QB Justin Fields, NYJ (7 Viewers)

[Hot Sauce Guy]

My two cents is that the root of it all is that he's just not passionate about football

That sounds like a somewhat unique opinion. I have seen zero evidence pointing to this. May I ask what you’re basing this on?

 

[Big Nate]

Fields or Penix? That one should give you a headache.

I'll take both. If I had to chose probably depends on my roster/build. Fields could be a winner down the stretch this year for a contending playoff team.

Penix could be the long play where in a year or 2 takes over from Cousins. Cousins could also have a compensatory injury this year and Penix get some spot starts. Honestly I think Penix sitting a year or 2 is good for him.

This year I would take Fields, long term Penix but I would take both if I could.

 

[JohnnyU]

Fields or Penix? That one should give you a headache.

I'll take both. If I had to chose probably depends on my roster/build. Fields could be a winner down the stretch this year for a contending playoff team.

Penix could be the long play where in a year or 2 takes over from Cousins. Cousins could also have a compensatory injury this year and Penix get some spot starts. Honestly I think Penix sitting a year or 2 is good for him.

This year I would take Fields, long term Penix but I would take both if I could.

I don’t think I’ve ever heard of an injury ever described as a compensatory injury. Perhaps Penix could be the beneficiary of a Cousins injury.

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

Fields or Penix? That one should give you a headache.

I'll take both. If I had to chose probably depends on my roster/build. Fields could be a winner down the stretch this year for a contending playoff team.

Penix could be the long play where in a year or 2 takes over from Cousins. Cousins could also have a compensatory injury this year and Penix get some spot starts. Honestly I think Penix sitting a year or 2 is good for him.

This year I would take Fields, long term Penix but I would take both if I could.

I don’t think I’ve ever heard of an injury ever described as a compensatory injury. Perhaps Penix could be the beneficiary of a Cousins injury.

The athlete overcompensates in one muscle group trying to protect a recently rehabbed different muscle group...that's what Nate is describing. I suspect opposite side hamstring injuries are common in athletes who tear their achilles.

 

[JohnnyU]

Fields or Penix? That one should give you a headache.

I'll take both. If I had to chose probably depends on my roster/build. Fields could be a winner down the stretch this year for a contending playoff team.

Penix could be the long play where in a year or 2 takes over from Cousins. Cousins could also have a compensatory injury this year and Penix get some spot starts. Honestly I think Penix sitting a year or 2 is good for him.

This year I would take Fields, long term Penix but I would take both if I could.

I don’t think I’ve ever heard of an injury ever described as a compensatory injury. Perhaps Penix could be the beneficiary of a Cousins injury.

The athlete overcompensates in one muscle group trying to protect a recently rehabbed different muscle group...that's what Nate is describing. I suspect opposite side hamstring injuries are common in athletes who tear their achilles.

Ok, thanks. Just sounded odd the way it was used, or interpreted by me. I like overcompensating better I suppose.

 

[dipandglide]

I'm not saying the Bears made a sound or wrong decision in letting Justin go. I think Justin has played better each season. Still, I get the decision to go with Caleb Williams if you think he is better and will be much better than Justin in two years and getting to reset the QB contract by drafting Williams; that said, I do believe Justin can be a franchise QB for someone. He has cleaned up a lot and has more to do, but the progress seems to be happening each season. I'm not talking about win/loss or analytics, but what I have seen. Justin wants to be great, and hopefully, he is in a good place in Pittsburgh and gets a shot to show what he can do. In fantasy, he is a no-brainer when he is on the field. Nobody in the position runs like Justin.

Like Bateman, i’ve been getting offers in the 2 SF leagues I have Fields. Also nothing worth accepting, but it seems like others agree with your take here that he could become a thing.

He’s certainly in the right place for it.

What offer (picks/player) would you have considered moving Fields?

 

[dipandglide]

For those looking to take a shot on Fields what are people paying (in SF/2QB)? If you have Fields and are looking to sell what is a reasonable price you are looking at?

I think I want to get some Fields shares. I think he ends up starting sometime this year. Could flip him later for a bit of a profit or keep him as a playoff QB that can give you some crazy rushing stats.

I've been buying for mid-late 2nd's or Zamir White type of players. Fields fantasy upside is huge if he gets another shot this year or next.

 

[dipandglide]

Fields or Penix? That one should give you a headache.

