“One of the worst feelings”- Steelers legend Roethlisberger credits Wilson for overcoming early crowd boos, sends strong message to Steelers Unjust treatment of Justin Fields
Justin Fields’ journey with the Pittsburgh Steelers has been filled with ups and downs since his high-profile trade from the Chicago Bears in March 2024. Upon arriving in Pittsburgh, Fields immediately showcased his potential, guiding the team to an impressive 4-2 start. His dynamic play included 1,160 passing yards and 231 rushing yards, contributing to a total of 10 touchdowns. Fields’ ability to thrive both through the air and on the ground was seen as a key reason for the Steelers’ early success, as he injected fresh energy into the offense and brought new hope to the team’s playoff aspirations.
However, despite his strong individual performances, Fields found himself benched in favor of veteran quarterback Russell Wilson after Week 6. Wilson, who joined the Steelers after being released by the Denver Broncos, had been recovering from a calf injury and was deemed ready to return. The decision to replace Fields raised eyebrows, as many believed that his dual-threat ability had been a cornerstone of the team’s early momentum. In his first game back, Wilson led the Steelers to a dominant 37-15 victory over the New York Jets in Week 7, reigniting the conversation about the Steelers’ quarterback situation. Wilson’s veteran poise and his ability to manage the game efficiently brought some stability to the offense, yet it did little to silence the growing debate about Fields’ benching.
Former Steelers quarterback and franchise icon Ben Roethlisberger weighed in on the matter during an episode of his popular podcast, and his words added significant weight to the discussion. Roethlisberger, who had been the face of Pittsburgh’s offense for nearly two decades and won two Super Bowl titles with the team, was clear in his belief that Fields should not have been benched. “I didn’t think that Justin deserved to get benched,” Roethlisberger stated. He went on to praise Fields for how he handled the situation with maturity and professionalism, despite the disappointment. “Justin handled it marvelously,” Roethlisberger added, highlighting how Fields took responsibility for his play, saying, “If I would have played better, it wouldn’t have been an issue.”
Roethlisberger’s comments reflect a broader sentiment in Pittsburgh that Fields has earned the respect of not only his teammates but also former Steelers legends. His ability to lead the offense with both his arm and his legs, combined with his poise in difficult circumstances, has cemented his status as a key figure in the locker room. Even as Wilson’s return brought success in the short term, the long-term future of the Steelers’ quarterback position remains uncertain, with Fields very much a part of that conversation.
As the Steelers navigate the second half of the 2024 season, the ongoing competition between Fields and Wilson will be one of the most closely watched storylines. The team remains in playoff contention, but the choice of quarterback could have a significant impact on their prospects. Fields has shown that he can be a game-changer, while Wilson’s experience could be invaluable as the pressure mounts. Roethlisberger’s endorsement of Fields only adds another layer to the drama, as fans and analysts alike debate whether the Steelers should stick with the veteran or give the younger quarterback a chance to reclaim his starting role. Either way, this quarterback battle is far from over, and it will likely shape the trajectory of the Steelers’ season.
With Fields’ dual-threat capabilities and Wilson’s wealth of experience, head coach Mike Tomlin faces a tough decision that could define the Steelers’ playoff push. Should the team prioritize the dynamic playmaking ability of Fields, or lean on the seasoned leadership of Wilson? As the season progresses, this decision will remain a focal point for fans and commentators alike, especially as Fields continues to demonstrate his resilience and potential for growth. Whatever happens, the Pittsburgh Steelers are set for a fascinating and pivotal second half of the 2024 season.