The Steelers starting quarterback spot will be one of the most discussed topics of the NFL offseason, and for good reason. The combination of Justin Fields and Russell Wilson got them off to a 10-3 start, but it all fell apart down the stretch as they lost five consecutive games. With both set to his free agency, Pittsburgh has the option to look elsewhere for a new QB1.
Several options have already been linked to the Steelers, including the likes of Sam Darnold, Aaron Rodgers, and Matthew Stafford. They could also look to add a rookie in this year's draft, even with consensus being lower on the passers in this class. While all of these options could potentially be an upgrade compared to the play they got in 2024, a familiar face still makes the most sense for 2025.
Justin Fields should be the Steelers starting QB in 2025
Right off the bat, I am not saying that Justin Fields is the best QB that the Steelers could sign or trade for this offseason. He was solid in his six starts for the team in 2024, but guys like Darnold, Rodgers, and Stafford have either more upside or experience. Even so, Fields makes the most sense as the Steelers starter in 2025 for a myriad of reasons.
First and foremost, his familiarity with the scheme and players is valuable for a young offense. With Arthur Smith sticking around despite getting head coach interviews, Fields would have a full offseason to prepare as a starter in the same offense he just showed real improvements in. It would allow the offense to have a higher floor as well thanks to his ability as a runner, something they sorely missed during their losing streak.
He will also likely be the cheapest option among their potential targets despite being the youngest of that group. Over the Cap has his valuation at just under $6.5 million, basically nothing compared to what even some backups around the league are making. While I think his actual contract will be closer to the $10 million range, that is still a bargain if he is even a decent starter in 2025.
The most important reason why Fields is the right choice for 2025 isn't any of that, however. It's the combination of his potential upside and the flexibility it offers the Steelers in 2026 and beyond. If Fields lights it up in 2025 on a cheap deal, then the Steelers will happily pay up to make him their franchise QB. If he doesn't, they could try and retain him as their bridge QB and take a swing at QB in the 2026 draft.
The only other option at QB that would provide similar flexibility is Rodgers, but he brings too much drama and potential to fall apart at age 41 after a poor season with the Jets. With all factors accounted for, Fields checks the right boxes to be the ideal choice for the Steelers in 2025.