Justin Fields’ Ability as a Runner Could Be an X-Factor for Steelers

Pittsburgh Steelers QB Justin Fields
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields runs during training camp on July 30, 2024. -- Ed Thompson / Steelers Now

UNITY TWP., Pa. — Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields has turned heads at training camp so far with his run game abilities. That tracks well with what he showcased in Chicago, as he has the most rushing yards by a quarterback since 2022 with 1,800 yards, 6.3 yards per carry. Both figures are higher than Lamar Jackson’s.

“Big time,” Steelers inside linebacker Elandon Roberts said of Fields’ talent as a runner. “Outside the pocket, this guy’s a problem. Inside the pocket, he’s a problem. … He’s the type of guy that’s always going to keep you on your toes.”

With Russell Wilson sidelined due to a calf strain over the first week of training camp, Fields has received first-team reps. Roberts thinks the extra reps against Fields will be beneficial to the defense when they play against dynamic quarterbacks this season.

“It helps us a lot,” Roberts said. “You’ve got Lamar (Jackson), Deshaun (Watson) can still run. … We playing Jalen Hurts this year. We got Dak Prescott. … It gets us prepared for that element.”

Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin added, “When he breaks the pocket, he is dangerous, and he can turn a bad play into a really good play really fast. It’s really good work for us because we’re gonna run across quarterbacks like that.”

Former Baltimore Ravens linebacker and current ESPN analyst Bart Scott believes there’s a path to success for Justin Fields in Pittsburgh. He thinks the Steelers can have an offense similar to the Ravens with Lamar Jackson.

“If they’re able to develop Justin Fields and that run game, they can maybe save some jobs. … The Kenny Pickett draft pick was a disaster, this is how you fix it,” Scott said on Get Up.

Adam Schefter of ESPN thinks Wilson’s lead for the starting job as narrowed within the last week.

“I think Russell Wilson remains in the pole position, but I also think that Justin Fields has opened some eyes, and they see the type of offense they could have.”

One thing is clear, whether Fields is the starter or not, the Steelers should have a special package for Fields. He’s just too talented to not be utilized.

Alan Saunders contributed reporting from Unity Twp.

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