In a twist of fate, Russell Wilson’s calf issue has inadvertently opened the door for Justin Fields to step up and showcase his skills at Steelers camp. This unexpected turn of events has allowed new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith to see firsthand what Fields is made of.
The early feedback on Fields has been nothing short of impressive, with reports aligning perfectly with his scouting report. His talent and dynamic play have caught the attention of the coaching staff, raising the possibility of him carving out a unique role in the Steelers’ offense.
“He’s a dangerous football player with the ball in his hands,” Smith commented to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “It allows you to get creative. Maybe you change up a little bit of a defensive game plan for him. Certainly he adds a different element.”
Fields’ arrival in Pittsburgh via trade with Chicago brought a sense of anticipation around how he would be utilized in the offense due to his rare running ability. The ambiguity surrounding his role has only added to the intrigue, but with Wilson sidelined, the Steelers have had the luxury of taking their time to figure out the best way to harness Fields’ skills.
With Wilson out of the picture for the time being, Smith has pushed Fields to expand his game by challenging him to push the ball down the field and operate the offense beyond just being a gadget player. This shift in focus has allowed the coaching staff to gain a deeper understanding of Fields’ capabilities, instead of being left to wonder about their backup quarterback.
As the Steelers continue to evaluate Fields during camp, the spotlight has never been brighter on the young quarterback. His opportunity to shine has come sooner than expected, and he’s making the most of it with each snap he takes on the practice field. Only time will tell how Fields’ story will unfold in Pittsburgh, but for now, he’s making sure his presence is felt every time he steps onto the gridiron.