Why? They are QB3's with upside. The cost is low enough to take a shot on either. Or, you can draft a Jayden Daniels at 1.03 (no thanks)

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

For those looking to take a shot on Fields what are people paying (in SF/2QB)? If you have Fields and are looking to sell what is a reasonable price you are looking at?

I think I want to get some Fields shares. I think he ends up starting sometime this year. Could flip him later for a bit of a profit or keep him as a playoff QB that can give you some crazy rushing stats.

I've been buying for mid-late 2nd's or Zamir White type of players. Fields fantasy upside is huge if he gets another shot this year or next.

I've sent out a ton of offers for late 2nds or mid 2025 2nds and have gotten exactly zero bites in superflex format. Just another data point.

 

[dipandglide]

For those looking to take a shot on Fields what are people paying (in SF/2QB)? If you have Fields and are looking to sell what is a reasonable price you are looking at?

I think I want to get some Fields shares. I think he ends up starting sometime this year. Could flip him later for a bit of a profit or keep him as a playoff QB that can give you some crazy rushing stats.

I've been buying for mid-late 2nd's or Zamir White type of players. Fields fantasy upside is huge if he gets another shot this year or next.

I've sent out a ton of offers for late 2nds or mid 2025 2nds and have gotten exactly zero bites in superflex format. Just another data point.

I sent offers out earlier in the season. I went from 0 Fields to having 4 to 5 shares at that price point. Keep trying!

Try to include Fields in a more extensive trade where he's the second or third player.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

What offer (picks/player) would you have considered moving Fields?

I was close to moving him for 2.01 + 2025 2nd (sure to be top 3) from a rebuilding team in a 12-team start 10, SF PPR non-TE-P, no D, no K league.

At 2.01 I would have taken McConkey.

Thing is my team is stacked outside of QB. So instead I dealt a future pick + player for Levis to pair with ARich. If Fields gets a shot his value immediately skyrockets.

And then I’ll consider moving him, depending on how Levis & ARich are doing.

 

[-jb-]

While Arthur Smith was objectively terrible as a HC, he got a lot out of Tannehill by using play action and boots to buy time. PIT has two competent backs that can take a Henry load in aggregate. If Fields sees time, I think this will be the method that’s used.

 

[osubuckeyeman]

What offer (picks/player) would you have considered moving Fields?

I was close to moving him for 2.01 + 2025 2nd (sure to be top 3) from a rebuilding team in a 12-team SF PPR non-TE-P, no D, no K league.

At 2.01 I would have taken McConkey.

Thing is my team is stacked outside of QB. So instead I dealt a future pick + player for Levis to pair with ARich. If Fields gets a shot his value immediately skyrockets.

And then I’ll consider moving him, depending on how Levis & ARich are doing.

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

 

[Big Nate]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

 

[Big Nate]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

 

[JohnnyU]

Fields or Penix? That one should give you a headache.

Why? They are QB3's with upside. The cost is low enough to take a shot on either. Or, you can draft a Jayden Daniels at 1.03 (no thanks)

Which one would you draft if you were deciding between the two?

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

 

[Big Nate]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fair point here, Tomlin might decide he is willing to work with Russ where DEN/Payton had no interest in working with and helping Russ.

If Russ plays decent out of the gates Fields price could drop. There has been some years where Russ starts off slow... see what happens here.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

I did say there's a non-zero chance that Russ balls out. All of my statements were hedged with "If Russ falters".

 

[Faust]

Russell Wilson on Justin Fields playing a 'Slash' role for Steelers: 'I think it would strike fear in some defenses'

 

[osubuckeyeman]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I'd argue that the number of QB needy teams this year before the draft and the compensation the Bears got from the Steelers pretty well set the market on FIelds. He'll need to start at least 6 games and do it well before anyone will take a starters stab at him. I suspect PIT will extend him with a modest 2 year contract with the carrot being he might start at any time during that period...or might not.

 

[Rockchild]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

 

[osubuckeyeman]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I'd argue that the number of QB needy teams this year before the draft and the compensation the Bears got from the Steelers pretty well set the market on FIelds. He'll need to start at least 6 games and do it well before anyone will take a starters stab at him. I suspect PIT will extend him with a modest 2 year contract with the carrot being he might start at any time during that period...or might not.

