The Pittsburgh Steelers had an unusually eventful offseason, marked by significant changes at the quarterback position. The team made the bold decision to part ways with former first-round pick Kenny Pickett. Before trading Pickett, the Steelers secured the services of quarterback Russell Wilson, signing him to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum. Following Pickett's departure, Pittsburgh made another splash by trading for Chicago Bears quarterback, Justin Fields.
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Steelers' Justin Fields watches Russell Wilson throw the ball.
The Steelers’ quarterback play during the 2023 season was subpar, leaving fans eager for improvement in 2024. The additions of Wilson and Fields have sparked optimism in Pittsburgh, but the competition for the starting job has been less fierce than expected. Despite some speculation, many pundits believe the battle isn’t as close as it might seem. Head coach Mike Tomlin has been clear in his stance, consistently placing Wilson in the lead for the starting role, with Fields positioned as a challenger.
As the preseason winds down, Tomlin is nearing a decision on who will lead the offense in Week 1, with Wilson emerging as the strong favorite. However, not everyone is pleased with how the situation has been handled. Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Brady Quinn recently expressed his dissatisfaction with Tomlin's approach during an appearance on The Herd with Colin Cowherd, specifically criticizing the way the Steelers have managed the quarterback competition.
"They knew who the starter is," Quinn said. "I don't know why they're doing it this way. It bothers me. This is how you create problems within your own locker room."
Tomlin has remained unwavering in his approach throughout the offseason. While he has yet to officially announce the starting quarterback, all signs point to Wilson getting the nod. The national media has fueled the debate, with some analysts believing that Fields has a legitimate chance to win the job. However, those closest to the team—local reporters who have been following the Steelers closely—are almost universally convinced that Wilson is the clear favorite.
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Former Browns QB Brady Quinn throws the football.
Quinn is among those critical of Tomlin’s handling of the situation. Quinn believes that by not naming Wilson the starter sooner, Tomlin may be causing unnecessary uncertainty, which could ultimately be detrimental to the team.
"When you're a coach, and you are not more defiant or more outspoken about who your leader is, then when you do face adversity early in the season, it leads to that same question being amongst the dudes in the locker room."
Tomlin is known for his stubbornness, but Steelers fans should place their trust in him. Over his remarkable 17-year tenure as head coach, Tomlin has never experienced a losing season—a rare feat in the ultra-competitive NFL.
However, some questions have arisen about his leadership, especially in light of the team’s recent postseason struggles. The Steelers extended Tomlin’s contract for three more years this offseason, but the decision hasn’t been universally welcomed. Many fans are frustrated by the team’s lack of playoff success, as Pittsburgh hasn’t won a postseason game since the 2016 season.
Steelers' Mike Tomlin Facing Massive Pressure In 2024 From Fans
Tomlin faces significant pressure to win back the fan base in 2024 and lead the Steelers on a deep playoff run. He remains one of the league’s top coaches and is at the helm of a highly talented roster. With improved quarterback play—whether from Wilson or Fields—Pittsburgh is expected to return to the postseason and contend for a Super Bowl.
AP Photo / Don Wright
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin talks to Russell Wilson after a game.
Despite the mounting pressure, Tomlin appears confident in his decisions, and many believe he already knows who his starting quarterback will be. However, critics like Quinn are less impressed, voicing concerns over how Tomlin has handled the situation. As the 2024 season draws near, the Steelers’ quarterback position will continue to be a major topic of discussion.
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