NFL Insider blasts Steelers for QB Decision
Not everyone agrees with Pittsburgh Steelers’ quarterback selection.
The Pittsburgh Steelers don’t actually have a quarterback battle going on, but head coach Mike Tomlin won’t declare for sure whether it’s ended or never started. Russell Wilson remains in “pole position” to lead the offense in Week 1, and despite missing the most of training camp, it’s unlikely he’ll be benched.
Meanwhile, Justin Fields will open the season as a backup after moving from Chicago. He had a few exciting moments throughout training camp and the preseason, but Pittsburgh’s offense has struggled in exhibition games.
NFL insider Mike Florio criticized the Steelers’ choice not to start Fields on 93.7 The Fan, calling it “crazy” to do so.
“I don’t know what the Steelers are thinking, but I think it’d be crazy not to go with Justin Fields looking at that offense,” Florio told reporters. “How the offensive line is playing. Add to that Jaylen Warren’s likely season-ending injury. Where are you getting the burst? Where do you obtain your acceleration? Where do you derive your excitement? “You get it from Justin Fields.”
Fields nor Wilson have been able to lead a touchdown drive during the Steelers’ preseason games, but the team isn’t too worried. Wilson’s calf injury is seemingly holding offensive coordinator Arthur Smith back from expanding the playbook, but the veteran QB isn’t expected to have any limitations come Week 1.
Florio, however, disagrees, pointing out that while Wilson is the more trustworthy option, Fields has more sparkle.
“There was a lot more excitement when Justin Fields played. And if the offense isn’t going to be what it needs to be, go with the man who gives you the potential to create things. “When protection fails, when the called play fails, you need a guy who can improvise with his legs,” Florio said.
The Steelers are anticipated to make a decision following the last preseason game, but it would be remarkable if Wilson did not get the job. Even if not everyone supports the decision.