Well....The fifth-year option was the sticky point, which will be no more, and the draft class at this time is not nearly as robust. The most significant factor is Fields. He will have a full say in where he goes on his next contract. That carrot must be substantial and a much better contract than a backup typically gets. Otherwise, why not pick anywhere else of your choosing? Maybe he chooses Pittsburgh, but he will be the one choosing unless they tag him, and if that is the case, then he was the starter in 2024 at some point and played significantly well. Either way, Fields chooses if he is not tagged. Should the Steelers not play him in 2024 and then try to convince him to stay, it would be insanity on Field's part to sign back up for that. I suppose anything is possible, but that outcome is improbable. The Steelers signed Wilson, and then Fields landed in their lap. They probably have already figured out some details on when and how, and timelines depending on what happens on the field. Wilson must be on point from the word go and maintain the whole season. If that happens, they can just let Fields go and extend Wilson, sign another QB as his backup, and roll from there. This seems even more unlikely to me, but anything is possible.

 

[osubuckeyeman]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

I agree. The way QB contracts are heading could not have hurt going this route, but there would have been backlash and media criticism when picking up the option. Carolina took a lot of heat for picking up Sam Darnold's contract, and you know what? I still think it was the right call. It did not work out, but it could have, and no one has a crystal ball. If Sam had balled out, there would have been a ton of praise for the Panthers for making the right call at the right time. It did not work out, and the media went oppositely. It also would have meant the Wilson signing was a mistake and almost would have to guarantee Fields being the starter and Wilson being the backup. This way, by not picking up the fifth-year option, the Steelers can decide on the starter, remove the starter, and put Fields in later in the year. It would be much harder to flip that around after paying Fields the fifth-year option money. Wilson is almost free, so paying the fifth-year option money and replacing Fields with Watson later would have been a nightmare. Not picking up the fifth-year option does give them some flexibility in 2024, but it could bite them in the backside later if Fields balls out. Sooner or later, though, they will hopefully have to pay one of them big money, or at least they should be hoping for that; otherwise, it means they are back to square one, looking for another quarterback.

 

[Mitchie]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

he's not worth that kind of a money, would be shocked if they even considered it.

 

[Rockchild]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

he's not worth that kind of a money, would be shocked if they even considered it.

Probably not but I looked at it like combining his salary this year and the 5th year option and averaging them over two years. Which is around $14M. This would give the Steelers more time, control and options.

 

[dipandglide]

Fields or Penix? That one should give you a headache.

Why? They are QB3's with upside. The cost is low enough to take a shot on either. Or, you can draft a Jayden Daniels at 1.03 (no thanks)

Which one would you draft if you were deciding between the two?

I'd take Penix. His value is insulated for a minimum of 2-3 years. Fields is the ceiling play if you want to gamble.

 

[travdogg]

Fields or Penix? That one should give you a headache.

Why? They are QB3's with upside. The cost is low enough to take a shot on either. Or, you can draft a Jayden Daniels at 1.03 (no thanks)

Which one would you draft if you were deciding between the two?

I'd take Penix. His value is insulated for a minimum of 2-3 years. Fields is the ceiling play if you want to gamble.

I'm not sure I understand how Penix's value is insulated for 2-3 years. He could easily be completely worthless for a minimum of 2 years, and what if Cousins leads the Falcons to 2 straight division titles (a likely outcome in that division I'd argue) then what?

I think I'd bet on Fields FAR higher ceiling, and I think the floors aren't that different.

 

[dipandglide]

Fields or Penix? That one should give you a headache.

Why? They are QB3's with upside. The cost is low enough to take a shot on either. Or, you can draft a Jayden Daniels at 1.03 (no thanks)

Which one would you draft if you were deciding between the two?

I'd take Penix. His value is insulated for a minimum of 2-3 years. Fields is the ceiling play if you want to gamble.

I'm not sure I understand how Penix's value is insulated for 2-3 years. He could easily be completely worthless for a minimum of 2 years, and what if Cousins leads the Falcons to 2 straight division titles (a likely outcome in that division I'd argue) then what?

I think I'd bet on Fields FAR higher ceiling, and I think the floors aren't that different.

Anything can happen. What if Cousins isn't 100%, and Penix starts year one? You can't paint only negatives if you are going to make that argument.

Atlanta spent a top-10 pick on Penix, and barring injury, he'll get his shot. Penix will hold or gain value in the coming months/years.

