Justin Fields Doesn’t Need to Be Named Steelers’ QB1

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for their upcoming matchup against the Indianapolis Colts, marking the fourth consecutive game that quarterback Justin Fields will likely start. However, head coach Mike Tomlin is refraining from naming Fields as the permanent starter over veteran Russell Wilson, who remains sidelined due to a persistent calf injury.

When questioned about his reluctance to officially name Fields the starter, Tomlin stated, “Because there’s no need.” He explained that the dynamics surrounding the team’s situation remain unchanged. According to Tomlin, Fields will approach practice with the mindset consistent with a starter, so formalities regarding his status are unnecessary at this time.

“Sometimes in this business, man, there’s a myriad of complex decisions that need to be made,” Tomlin elaborated. “I’ve learned to make them when it’s appropriate. It’s not necessary to make a decision right now.” He promised transparency when it becomes vital to address Wilson’s status, who initially sustained his calf injury late in July during training camp’s conditioning tests.

Tomlin, however, was vague on what he considers an appropriate level of health for Wilson. “We’ll know when we get there,” he remarked. “He needs to be healthy enough to not only keep himself safe but also to be productive in the ways we need him to be.” Wilson has remained a limited participant in practice, and Tomlin confirmed that Wilson’s status would be reevaluated later in the week, provided his participation increases.

For this week, Tomlin emphasizes the need for Fields to concentrate on being prepared as the starter. “As we walk into the building tomorrow, I want Justin singularly focused on starting for us,” he noted. Should Wilson’s condition improve, there may be considerations later in the week; otherwise, the current arrangement will remain in place.

Initially, Wilson was named the starting quarterback following a competition in training camp, entering the season with the advantage after signing a one-year contract with the Steelers. Unfortunately, he sustained a re-aggravation of his calf injury just before the season opener in Atlanta. Since then, Fields has taken over, leading the team to an impressive three-win start, highlighted by his standout performance against the Los Angeles Chargers. In that game, Fields completed 25 of 32 passes for 245 yards, securing two touchdowns—one rushing and one passing—with just one interception.

Tomlin acknowledged Fields’ strong performance during these three games, stating, “Justin has played well, and that’s exciting for him and for us.” However, he insisted that Fields’ success has not influenced the larger decision about who will take the reins as a long-term starter. “It’s not time yet,” he added regarding decision-making concerning the quarterback position.

As Wilson continues to recover from injury, concerns about his ability to adapt to a new system have been mitigated by his extensive experience in the league. Yet, when asked if there could be a point at which Wilson may find it difficult to assimilate back into the offense due to the speed of the game, Tomlin maintained his uncertain stance. “I don’t know, man,” he replied. “We’ll know when we get there.”