Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan completely altered the quarterback room this offseason. The trio of Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky and Mason Rudolph threw a combined 25 touchdown passes over the last two seasons, so it was much-needed.
Khan stated at the NFL Combine that he had “full faith” in Kenny Pickett being the team’s starting quarterback. However, a combination of unforeseen happenings unfolded in the next few weeks that resulted in the Steelers landing Russell Wilson on a one-year veteran minimum deal and acquiring Justin Fields from the Chicago Bears via a trade
“If you would have told me that we’d be sitting here with Russell Wilson, Justin Fields and Kyle Allen five months ago, I wouldn’t have believed you,” Khan said during an appearance on 93.7 The Fan last week.
Wilson is in pole position to be the Steelers’ starter. However, Fields will be given a fair shot in training camp and the preseason. Khan’s first impressions of Fields have been glowing, both on and off the field.
“We really liked Justin coming out of college. He had an up-and-down situation in Chicago, and the opportunity was there to get him, and I’m excited,” Khan said. “He’s really looked awesome. He’s a great individual, too. I didn’t know him personally until he got here. What a special person he is.”
Even if Wilson ends up being the starter, a special package for Fields could be implemented. Fields is a dynamic runner and could be utilized in the red zone. Since 2022, Fields has the most rushing yards by a quarterback with 1,800 yards, 6.3 yards per carry. Both figures are higher than Lamar Jackson’s.
In an interview with Missi Matthews of Steelers.com, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith addressed the idea that Fields could have a package specific to him.
“It’s too early… Both of those guys, they’re playing quarterback, and they’re out here competing,” Smith said during OTAs. “We know where we’re at in the part of the year, we’re playing football in shorts. We’re trying to improve and get to know everybody and get themselves, getting the chemistry with everyone else on the offense. It will be a fun time in Latrobe, watching those guys compete.”
One thing is for sure, though. At least on paper, the Steelers are in a much better spot at quarterback this season compared to last year.