Mike Tomlin on Justin Fields: 'There's probably too much talent to be sitting around watching all day'

After two full seasons as the starting quarterback in Chicago, Justin Fields now finds himself in a backup role. The Pittsburgh steelers named Russell Wilson their starting quarterback this year, which leaves Fields as QB2.

He might not be shut out of the offense entirely, though. Mike Tomlin dropped a big hint about a potential package for the former Ohio State star during an interview with Rich Eisen.

CLICK HERE to go to PrizePicks and use code ON3 to receive a guaranteed $50 once you play $5 in lineups!

The Steelers will start the season against the Atlanta Falcons on Sept. 8, and Wilson will get the first snaps as the starting quarterback. But Tomlin had a warning for Atlanta coach and close friend Raheem Morris about whether he’d see Fields when asked about a package of plays.

“My friend Raheem Morris better be ready for a Justin Fields package,” Tomlin said with a smile. “I’ll just say that.”

Watch NFL Games Live – Try for Free Fubo! Click HERE NOW

Fields made some big plays during his time with the Bears, notably with his legs. There were also flashes with his arm before Chicago traded him to Pittsburgh for a conditional sixth-round pick. If Fields plays 51% of the snaps this season, it turns into a fourth-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.

But Tomlin saw the talent Fields brings to the field, and that’s why he stopped short of saying he’d spend the whole game on the sideline. He didn’t get into details, though, with the season opener quickly approaching.

“I don’t want to disclose any strategic approaches,” Tomlin said. “But there’s probably too much talent to be sitting around watching all day. You know what I mean?”

Fields got some extra reps with the starters during training camp after Wilson suffered a calf injury. But the sense was Wilson would still end up winning the job, and Tomlin confirmed that decision Wednesday. He said it wasn’t an easy one, but the starting quarterback is now in place for the Sept. 8 opener against Atlanta.

“I met with both quarterbacks here just a few minutes ago after practice and I informed them that Russ is QB1 going into Week 1,” Tomlin said, via Jenna Harner of WPXI. “It was a difficult decision but not difficult in a negative way to be quite honest with you.

“It was difficult in a positive way. The decision was difficult because of what they’re capable of doing. The decision was difficult because of how they have conducted themselves as opposed to the things that they fall short in, in terms of capabilities or negative conduct.”