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

I agree. The way QB contracts are heading could not have hurt going this route, but there would have been backlash and media criticism when picking up the option. Carolina took a lot of heat for picking up Sam Darnold's contract, and you know what? I still think it was the right call. It did not work out, but it could have, and no one has a crystal ball. If Sam had balled out, there would have been a ton of praise for the Panthers for making the right call at the right time. It did not work out, and the media went oppositely. It also would have meant the Wilson signing was a mistake and almost would have to guarantee Fields being the starter and Wilson being the backup. This way, by not picking up the fifth-year option, the Steelers can decide on the starter, remove the starter, and put Fields in later in the year. It would be much harder to flip that around after paying Fields the fifth-year option money. Wilson is almost free, so paying the fifth-year option money and replacing Fields with Watson later would have been a nightmare. Not picking up the fifth-year option does give them some flexibility in 2024, but it could bite them in the backside later if Fields balls out. Sooner or later, though, they will hopefully have to pay one of them big money, or at least they should be hoping for that; otherwise, it means they are back to square one, looking for another quarterback.

What y'all are forgetting is that Fields can sign an extension with the Steelers until July 17th this year since the 5th year option was voided. I'd make the argument that Fields probably would prefer a 2 year 18-20mil deal with the Steelers than take his chances on the open market after the season. Pittsburgh is one of the places he WANTED to be. We can guess at those reasons (coaching, culture, current players), but he wanted to be there for a reason. It's a win/win situation.

 

[Gally]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

he's not worth that kind of a money, would be shocked if they even considered it.

Probably not but I looked at it like combining his salary this year and the 5th year option and averaging them over two years. Which is around $14M. This would give the Steelers more time, control and options.

This was my exact thoughts as well. It was a relatively cheap way to give yourself two years of evaluation of Fields in your system with your coaching. It doesn't hurt you long term in any way and has a big positive if he improves and becomes your QB of the future. I though it was the obvious thing to do and was very surprised when they didn't pick it up.

 

[Big Nate]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

I agree. The way QB contracts are heading could not have hurt going this route, but there would have been backlash and media criticism when picking up the option. Carolina took a lot of heat for picking up Sam Darnold's contract, and you know what? I still think it was the right call. It did not work out, but it could have, and no one has a crystal ball. If Sam had balled out, there would have been a ton of praise for the Panthers for making the right call at the right time. It did not work out, and the media went oppositely. It also would have meant the Wilson signing was a mistake and almost would have to guarantee Fields being the starter and Wilson being the backup. This way, by not picking up the fifth-year option, the Steelers can decide on the starter, remove the starter, and put Fields in later in the year. It would be much harder to flip that around after paying Fields the fifth-year option money. Wilson is almost free, so paying the fifth-year option money and replacing Fields with Watson later would have been a nightmare. Not picking up the fifth-year option does give them some flexibility in 2024, but it could bite them in the backside later if Fields balls out. Sooner or later, though, they will hopefully have to pay one of them big money, or at least they should be hoping for that; otherwise, it means they are back to square one, looking for another quarterback.

What y'all are forgetting is that Fields can sign an extension with the Steelers until July 17th this year since the 5th year option was voided. I'd make the argument that Fields probably would prefer a 2 year 18-20mil deal with the Steelers than take his chances on the open market after the season. Pittsburgh is one of the places he WANTED to be. We can guess at those reasons (coaching, culture, current players), but he wanted to be there for a reason. It's a win/win situation.

Some good points here. He wanted to be in PITT and the fit is very good for that offense. I think it is a win/win if they can extend him for 2 years.

 

[Mitchie]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

he's not worth that kind of a money, would be shocked if they even considered it.

Probably not but I looked at it like combining his salary this year and the 5th year option and averaging them over two years. Which is around $14M. This would give the Steelers more time, control and options.

This was my exact thoughts as well. It was a relatively cheap way to give yourself two years of evaluation of Fields in your system with your coaching. It doesn't hurt you long term in any way and has a big positive if he improves and becomes your QB of the future. I though it was the obvious thing to do and was very surprised when they didn't pick it up.

everything has an appropriate price. overpaying for assets hurts the team long term. they have him at a cheap salary. Paying 20+ mn for an additional year for a backup Qb does not make sense from a business standpoint. understand some think he's the QB of the future but the odds of that happening vs. not happening have to be considered. history says the odds are stacked against him.

 

[Gally]

everything has an appropriate price. overpaying for assets hurts the team long term. they have him at a cheap salary. Paying 20+ mn for an additional year for a backup Qb does not make sense from a business standpoint. understand some think he's the QB of the future but the odds of that happening vs. not happening have to be considered. history says the odds are stacked against him.

But that business decision also has to factor in if he does become the starter in this year without that 5th year option and what that price for a new contract will balloon to. That is part of the equation as well.

For me, the chances of flame out vs becoming the starter are more in the 40 (flame out) -60 (starter) range so the 5th year option was the way to go IMO.

 

[Big Nate]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

he's not worth that kind of a money, would be shocked if they even considered it.

Probably not but I looked at it like combining his salary this year and the 5th year option and averaging them over two years. Which is around $14M. This would give the Steelers more time, control and options.

This was my exact thoughts as well. It was a relatively cheap way to give yourself two years of evaluation of Fields in your system with your coaching. It doesn't hurt you long term in any way and has a big positive if he improves and becomes your QB of the future. I though it was the obvious thing to do and was very surprised when they didn't pick it up.

everything has an appropriate price. overpaying for assets hurts the team long term. they have him at a cheap salary. Paying 20+ mn for an additional year for a backup Qb does not make sense from a business standpoint. understand some think he's the QB of the future but the odds of that happening vs. not happening have to be considered. history says the odds are stacked against him.

Wilson is on a 1-year $1.2M contract this year with Pitt. Dirt cheap. He is a FA in 2025. Signing Fields to a 2-year contract at 15 or even 20M is dirt cheap for a QB and would allow PItt to use the "saved" money elsewhere in 2025. It really is a win-win while they figure out the QB situation.

I've said this in the Miami thread about Tua and the MIA QB situation. Everyone throws around that all these QBs "suck". Tell me where PITT is going to find this magical QB that is going to come in and play for cheap and be a top 10 QB?

I have no idea what Fields will be asking for or what PITT might offer him but it really could be a good deal for both while Fields and Pitt sort out the QB situation. A feeling out process for both.

Geno Smith is set to make $25M in 2025. Baker Mayfield is going to make $30M in 2025.

For those that don't like Fields and think $20M is too much please tell me where this better QB is coming from and how much you are willing to pay.

 

[Mitchie]

everything has an appropriate price. overpaying for assets hurts the team long term. they have him at a cheap salary. Paying 20+ mn for an additional year for a backup Qb does not make sense from a business standpoint. understand some think he's the QB of the future but the odds of that happening vs. not happening have to be considered. history says the odds are stacked against him.

But that business decision also has to factor in if he does become the starter in this year without that 5th year option and what that price for a new contract will balloon to. That is part of the equation as well.

For me, the chances of flame out vs becoming the starter are more in the 40 (flame out) -60 (starter) range so the 5th year option was the way to go IMO.

i'm sure it was part of the equation, guessing Steelers had different odds than you.

 

[Mitchie]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

he's not worth that kind of a money, would be shocked if they even considered it.

Probably not but I looked at it like combining his salary this year and the 5th year option and averaging them over two years. Which is around $14M. This would give the Steelers more time, control and options.

This was my exact thoughts as well. It was a relatively cheap way to give yourself two years of evaluation of Fields in your system with your coaching. It doesn't hurt you long term in any way and has a big positive if he improves and becomes your QB of the future. I though it was the obvious thing to do and was very surprised when they didn't pick it up.

everything has an appropriate price. overpaying for assets hurts the team long term. they have him at a cheap salary. Paying 20+ mn for an additional year for a backup Qb does not make sense from a business standpoint. understand some think he's the QB of the future but the odds of that happening vs. not happening have to be considered. history says the odds are stacked against him.

Wilson is on a 1-year $1.2M contract this year with Pitt. Dirt cheap. He is a FA in 2025. Signing Fields to a 2-year contract at 15 or even 20M is dirt cheap for a QB and would allow PItt to use the "saved" money elsewhere in 2025. It really is a win-win while they figure out the QB situation.

I've said this in the Miami thread about Tua and the MIA QB situation. Everyone throws around that all these QBs "suck". Tell me where PITT is going to find this magical QB that is going to come in and play for cheap and be a top 10 QB?

I have no idea what Fields will be asking for or what PITT might offer him but it really could be a good deal for both while Fields and Pitt sort out the QB situation. A feeling out process for both.

