The Pittsburgh Steelers are getting ready to take on the New York Jets on the road to open up the 2025 NFL season. This will be an interesting contest as the two starting quarterbacks have switched spots since the 2024 season ended. The defenses are going to have some familiarity in this contest, and fans will get to see how things play out as both sides have some stars on their respective rosters. One of the more interesting matchups is going to be Jets quarterback Justin Fields going against Pittsburgh's defense, and looking at the matchup on paper, that clash should fall in Pittsburgh's favor.
New York Jets
Justin Fields after signing a new contract with the New York Jets during the 2025 offseason after spending one year in Pittsburgh.
Fields started six games for the Steelers to begin the 2024 season, and he went 4-2 during those contests. Some of those wins came because of the way the defense performed for Pittsburgh, but Fields also played well and showed some improvements from his time with the Chicago Bears. Pittsburgh eventually opted to start Russell Wilson once he returned to full health, which sent Fields to the bench for the remainder of the year. Head Coach Mike Tomlin was asked about Fields' abilities while addressing the media on Tuesday.
"He's unique, because he is stronger than most mobile quarterbacks," Tomlin said. "That's a component of his game that I think is unique; he is a really talented guy physically. He's not easy to bring down. He's got a real solid base about him. He's big. So, when I think about what might be different, I think about his unique physical skill set."
Tomlin seemed to solely focus on Fields' physical abilities and the way he can affect the game as a runner. He completely avoided discussing what Fields can do as a passer, which has been questioned since Fields entered the league back in 2021. It was speculated that Fields was sent to the bench after Wilson returned to full health in 2024 because Tomlin felt Wilson would open up the passing game, and that is exactly what happened.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Former Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (#2) runs with the football during a regular season football matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA.
It was clear during the 2024 season that Tomlin did not have much faith in Fields' abilities as a passer, and the way he didn't seem to mention that during his press conference might just confirm that. The quarterback is absolutely a threat on the ground, but if there is no threat through the air, the defense will be able to pin its ears back and focus on stopping the run. This is an advantage of playing a quarterback who might struggle through the air, especially against the star-studded defense that Pittsburgh rosters.
There is also no guarantee that Fields is going to have much time to throw on Sunday. The Jets' offensive line has been questionable at best over the last couple of seasons, and Pittsburgh has a great pass rush and a secondary that should be able to lock up a good group of wide receivers. This will make Fields have trouble processing what he is seeing, and it could force him into making some mistakes.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Former Steelers QB Justin Fields warms up pregame before a Week 15 matchup against the Eagles during the 2024 season.
Steelers Should Have An Easy Path To Victory Against The Jets In Week 1
The Steelers should be able to start the 2025 regular season off with a win against the Jets. Their defense has to be able to take advantage of playing against Fields, and the group should be able to do so. If the Steelers can hold onto the ball on offense and produce some points, Pittsburgh should come out on top. The expectation should be to force multiple turnovers on defense, which will only lead to more opportunity for Pittsburgh to pull away from New York. If Pittsburgh can't find a way to win against the Jets, it would be concerning.
What do you think of Tomlin's comments on Fields? Let us know in the comments below!
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