The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a crucial decision at the game’s most important position. After a season of sharing duties between two talented quarterbacks, Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, owner Art Rooney II has made it clear that the team’s top priority this offseason is securing one of them with a long-term deal.
“It’s probably unlikely (that we bring back both),” Rooney stated, acknowledging that Fields and Wilson both see themselves as starters who may not want to continue splitting snaps. The Steelers now find themselves at a pivotal quarterback crossroads, needing to choose between two promising options to lead the franchise into the future.
The Case for Fields vs. Wilson
In one corner is Justin Fields, the electrifying 26-year-old who helped spark the Steelers to a 4-2 start while Wilson was sidelined with an injury. Fields’ dynamic playmaking ability and upside make him an intriguing long-term investment.
On the other side is Russell Wilson, the seasoned veteran who authored an impressive 6-1 stretch as the starter before stumbling late. At age 36, Wilson may have fewer prime years left than Fields, but his experience and leadership are undeniable assets.
Rooney’s Ideal Outcome
While he didn’t tip his hand on which passer he prefers, Rooney made it known that signing one of Fields or Wilson to a multi-year contract is the goal. He expressed a desire to have more long-term stability than another one-year deal.
“My preference would probably be to have something more than a one year (contract) in place next time around, but we’ll see what it takes.”
– Art Rooney II
The ball may ultimately be in the quarterbacks’ court, as it “takes two to tango,” Rooney noted. Wilson has openly campaigned to stay in Pittsburgh, saying his goal is to finish his career as a Steeler. Fields’ leanings are less public at this stage.
Factors in the Decision
As the Steelers weigh their momentous quarterback choice, several key factors will come into play:
- Age and upside – Is Fields’ youth and potential worth betting on?
- Experience and leadership – Does Wilson’s veteran presence give him the edge?
- System fit – Which QB best suits Matt Canada’s offense?
- Locker room impact – How will the team dynamics handle either choice?
Rooney acknowledged that age will be a consideration, perhaps hinting at a lean towards Fields. But both quarterbacks have shown “promise in stretches” and the capability of being quality NFL starters in Rooney’s eyes.
Organizational Stability
Amidst the swirling uncertainty at quarterback, Rooney expressed unwavering support for head coach Mike Tomlin despite the playoff victory drought dating back to 2016. While acknowledging the fan frustration, he believes the players still back Tomlin and that wholesale coaching changes are not in the plans.
“It’s fair to question (Tomlin’s messaging) after losing five in a row, but when I talk to the players, I think the players still want to play for Mike.”
– Art Rooney II
The Steelers, coming off a 10-7 campaign, are an organization preaching stability and a belief in their foundational pieces. With Rooney aiming to fortify the most critical piece, the quarterback, with a long-term solution, the 2025 offseason will chart the course for the franchise’s future.
Will it be the rising star Fields or the accomplished veteran Wilson leading the black and gold into a new era? Steelers fans anxiously await the answer to the NFL offseason’s biggest quarterback question.
