The time is now: Steelers must make a quarterback choice this week

The Steelers new look quarterback room hasn’t gone to plan this year. The hope was for Russell Wilson to provide a stable presence in the room while Justin Fields would back him up. Because of multiple injuries though, Wilson has yet to play a snap and Fields has been the guy while he got healthy.

Health is no longer an issue though, as Wilson is fully recovered as evidenced by his status in the Raiders game. The Steelers still used the health card to justify not starting Wilson though, but that excuse can’t continue. It is time for Pittsburgh to make their quarterback choice for the remainder of the season.

This back-and-forth every week about who is going to start doesn’t help anyone. Wilson is healthy, but the team has been winning with Fields. The time is now to cement your choice though. There are certainly arguments for both sides.

Why the Steelers should stick with Justin Fields

While it wasn’t a part of the plan, Fields has done a good job at quarterback for the Steelers. There are a few caveats to this, but for the most part, he has done everything that you have asked him to do. Most importantly, he hasn’t been very mistake-prone, which has kept Pittsburgh alive in every game this year.

His best trait right now is his ability as a runner. He was always dynamic on the ground in Chicago, and through six games he has proved to be a potent runner. He has 231 yards on the ground and a team-leading five scores. His ability to run, especially when blocking breaks down or receivers can’t get open, has been a huge asset that Wilson no longer brings.

Fields also has a great deep pass. It is the best pass he throws in his arsenal. He has had quite a few dropped and called back because of penalties, but he has an accurate rifle when going deep, and I only wish the team would use him on more deep shots. He has also looked the part when the offense opened up, as was the case with the Colts game.

Why the Steelers should turn to Russell Wilson

While Fields has found a way to win, he still hasn’t become a dynamic passer. He is averaging around 165 yards per game through the air, and while the 4-2 record looks good, it won’t last if the offense doesn’t get better. I still blame the offensive playcalling, for the most part, but Fields has gotten worse in recent weeks with his accuracy and decision-making.

Wilson, in theory, would make that situation better. Unless my speculation is off, I think the team would open up the passing game more with Wilson (if they don’t, that is another issue entirely). If they refuse to do that with Fields, then now is the time to turn to Wilson. An offense like this isn’t sustainable long-term.

Personally, I think Fields makes the most sense still, but that is dependent on the offense finally opening up. If they are resigned to keeping the same reserved system in play because of Fields, then make the switch now.

We are officially at the point in the year that making your official quarterback choice needs to happen. This back-and-forth is good for no one. Announce your starter now and move forward with them. Open things up and roll with Fields or strive for a better passing attack and start Wilson. No matter who it is, a choice needs to be made.