Geno Smith is set to make $25M in 2025. Baker Mayfield is going to make $30M in 2025.

For those that don't like Fields and think $20M is too much please tell me where this better QB is coming from and how much you are willing to pay.

Russ is likely the better QB. Also would easily take Geno or Baker.

 

[Big Nate]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

he's not worth that kind of a money, would be shocked if they even considered it.

Probably not but I looked at it like combining his salary this year and the 5th year option and averaging them over two years. Which is around $14M. This would give the Steelers more time, control and options.

This was my exact thoughts as well. It was a relatively cheap way to give yourself two years of evaluation of Fields in your system with your coaching. It doesn't hurt you long term in any way and has a big positive if he improves and becomes your QB of the future. I though it was the obvious thing to do and was very surprised when they didn't pick it up.

everything has an appropriate price. overpaying for assets hurts the team long term. they have him at a cheap salary. Paying 20+ mn for an additional year for a backup Qb does not make sense from a business standpoint. understand some think he's the QB of the future but the odds of that happening vs. not happening have to be considered. history says the odds are stacked against him.

Wilson is on a 1-year $1.2M contract this year with Pitt. Dirt cheap. He is a FA in 2025. Signing Fields to a 2-year contract at 15 or even 20M is dirt cheap for a QB and would allow PItt to use the "saved" money elsewhere in 2025. It really is a win-win while they figure out the QB situation.

I've said this in the Miami thread about Tua and the MIA QB situation. Everyone throws around that all these QBs "suck". Tell me where PITT is going to find this magical QB that is going to come in and play for cheap and be a top 10 QB?

I have no idea what Fields will be asking for or what PITT might offer him but it really could be a good deal for both while Fields and Pitt sort out the QB situation. A feeling out process for both.

Geno Smith is set to make $25M in 2025. Baker Mayfield is going to make $30M in 2025.

For those that don't like Fields and think $20M is too much please tell me where this better QB is coming from and how much you are willing to pay.

Russ is likely the better QB. Also would easily take Geno or Baker.

Well if Russ balls out then no worry for PITT but he's going to cost a lot then. Wilson does turn 36 during the season so he's not young. If you would rather take Geno or Baker how would you make that work as PITT in a trade?

Everyone wants to crap on the QBs until the realize it isn't easy even getting a top 20 QB let alone top 10.

 

[Mitchie]

I would say his ability to get a shot is 100%. If you were going to extend Wilson or Fields, and I'm speaking from a real-world perspective, Pittsburgh would want to see Fields. Where Wilson is in his career, and Field's is in his is reason enough. Fields can open up the offense in ways that Wilson can't. It's as easy as night and day for me. Wilson will have to ball out at a rate that is going to keep Fields on the bench, and even if that were to happen, Fields would be on a new team next season. Of course, his value would tank at that point.

This is what’s been bouncing around my brain since he went to PIT.

And if Russ falters at all, and they’re like 1-4, maybe 2-5 to start the season, I could see a quick hook to find out what they have in JF.

Some speculate the BYE, but that’s a murderer’s row schedule and they’ll likely want to make the switch with enough time to salvage playoff hopes.

Of course Russ could ball out. That’s possible. But I agree that Fields is likely their preferred long-term investment if things break right.

Wow that schedule to finish the season is nasty for PITT. If Russ hasn't failed by mid-season that final stretch could end him.

Last 8 games: Ravens, Browns, Bengals, Browns, Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals. OOF

Yep - that’s what I’m sayin. And it would make sense to make the change before then to fairly evaluate Fields & acclimate him in the offense before hitting that brutal stretch, if they’re going to do it.

I can’t see getting to the BYE & throwing JF to the wolves like that.

Let's go over the scenarios here and say that Wilson is done by mid-season as they want to see what they have with Fields. No hating on Russ but PITT needs to know what they have with Fields.

Could go either way:

1) PITT gets eaten alive in the last 8 games and get pummeled. Fields isn't the guy and they go into 2025 with an early pick and look to get a QB.

or

2) Fields plays well enough and uses his legs to keep them going down the stretch in the final 8 games. Plays well enough to get another shot in 2025.

Which do we see happening? A middling final 8 games could be rough for PITT as they won't be in a spot to get an early QB/pick. So they might have to stick with Fields/Russ into 2025 if they finish 8-9 or close to it.

