The latest contract projections for Justin Fields suggest the Steelers could retain their backup quarterback at a discount rate. Pittsburgh's quarterback situation is particularly intriguing heading into the 2025 offseason, with two experienced unrestricted free-agent quarterbacks set to hit the free-agent market.
The most prominent of these quarterbacks, Russell Wilson, led the Steelers to a 10-7 record in 2024, but his role in the team’s five-game losing streak to finish the season has raised serious questions about his future with the franchise.
Wilson’s performance became a major point of contention. Despite leading the team to a winning record, his inconsistency during critical moments, especially during the late-season slump, has made it clear that the Steelers are considering a change in the position.
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In contrast, backup quarterback Justin Fields, who started before Wilson, has shown promise but remains a work in progress.
Justin Fields is a safe investment for the Steelers in 2025
Fields’ 2024 season was marked by his 4-2 record as a starter, a notable improvement over Wilson’s late-season struggles. Fields accumulated 1,106 passing yards and 10 touchdowns during his time under center, providing an immediate spark to the Steelers’ offense.
His ability to make plays on the ground, with both his legs and arm, helped mitigate turnovers and gave the Steelers an added dimension on offense. His dynamic playmaking ability was enough to excite both his coaches and teammates, but the team remains unsure if Fields is the quarterback of the future.
One factor contributing to this uncertainty is the current state of his contract negotiations. The latest contract projection rumors suggest Fields could receive a one-year deal worth $9 million. This short-term commitment suggests that the team is still in the evaluation phase, wanting to see if Fields can maintain consistency and continue to develop before locking him in for the long haul.
Given his strong performances in the first half of the 2024 season and his adaptability in running offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s system, the Steelers seem ready to give him another shot.
Though the deal is not finalized, Fields has shown enough to warrant another year in Pittsburgh. His leadership in the locker room and playmaking ability earned him the trust of his teammates. The Steelers appear willing to take one more season to evaluate Fields fully, offering him the opportunity to prove that he can be their long-term solution at quarterback.
If Fields can continue to improve and avoid the mistakes that plagued Wilson late in the season, Pittsburgh may have found their future at the position. For now, the franchise is putting its faith in Fields for one more season, with an eye toward a brighter future under center.