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The Steelers won big against the Raiders, with a score of 32-13. But even though they did well, some people in Pittsburgh think it’s time to change their quarterback. They’re talking about who should play as the main quarterback for the team.
In the offseason, the Steelers made some big moves in the quarterback department. They signed Russell Wilson on a one-year deal worth $1.2 million after he was let go by the Broncos. Then, they traded Kenny Pickett to Philadelphia and brought in Justin Fields from Chicago.
Russell Wilson missed most of training camp due to an injury but was named the starter for Week 1 against Atlanta. However, Justin Fields took over after Wilson re-aggravated his calf injury and has stayed in that role since then.
Sports radio host Mark Madden is vocal about wanting Justin Fields benched in favor of Russell Wilson. Madden argues that Fields’ passing stats are similar to those of former Steelers QB Kenny Pickett, noting low yardage against teams like Vegas and Dallas.
“Fields is producing stat lines reminiscent of Kenny Pickett: 145 yards passing at Vegas, 131 yards passing vs. Dallas the week before. His arm is all over the place,” Madden writes in his latest column. Yet, Madden acknowledges Fields’ superior running ability, evident from his two rushing touchdowns against the Raiders and five overall this season.
Imagine wanting to bench Justin Fields.
— GEORGE (@ItsGeorgeyy) October 14, 2024
There are only 6 quarterbacks performing better than him in expected passing situations this season. Get him an actual WR1 and a competent OC and the Steelers are actually set up for success in the future pic.twitter.com/tEiS1z2o3a
Madden overlooks how injuries on Pittsburgh’s offensive line could impact both quarterbacks. The team has already lost key players like center Nate Herbig and guard James Daniels for the season, with rookie center Zach Frazier also sidelined indefinitely.
Moreover, he ignores that Pittsburgh scored over 30 points against the Raiders and holds the highest point differential in their division. With a solid performance and a record of 4-2, why change what’s working?
While Russell Wilson brings experience, there’s no rush to alter what’s currently effective for the Steelers.
