Russell Wilson named Steelers quarterback ahead of Justin Fields; will face Falcons in Week 1 | News, scores, highlights, stats and rumors

The Pittsburgh Steelers have their starting quarterback.

As expected, the team named veteran Russell Wilson the starter on Wednesday, ending the quarterback battle between him and Justin Fields. At least for now.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin called the decision to start Wilson instead of Fields a “difficult decision,” according to ESPN’s Brooke Pryor.

The Steelers completely revamped the quarterback position this offseason, releasing Mason Rudolph and Mitchell Trubisky as free agents and trading Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Wilson was given a one-year, $1.2 million contract in March after being released by the Denver Broncos. The Broncos still owe Wilson $37.7 million for the 2024 season, so he was more willing to give Pittsburgh a discount.

Not long after, Fields was signed by the Chicago Bears for a conditional sixth-round pick in 2025 (which could rise to a fourth-round pick if Fields plays over 51 percent of Pittsburgh’s snaps this season).

Tomlin made it known publicly that Wilson would enter training camp in “pole position” to compete for the quarterback title.

“We were very transparent about the pecking order, at least in the beginning,” he told reporters at the time. “I think that creates clarity for everyone involved. Russell is a veteran, man. He has a proven readiness process. He’s been in this league a long time. He’s able to assemble troops, receivers, tight ends, running backs, etc. He just has a lot of experience in what it takes to be the right guy over the course of a 12-month calendar, and I think that’s something a younger guy like Justin could learn from.”

However, he left open the possibility that Fields might get the job.

“Rest assured, when it’s time to compete, Justin will get the opportunity,” Tomlin said. “And we’ll give the guys a chance to find their feet.”

Wilson and Fields have been a contrast for the Steelers, at least in terms of their respective careers. Wilson is a nine-time Pro Bowler and one-time champion, but there is no doubt that he has declined in his later years. It remains questionable whether he can ever return to his high level of play given his struggles in Denver.

Fields is younger and more electric and has potential to make big plays, but he struggles with more fundamental aspects of his position like accuracy, reading the defense and getting rid of the ball quickly. He has a tendency to take sacks and it remains seriously questionable whether he can ever be more than a below-average passer.

For now, the Steelers are trying their luck with the smart veteran. But a difficult period this season could give Fields the opportunity to step in.