Steelers QB competition: Potential Justin Fields role revealed if Russell Wilson starts vs. Jets

As the Pittsburgh Steelers get ready for Sunday’s matchup against the New York Jets, all indications are Russell Wilson will make his first start. Justin Fields, as a result, would move to a reserve role – but he could still see the field, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.

Wilson was in “pole position” to be Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback before he suffered a calf injury in training camp. That opened the door for Fields to start the first six games after arriving from the Chicago Bears, and he helped lead the Steelers to a 4-2 record to begin the year.

Wilson took the first team reps in practice this week, and although Mike Tomlin didn’t tip his hand on his plans at quarterback, George Pickens slipped up and seemed to confirm he’d be starting. But Fowler said the Jets are preparing for everything, including a potential Fields package of plays in the red zone.

“I got off my flight today, I texted somebody with the Jets – ‘Hey, are you preparing for Russell Wilson to start this [week], as well?'” Fowler said on SportsCenter Friday evening. “We just saw that video from our Brooke Pryor online with George Pickens saying Wilson’s likely starting. That’s certainly the expectation for the Jets, that’s been the expectation largely, internally with the Steelers all the week, although Mike Tomlin has not revealed his full plans. Russell has prepared to start. He’s taken the first team reps. You saw Pickens there, he could be unlocked a little bit. Wilson is not afraid to throw the deep ball.

“Now, what does this mean for Justin Fields? That’s key, because will he have a package? Could Mike Tomlin play two quarterbacks? I know the Jets have prepared for all scenarios, including Fields potentially having some sort of red-zone, third-down package. Perhaps, even though the Steelers have not tipped their hand, maybe there’s a way to get both of those quarterbacks on the field.”

Fields continues to display the dual-threat ability he showcased in Chicago the last three years. He completed 66.3% of his passes for 1,103 yards and five touchdowns in the air while adding 231 yards and five touchdowns on the ground, as well, through six games.

The Steelers and Jets will square off in an interesting Sunday Night Football affair. Kickoff is set for 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC.