The Steelers QB room will be one to watch come next season.
Mike Tomlin, speaking from the NFL owners meetings in Orlando over the weekend, asserted that Russell Wilson is positioned to lead the Pittsburgh Steelers as their starting quarterback this season.
Tomlin emphasized that the team views Wilson as the primary starter, with Justin Fields slated as his backup heading into training camp.
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“We’ve been very transparent about the pecking order, at least to start,” Tomlin said Sunday from the NFL’s league meetings, addressing the team’s free agency additions for the first time. “I just think that provides clarity for all parties involved. Russell is a veteran, man. He’s got a proven process of readiness. He’s been in this league a long time. He’s capable of rallying troops, receivers, tight ends, running backs, et cetera. He’s just got a lot of experience in terms of what it takes to be the guy over the course of a 12-month calendar and I just think that that’s something that a younger guy like Justin could learn from.” via ESPN.
Tomlin clarified that the initial pecking order is established, “at least initially,” though he hinted at flexibility. Despite indicating a set hierarchy, Tomlin’s subsequent remarks suggest a degree of fluidity. He emphasized Fields’ opportunity to learn from Wilson, expressing enthusiasm for the prospect. Tomlin underscored that once Fields absorbs insights from Wilson, the situation could evolve.
“Rest assured when it’s time to compete, Justin will be given an opportunity to compete, and we’ll allow those guys to sort themselves out,” said Tomlin.
In essence, while the current depth chart designates Fields as the backup, Wilson’s hold on the starting role isn’t cast in stone. Wilson receives an initial vote of confidence, while Fields is presented with both a challenge and grounds for optimism. Tomlin appears poised to observe as the two quarterbacks vie for the coveted starting position.
