The Pittsburgh Steelers had a golden opportunity to secure their future at quarterback but failed to do so. By failing to re-sign Justin Fields during the 2025 NFL offseason, the organization may have cost itself a chance at long-term stability and championship contention.
Fields was one of the most talented quarterbacks available in free agency and had shown significant growth during his lone season in Pittsburgh. Despite flashes of brilliance, the Steelers’ indecision allowed him to slip away to the New York Jets, leaving Pittsburgh's quarterback room in limbo.
When the Steelers acquired Fields in 2024, it was clear they saw potential in the former first-round pick. Though he had struggled in Chicago, his athleticism and playmaking ability were undeniable. Under Mike Tomlin’s guidance, Fields refined his passing skills and showed a hunger for greatness.
After taking over as the starting quarterback, he posted a respectable 4-2 record, positioning the Steelers as serious contenders in the AFC North. His dual-threat ability added a dynamic element to the offense that had been missing in recent years.
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However, despite his success, Fields was benched in Week 7 against the New York Jets in favor of veteran Russell Wilson. The decision was puzzling, considering Fields’ positive trajectory and the energy he brought to the team.
Typically, a midseason benching signals a quarterback’s struggles, but Fields had been progressing well. The move raised eyebrows, and as the season played out, it proved costly.
With Wilson at the helm, the Steelers suffered a late-season collapse, losing their final five games. The once-promising campaign turned into a disappointment, and Pittsburgh missed the playoffs. Wilson’s struggles were evident, and his inability to lead the team to victories left fans questioning the decision to sideline Fields.
When the 2025 offseason arrived, both quarterbacks were set to hit free agency. Given Wilson’s decline and the poor finish, Fields was the obvious choice for Pittsburgh’s future. At just 26 years old, he offered a long-term solution at the most critical position in football.
Yet, instead of locking him up with a new deal before free agency, the Steelers hesitated—ultimately opening the door for another team to swoop in.
Letting Justin Fields walk is a huge mistake by the Pittsburgh Steelers' front office
As free agency opened, Fields became one of the most sought-after quarterbacks on the market. Despite Pittsburgh’s need for a young, dynamic passer, they failed to make a compelling offer. By the afternoon, Fields had signed a two-year, $40 million contract with the New York Jets.
The Jets, who valued his talent and potential, promised him the starting job—something the Steelers never committed to.
Now, Pittsburgh finds itself in an unenviable position. With Fields gone, the front office is left to choose between aging veterans like Aaron Rodgers or bringing back Wilson, neither of whom offers long-term security. If neither pans out in 2025, the Steelers must start from scratch at quarterback or invest in an aging veteran again. An avoidable had they committed to Fields.
Letting Fields walk squandered a chance to build a future dynasty. He had already proven he could win in their system, and with further development, he could have been the franchise quarterback Pittsburgh has been searching for. Instead, their reluctance to invest in him has left them scrambling for answers.
I believe the Steelers were willing to pay Fields but hesitant to promise him the starting role. Fields was receiving love from other franchises and invested in himself in the end.
The question remains: Can Pittsburgh recover from this mistake, or will this decision haunt them?