NFL insider Albert Breer wrote this week in his Monday Morning Quarterback column that he “really likes” the idea of the Pittsburgh Steelers adding a former first round pick to the roster this offseason.
“I really like the idea of Fields in Pittsburgh under Arthur Smith,” wrote Breer. “That said, it’s at least worth noting that Smith, in his first draft in Atlanta, did pass on the ex-Ohio State star.”
Breer expects the Chicago Bears to take USC quarterback Caleb Williams with the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. If the Bears draft Williams, they’d obviously look to trade Fields.
A recent report from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, however, suggests that Pittsburgh won’t be in the market this offseason for a quarterback who wants a chance to start.
From the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: In any event, the Steelers are not interested in bringing in a quarterback who wants to be a starter. That would include Justin Fields and Kirk Cousins, and probably even Russell Wilson, who has a connection with the Steelers. They are committed to giving Pickett a third season to see if he is the guy to do more than just win a playoff game — something they haven’t done in a franchise-record seven years.
If the price for acquiring Fields in a trade isn’t too expensive (and that will almost certainly depend on market demand), then it’s definitely a scenario the Steelers should consider.
Fields would give the Steelers another starting option at quarterback that could thrive under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
If Kenny Pickett gets hurt or proves to be ineffective, Pittsburgh could quickly turn to Fields, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract.
Fields’ cap hit in 2024 is just $6 million. The Steelers could decline Fields’ fifth year option for 2025 and essentially spend $6 million as an insurance policy/lottery ticket. At worst, Fields serves as a backup and the Steelers let him hit free agency after the 2024 season. At best, Fields takes over for Pickett and proves to be a franchise option and the Steelers sign him to a new deal before declining Pickett’s fifth year option next offseason.
I wouldn’t trade a first or second round pick for Fields. But if that price comes down, it could be a smart gamble for the Steelers.
