NFL Insider: QB Justin Fields Could Pick ‘Sleeper Team’ Over Steelers

Justin Fields and Russell Wilson are the presumed leading candidates for the Pittsburgh Steelers starting quarterback role.

Both Fields and Wilson entered the offseason as free agents, meaning Steelers owner Art Rooney II, head coach Mike Tomlin and the front office need to consider their next move carefully. They might also want to move with a sense of urgency as Pittsburgh isn’t the only team this offseason in search of a starting quarterback, which could mean unless the Steelers act fast, the market could force the franchise and limit its options.

Fields, for example, is said to be garnering interest from a “sleeper team.”

“He wants a clean runway to start a full season,” ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported Monday. “He didn’t get that last year. He would like to be the guy, wherever he goes. The New York Jets are a sleeper option here. They could have some interest. They like the idea of a dual-threat quarterback. He’s younger. I’m told Fields has looked at that roster, sees some intrigue there too. They have some good, young pieces like Garrett Wilson. They have a good defense so we’ll see what happens.”

The Jets met with quarterback Aaron Rodgers to inform the 41-year-old of their intentions to not pursue a contract extension, making New York’s starting signal-caller position vacant for the time being. Rodgers, ironically enough, is one of several names linked to the Steelers this offseason, joining Jameis Winston, Daniel Jones and Matthew Stafford.

All of the much-expected speculation, however, doesn’t rule out Pittsburgh’s chances of retaining Fields moving forward.

“I’m told Fields is open to a return to the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Fowler said. “He had a good experience there.”

It’s unlikely that Pittsburgh will bring back Fields and Wilson, as Rooney has already hinted this offseason so if the 25-year-old is striving for a breakout, the Steelers might offer the best opportunity. Fields got familiar and comfortable playing under Tomlin, plus his mobility fits in line with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s schemes.

Fields made six starts in 10 games with the Steelers last season, racking up 1,106 yards with five touchdowns and one interception.

New York, meanwhile, fired its head coach — Robert Saleh — and reaped zero benefits from entrusting Rodgers the rest of the way through. The Jets went 3-9 after parting ways with Saleh and finished the season at 5-12, so a change of direction is of the utmost importance before tackling their 2025 season.

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