Justin Fields is on track to become a free agent in 2025 after the Pittsburgh Steelers decided not to exercise his fifth-year option, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
This decision comes despite the relatively modest financial commitment of $25.664 million required for the option, as per Over The Cap’s figures for the former No. 11 overall pick.
The Steelers acquired Fields in a trade that sent a conditional 2025 sixth-round pick to Chicago, which could escalate to a fourth-rounder if Fields plays more than 51% of the offensive snaps this season.
Given the minimal investment, Pittsburgh has kept its options open, even if Fields ends up being a short-term solution.
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As the 2024 season approaches, Fields is slated as the backup to Russell Wilson, but there is potential for him to ascend to the starting role.
His time with the Chicago Bears showcased his dual-threat capabilities, as he completed 60.3% of his passes for 6,674 yards, 40 touchdowns, and 30 interceptions over 38 starts in three seasons. Additionally, he rushed for 2,220 yards and 14 touchdowns, marking him as one of the top running quarterbacks in the league in 2022.
In Pittsburgh, Fields is presented with a fresh start and the opportunity to prove himself alongside veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowler. Although Wilson currently leads the depth chart, the dynamic could shift as the season progresses.
If Fields can outperform expectations and potentially secure a starting position, he might position himself for a significant contract in the next free agency, setting the stage for a pivotal year in his NFL career.
