Justin Fields is confident in his performance as he vies for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ starting quarterback role. Speaking to ESPN’s Brooke Pryor, Fields remarked, “I’ve shown what I can do,” reflecting on his time with the first team during training camp. He noted the growth and progress made with the team but acknowledged that the final decision is beyond his control.
In the offseason, the Steelers traded Kenny Pickett and acquired Fields from the Chicago Bears, along with signing Russell Wilson. Despite Head Coach Mike Tomlin initially naming Wilson as the starter, Wilson suffered a calf injury during training camp, leading to Fields taking over first-team reps.
Fields, known for his rushing abilities and some passing limitations, impressed during camp with notable deep throws. He started the Steelers’ preseason opener but struggled with fumble issues. In the subsequent preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, Wilson, who had returned to health, started but did not make a significant offensive impact.
Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowler, is set to start in the Steelers’ preseason finale against the Atlanta Falcons on Saturday. The Steelers’ first-team offense has struggled with injuries and has yet to score in two preseason games.
Fields emphasized focusing on controllable aspects of his performance, stating, “I try to not think about stuff that I can’t control. I try to just think about the stuff that I can control, so I can’t control whether or not I’m going to be named the starter. I can control how I come in every day, how I work every day, and how I treat my teammates.”
Wilson had a successful tenure with the Seattle Seahawks but faced challenges during his recent two-year stint with the Denver Broncos, which ended with a 11-19 record.
The Steelers will open their 2024 regular season on September 8 against the Atlanta Falcons.
