not imagining that to be a problem.”

As usual, Tomlin said the Steelers would “let participation be our guide” regarding whether Fields will take any snaps versus the Washington Commanders.

There’s far too much talent to leave Fields on the sideline. Pittsburgh needs an injection of his dynamic play-making ability on offense.

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