The Pittsburgh Steelers changed quarterbacks after beginning the season 4-2 and went on to enjoy their largest victory of the season against the New York Jets.
Justin Fields began the season as the Steelers quarterback with Russell Wilson injured. After leading the team to a positive 4-2 record, Pittsburgh made a quarterback change with Wilson healthy. Wilson impressed in his Steelers debut, passing for 264 yards and two touchdowns while adding another touchdown on the ground in a 37-15 victory over the Jets.
Steelers insider Bob Labriola believes that the team will begin to use Justin Fields packages following their Week 9 bye week when asked if Fields’ mobility could be a weapon in the red zone.
“Packages within games for Justin Fields are in the future, I believe, but Russell Wilson is one of the most highly-rated red zone quarterbacks in the NFL,” Labriola wrote.
“In 2023 with the Broncos, Wilson ranked fifth in the NFL in red zone touchdown passes, and he threw only 1 red zone interception in his 60 attempts. Again, I believe the Steelers plan to utilize Fields in some way during the 10 games following their bye, but the notion that they need an alternative to Wilson at quarterback in the red zone is misguided.”
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Pittsburgh has two quarterbacks who can contribute to the team. Before being benched for Wilson, Fields threw for five touchdowns and added another five touchdowns on the ground. His dynamic playmaking abilities and mobility could give the Steelers more offensive options.
Wilson’s passing abilities led to the Steelers blowout win against the Jets, but the team should give Fields opportunities to make an impact as they strive to make a deep playoff run.
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