However, the Steelers may be intending to extend Fields after the season, which might occur when Fields earns the starting job. According to Nick Farbaugh of Steelers Now, Tomlin stated at the annual league meeting on Sunday that Fields is the backup quarterback so he can learn from Wilson.
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin alluded at the team’s plans for quarterback Justin Fields, which sound very different from the public narrative that the team intends to start Russell Wilson in Week 1.
After a busy week of free agency, the Steelers dealt Fields to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a conditional sixth-round pick. Following reports of Fields’ trade to Pittsburgh, Tomlin informed Russell Wilson that the veteran quarterback would be the starter. If Wilson performs well in Pittsburgh during the 2024 season, the Steelers want to extend his contract the following year.
“Russell is a veteran, dude. He has a proven preparedness process in place. He’s been in the league a long time, and he’s capable of rallying troops, receivers, tight ends, and running backs; he simply has a lot of knowledge with what it takes over a 12-month period.
I just believe that’s something a younger man like Justin can learn from, and it provides clarity for all parties involved as they conduct some of the casual things around this time of year.”