What do people put the odd of Fields being their starter in 2025? Right now I feel pretty comfortable saying PITT would stick it out for one more year (2025) to see what they have in Fields and if they can salvage him.

As mentioned before the culture and fit for Fields in PITT is way better than in CHI. PITT will have a legit running game threat where (as someone mentioned above) the play action could open up a lot of stuff for Fields as it did with Tannehill in TEN.

I'm talking myself into Fields here.... lol

Folks are discounting Russ a good bit here. He played pretty well down the stretch last season until DEN decided to shut him down. I'd guess we're looking at 50% starters chance for Russ, 25% for Fields and 25% for Other in 2025. Extend Fields during the season on a 2 year backup pay contract and let him learn and unlearn all the nonsense he got himself into in CHI. Give Russ another 1 year deal to play in 2025 if he runs the offense efficiently. Then transition to Fields in 2026 as the starter on a starters contract.

Fields has no intention of being a backup in 2025, and if he does, it most likely won't be in Pittsburgh. I'm not discounting Russ at all. But just where they are in age and career points to Fields getting a shot in 2024. Fields is a UFA in 2025, and I guess he will have a much easier time finding a team than his trade market was. There is no fifth-year option price and zero compensation to give up with a not-so-good QB draft class. At least, that is what it looks like now. Pittsburgh would be ill-managed entirely, not at least not to see what Fields can bring to the table before potentially losing him in free agency.

I thought that they should have picked up his 5th year option just to control him for another year and give themselves more time to see what they have.

he's not worth that kind of a money, would be shocked if they even considered it.

Probably not but I looked at it like combining his salary this year and the 5th year option and averaging them over two years. Which is around $14M. This would give the Steelers more time, control and options.

This was my exact thoughts as well. It was a relatively cheap way to give yourself two years of evaluation of Fields in your system with your coaching. It doesn't hurt you long term in any way and has a big positive if he improves and becomes your QB of the future. I though it was the obvious thing to do and was very surprised when they didn't pick it up.

everything has an appropriate price. overpaying for assets hurts the team long term. they have him at a cheap salary. Paying 20+ mn for an additional year for a backup Qb does not make sense from a business standpoint. understand some think he's the QB of the future but the odds of that happening vs. not happening have to be considered. history says the odds are stacked against him.

Wilson is on a 1-year $1.2M contract this year with Pitt. Dirt cheap. He is a FA in 2025. Signing Fields to a 2-year contract at 15 or even 20M is dirt cheap for a QB and would allow PItt to use the "saved" money elsewhere in 2025. It really is a win-win while they figure out the QB situation.

I've said this in the Miami thread about Tua and the MIA QB situation. Everyone throws around that all these QBs "suck". Tell me where PITT is going to find this magical QB that is going to come in and play for cheap and be a top 10 QB?

I have no idea what Fields will be asking for or what PITT might offer him but it really could be a good deal for both while Fields and Pitt sort out the QB situation. A feeling out process for both.

Geno Smith is set to make $25M in 2025. Baker Mayfield is going to make $30M in 2025.

For those that don't like Fields and think $20M is too much please tell me where this better QB is coming from and how much you are willing to pay.

Russ is likely the better QB. Also would easily take Geno or Baker.

Well if Russ balls out then no worry for PITT but he's going to cost a lot then. Wilson does turn 36 during the season so he's not young. If you would rather take Geno or Baker how would you make that work as PITT in a trade?

Everyone wants to crap on the QBs until the realize it isn't easy even getting a top 20 QB let alone top 10.

i wouldn't trade for either right now. Pitt is very fortunate to have both guys for really cheap. They can let things play out this year.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Justin Fields Has 'Zero' Chance Of Unseating Russell Wilson, Kaboly Says: Sometimes Looks Like Big Ben, Sometimes Mark Malone

Nobody can seem to stop talking about Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ new quarterbacks. Neither of them has posted a winning record in the past three years, but surely they are the ticket to the Steelers’ success. Even within that group, Mark Kaboly sees a clear...

steelersdepot.com

 

[osubuckeyeman]

everything has an appropriate price. overpaying for assets hurts the team long term. they have him at a cheap salary. Paying 20+ mn for an additional year for a backup Qb does not make sense from a business standpoint. understand some think he's the QB of the future but the odds of that happening vs. not happening have to be considered. history says the odds are stacked against him.

