Justin Fields begins season as the Pittsburgh Steelers' backup quarterback

The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially named Russell Wilson as the week one starter, leaving former Chicago Bears star Justin Fields as the team's number two quarterback. This decision has been anticipated around the league for some time - and it is not the league-shattering news that Steelers fans are hopeful for - but head coach Mike Tomlin has indicated that Fields will still have a role in Pittsburgh's offense.

During a Wednesday appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, Tomlin was effusive in his praise of both quarterbacks. "It's been a challenging and good experience", the head coach responded on what went into the decision to name a starter. "Justin's talents are more than I anticipated, particularly his mobility, the things that he can do and create.... Russ's deep ball is even more impressive than his reputation".

When Eisen asked the long-time coach if there would be a "Justin Fields package" with Wilson as the starter, Tomlin answered, "My friend [Atlanta Falcons head coach] Raheem Morris better be ready for a Justin Fields package [in week one]... I don't want to disclose any strategic approaches, but there's probably too much talent to be sitting around watching all day".

Former Chicago Bears' quarterbacks begins seasons as a backup.

Fields' playing time during the 2024 season is a situation that Chicago Bears fans will be monitoring closely over the next several months, with the sixth-round pick received in return for the former Ohio State quarterback slated to become a fourth-rounder if he plays 51% or more of the offensive snaps this season. Notably, there seems to be no clause on where Fields lines up on the gridiron, nor is there a requirement for Fields to be the only quarterback on the field for his playing time to accrue.

This means that regardless of Fields' role in the offense, either as the eventual starter or in a more gadget-type role, his playing time could directly impact the Chicago Bears' draft compensation at the end of the season. All that is known publicly right now is that Fields will start the season as the backup quarterback, but the impression he has made on the Steelers' coaching staff is palpable, and the former 11th overall pick will have some role in his offense come September.