The Pittsburgh Steelers completely overhauled their quarterback room after last season, a move that sparked mixed reactions from fans. While some were eager for a fresh start, others held out hope that one of the former quarterbacks could have developed into a long-term option. Much of the fan support centered around Justin Fields, who signed with the New York Jets this offseason. Fields has often emerged as a fan favorite wherever he’s gone, but his situation in New York remains uncertain.

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Former Steelers QB Justin Fields (right) practicing with his new team, the New York Jets.
In fact, things may not be going in the right direction for the quarterback. During a recent appearance on the Gang's All Here podcast, New York Post Jets beat writer Brian Costello revealed that the offense is facing significant challenges during training camp, and that Fields remains a major question mark heading into the season.
"Particularly the quarterback position, you know I think when you look at this Jets roster, they have a lot of good things, but I think Justin Fields is a huge, huge question mark," Costello said. "He really has not looked good the last two practices and it’s been really bad offensive days these last two days."
Before joining the Steelers, Fields was drafted by the Chicago Bears, where he quickly became beloved by the fan base. Many Bears fans were disappointed to see him leave, but hopeful that a fresh start elsewhere could help him thrive. However, after arriving in Pittsburgh, Fields found himself competing with veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, who was ultimately named the starter ahead of the 2024 season.
However, when Wilson suffered an injury before the season began, Fields had the opportunity to lead the Steelers at the start of the season. He went on to start six games, leading the Steelers to a promising 4-2 record and creating excitement for fans about his potential. Despite the strong start, Fields was immediately benched once Wilson returned from injury, causing a mix of opinions.

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Former Steelers QBs Russell Wilson (left) and Justin Fields (right) look on during practice in 2024.
Both Wilson and Fields were on one-year contracts, making them free agents once the offseason rolled around. With no commitments to any quarterback, questions quickly emerged about the future of the position in Pittsburgh. Wilson, at 36 years old, is likely nearing the end of his career, while Fields, just 26, still offers youth, and the possibility of becoming a long-term solution, something the Steelers have been searching for since the departure of franchise legend Ben Roethlisberger.
Reports suggested that the Steelers were interested in keeping Fields, but it was Fields who ultimately chose to move on, likely due to how he was treated during his time in Pittsburgh. Fields made the most of his limited time, but the decision to bench him raised questions and may have contributed to his desire for a fresh start elsewhere.
Steelers Face Fields And The Jets Week 1
Week 1 is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the season. For both teams, it has the potential to be a revenge game, while also serving as an opportunity to make a strong first impression to the rest of the league with both of their new and improved rosters. For Fields in particular, it’s a chance to prove something personal. Facing off against his former team, he’ll be looking to show the Steelers that they should have done more to keep him around. On the other side, the Steelers have brought in veteran quarterback and future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers.

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Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin shakes hands with former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers after a game as quarterbacks Russell Wilson (3) and Justin Fields (2) look on in the background.
What makes this matchup even more interesting is that Rodgers' most recent team is the Jets. Things did not really end on a good note there. This sets the stage for an intense, emotionally charged matchup, with fans on both sides eager to see who comes out on top. Of course, Steeler Nation will be hoping it's Pittsburgh that comes away with the win.
Do you still wish that Fields re-signed with the Steelers? Comment below!
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