But that business decision also has to factor in if he does become the starter in this year without that 5th year option and what that price for a new contract will balloon to. That is part of the equation as well.

For me, the chances of flame out vs becoming the starter are more in the 40 (flame out) -60 (starter) range so the 5th year option was the way to go IMO.

I see why they did not pick up the fifth-year option, and I can also see why you would; both are fine options with different pros and cons. Had they picked up the fifth-year option, Fields would be starting, and Wilson would be the backup, and that is fine. I would have been happy with that, but more likely, Wilson would not have been happy, and there could have been issues there. Even that would have not been a big deal. Just cut Wilson loose and pick up another backup QB. How they are doing it now allows them to play Wilson as a starter and see how it works out. The best thing that can happen is one of the two hits, and you can tag/extend either one of them if you like and keep control for another season or have your QB of the now and future. The difference is the price break. The tag is always in their back pocket for either. I do not think either has a no-tag or trade clause. And depending on the tag price for next season, should one of these two ball out and want to go nuclear on their earning potential, you can always franchise tag the player and kick the can down the road another season if you had to. It's not ideal, and an extension would be great in that scenario, but the tag is there just in case. The worst thing that could happen is both fail and you are looking for a QB next season in the draft or free agency. I listed the projected tag cost for 2025 below. According to ESPN, Field's 5th-year option price would have been 25 million.

The projected cost for a franchise tag for a QB in 2025.

Position	Franchise Tag	Transition Tag
QB	$42,472,000	$35,972,000

 

[TheDirtyWord]

Waaaaayyyyyyy too much smoke here for Fields to not be overdrafted this year.

 

[osubuckeyeman]

Waaaaayyyyyyy too much smoke here for Fields to not be overdrafted this year.

I don't think that necessarily should be the case. I think Wilson could be in line for a good portion of the snaps in 2024. Taking a gamble on Fields at some point could pay off in Fantasy. The price for taking that gamble is what managers will have to figure out, but the upside of his rushing late in the season is alluring for sure. He could be a decent trade target mid-season or even someone you can profit on toward the trade deadline, but it could pop off at any point. The risk vs reward tolerance level is what you need to weigh. I won't be buying myself but I'm holding in the league I have him in for sure.

 

[Faust]

Zachary Krueger
Justin Fields struggling to process quickly. Struggling with accuracy. Underwhelming in 7-on-7s.

Not exactly what you want to hear from a former No. 11 pick entering his fourth season.

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[Faust]

Ex-Steelers star has concerning take on Justin Fields video

 

[Faust]

Training Camp: What We Learned from 'Back Together Weekend' Sunday

Excerpt:

1) Justin Fields starting to make a move on Russell Wilson?​

With Russell Wilson sidelined with a calf injury for another day of training camp practice, the door remains ajar for Justin Fields to make a run at the starting job.
Wilson has been sidelined since Thursday, with head coach Mike Tomlin indicating Saturday that he's erring on the side of caution with a quarterback he's still getting to know. The plan is for Wilson to have his calf tested again Monday, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported, but until he's cleared to practice, he'll be resigned to "mental reps," trying to keep pace while absent from the field.
Wilson exited organized team activities as the presumed QB1, with Tomlin indicating Wilson had the "pole position" in the battle this offseason. He also had taken nearly all the first-team reps to start training camp, and as recently as last week Tomlin indicated that “nothing has changed” in the QB hierarchy.
But the big news has been that Fields has made the most of the extended opportunity to this point. Fields has responded with a strong few days of practice. His pretty deep ball Thursday to Van Jefferson drew a roar from the fans in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Then on Friday, Fields hit George Pickens on another long crowd pleaser.
Sunday was merely a walkthrough, but it was the fourth straight practice Wilson has missed. According to Garafolo, Steelers players and coaches alike have seen Fields' steady improvement.
There's a new offensive coordinator in Arthur Smith, and both quarterbacks are trying to learn the system. Neither man is an incumbent; both started elsewhere last season. Sure, Wilson is the more established QB, but Tomlin proved last season he'll ignore pedigree for proficiency when he kept Kenny Pickett on the bench for Mason Rudolph, who played better down the stretch.
So could a QB change come? It's possible, even if this battle appears to have a long way to go before it's decided. Either way, things in Pittsburgh appear to be a lot more interesting now.

 

[Faust]

Dov Kleiman
Justin Fields is going to win the starting job...

#Steelers QB1

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