NFL insider has eye opening prediction for Steelers quarterback situation

After all of the offseason chatter, whispers and rumors, the Pittsburgh Steelers have their starting quarterback identified. Recently, head coach Mike Tomlin announced that Russell Wilson had won the job over Justin Fields.

But, this situation is far from crystal clear. In fact, starting Wilson over Fields could have been a strategic move by Tomlin for when the former inevitably starts to struggle.

One NFL insider seems to think so, at least. And, it makes sense.

Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer commented on the Steelers' quarterback situation in his latest column, and detailed why he believes the decision was made to start Wilson.

"... it does make sense for Pittsburgh to start the season with Russell Wilson at quarterback. If the coaches think it’s close, and they do, and there’s doubt with each guy, it’s logical to give yourself two shots at getting the most important position on the field right," Breer wrote.

Wilson might start the season, but which quarterback does the team actually believe in? That's where there could be a major difference.

And, the answer is: Fields.

There are several reasons why we've written that it's only a matter of time before Fields takes the job from Wilson, but the most important one is what Breer went on to touch on.

Internally, there is a preference for Justin Fields over Russell Wilson

What if it doesn't work out with Wilson under center? The answer is obvious, of course. But, Breer wrote that it not only makes sense to go from Wilson to Fields, but that the team also likes and respects the former Chicago Bear:

"If it doesn’t work? Well, this is a roster that’s been through change at quarterback in consecutive seasons already and a roster, I’m told, that really likes and respects Fields."

It is interesting to note that Breer didn't say anything about the roster liking Wilson. That seems to fit the bill, though. After his ugly exit from Seattle and wearing out his welcome with Sean Payton in Denver, many wondered whether or not these were 'Russell Wilson problems,' or other various reasons as to why it didn't work out in both instances.

The fact that the team likes Fields, though, is not surprising. Since coming into the league, he's been a fairly softspoken player and someone who puts his head down and works. He is a likable player, so the fact the locker room is growing close to Fields shouldn't be a news flash.

After all is said and done, this all seems to be working out how it should have. Once again, it does make sense for the Steelers to start Wilson. Going from the aging veteran to a younger quarterback, still with potential, is a lot more sensible than the other way around.

How long will Wilson remain the starter? That's the big question we're all asking, now. And, the pressure on Wilson's shoulders has to be larger than life itself.