Steelers Insider Turns Heads With QB Justin Fields Argument

The debate over whether the Pittsburgh Steelers should pursue a trade for Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields has sparked differing opinions among national analysts and local insiders. While many national analysts advocate for the Steelers to pursue Fields, local insiders like Gerry Dulac from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette have taken a more neutral stance.

Dulac outlined three reasons why he believes a trade for Fields wouldn’t be sensible for the Steelers: their confidence in Kenny Pickett, the desire to retain Mason Rudolph, and concerns over Fields’ win-loss record. However, this perspective garnered mixed reactions on social media.

Some users criticized the reasons provided, arguing that Pickett and Rudolph aren’t sufficient solutions for the Steelers’ quarterback position and that Fields represents a higher ceiling option. They emphasized Fields’ talent and potential impact on the team’s future success.

Overall, the discussion highlights the ongoing debate within the Steelers’ fanbase and the broader football community regarding the team’s quarterback strategy and whether Fields would be a viable solution for their needs.

Another Reason a Justin Fields Trade Doesn’t Make Sense for Steelers

While many Steelers fans may disagree with Gerry Dulac’s reasons for the team not to trade for Justin Fields, the organization’s public statements regarding their quarterbacks this offseason suggest a different approach. Team president Art Rooney II expressed confidence in Kenny Pickett’s future and indicated a desire to re-sign Mason Rudolph during a press briefing on January 29.

Rooney emphasized that the Steelers still believe in Pickett’s potential but acknowledged that he needs to continue working hard to progress. Additionally, he praised Rudolph for showcasing the team’s capabilities with quality quarterback play and expressed interest in retaining him.

Although Rooney initially stated on February 6 that the organization was not ruling out any possibilities regarding quarterback acquisitions, he later clarified that a blockbuster trade for a high-profile signal caller like Fields was unlikely.

Financial considerations also play a significant role in the Steelers’ reluctance to pursue Fields. While Fields would carry a relatively modest $6 million cap hit in 2024, his fifth-year option must be decided by May. Acquiring Fields via trade, which may involve surrendering a second-round pick and additional draft capital, would necessitate picking up his fifth-year option, committing the team to pay him over $25 million for the 2024 and 2025 seasons before he even takes the field in a Steelers uniform.

Fields Provides High Upside Behind Center

While there are numerous arguments against trading for Justin Fields, one factor could outweigh them all: Fields’ potential upside as a franchise quarterback. In today’s NFL, securing a franchise quarterback is paramount for success, and teams often go to great lengths to acquire one.

If the Steelers view Fields as a quarterback with the potential to lead their franchise in the future and believe he offers more upside than Kenny Pickett, then the cost of acquiring him may be justified. Having a cornerstone quarterback can elevate a team’s competitiveness and provide stability at the most critical position on the field.

However, the key question for the Steelers is whether they perceive Fields as a potential franchise quarterback or if they harbor doubts about Pickett’s ability to fulfill that role. While Fields possesses remarkable athleticism and has shown flashes of talent, his win-loss record as a starter raises concerns.

On the other hand, Pickett may not have the same athletic prowess as Fields, but his record as a starter is more favorable. Despite less impressive statistics, Pickett has managed to secure wins and demonstrate leadership on the field.

Ultimately, the decision to trade for Fields or stick with Pickett hinges on the Steelers’ assessment of each quarterback’s long-term potential and their willingness to invest in Fields despite the associated risks.

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