During Thursday’s press conference, Pittsburgh Steelers Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith addressed the growing conversation around the team’s quarterback situation. Instead of directly responding to a question on Sunday regarding Russell Wilson's probable starting position, Smith complimented Justin Fields' play thus far this season.
The Herald Star
Steelers' offensive leaders Justin Fields and Arthur Smith during warmups.
Smith, however, gave some insight into the team's upcoming decision-making process regarding who will lead the offense on Sunday against the New York Jets.
"Mike talked earlier in the week... he’s got a decision to make by the end of the week," Smith said, referencing Head Coach Mike Tomlin. He also acknowledged Wilson's recent absences: "Russ has missed a lot of time, so you know we never really got to see him."
Despite Wilson's return, Smith avoided directly answering what Wilson could bring to the offense or whether he would get the start. Instead, he talked about how Fields has been instrumental in the season thus far. His response tended to be one of faith in him.
"I think Justin's done a good job," answered Smith. "By no means is anybody perfect."
Even though Fields' play still has room for improvement, these remarks imply that the Steelers' coaching staff has acknowledged Fields' ability to manage games and put the team in a position to win.
Currently, the Steelers' 4-2 record is a benchmark for Smith and the group.
"We should be 6-0," he said. "You are what your record says you are... 4-2."
While Smith acknowledged the team's ups and downs, he still emphasized the progress made over the past several weeks, suggesting that improvements have come, despite some missed opportunities.
The press conference highlighted that the focus for Smith—and likely for Tomlin—remains on fielding the player who gives them the best chance of winning. While Smith praised Fields, he steered clear of any definitive statements about Sunday’s starter. What was clear, however, was the weight of the decision ahead for Tomlin.
Though Wilson’s name has generated buzz with his debut on the team ever since coming over from the Denver Broncos, Smith’s comments on Thursday reflected caution about rushing back to any conclusions. The Steelers have battled injuries and adjustments throughout the season, and as Smith pointed out, Wilson has had limited opportunities to prove himself in practice after missing time.
Ron Chenoy / USA Today Sports, via Reuters
Russell Wilson raises his arms in the air during a game as a Denver Bronco.
Steelers Focused On The Ultimate Goal
The compliments for Fields imply that Smith views him as more than just a stand-in for the injured Wilson. Even though his performances haven't always been perfect, Fields has demonstrated the tenacity and resolve coaches admire in his appearances this season.
Smith took time to point out that success in the NFL isn’t always about flash or individual stats.
"It’s about winning," explained Smith.
He reiterated a sentiment that could reflect why Fields has been kept in the starting role. While there is always room for growth, the ability to lead a team to victory resonates most with Smith and the coaching staff.
Regarding Wilson, Smith was circumspect in his remarks, acknowledging the difficulty of assessing a player who has been away from the field for an extended period of time. As for Wilson, Smith was measured in his comments, recognizing the challenge of evaluating a player who has spent significant time off the field. “We never really got to see him,” Smith said, adding to the ambiguity surrounding Wilson’s role for this weekend’s matchup.
Smith’s avoidance of a direct endorsement for Wilson at the press conference, coupled with his praise of Fields, suggests the Steelers might not rush to make any dramatic changes under center. Smith made it very evident that Tomlin has the final say for the time being.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Mike Tomlin and Arthur Smith chat at practice ahead of the 2024 season opener.
Smith also hinted at the Steelers' overall strategy during his press conference as the season went on. The aim is to continually win and build on the team's progress, no matter who gets the start at quarterback on Sunday. Whether Fields continues to drive the offense or Wilson makes his return, the focus will be on who gives the Steelers the best chance to keep adding to their win total,
The Steelers’ quarterback decision will be made by the end of the week, but Arthur Smith’s comments on Thursday suggest the team’s direction remains centered on what’s most important—winning football games.
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