Russell Wilson or Justin Fields? Gardner Minshew or Aidan O’Connell? Predictions for two true QB battles

The former first-round pick certainly flashed in Chicago, but overall, he did not play up to expectations with the Bears. That said, the Steelers are getting an A-level athlete with outstanding tools as a dual-threat playmaker. Fields’ combination of size (6-foot-3, 227 pounds), speed (a reported 4.44-second 40-yard dash at his pre-draft pro day) and arm talent could make him a potential superstar if Smith can unlock his potential in an offense built for an athletic quarterback with running skills. 

Considering Fields’ status as a former 1,100-yard rusher (in 2022) with a rugged game and unlimited range as a passer, the Steelers could tap into a read-option ground attack and vertical passing game to create explosive plays on the perimeter. Though Fields’ athleticism has led to speculation about the former No. 11 overall pick taking on a Kordell Stewart-type “slash” role while serving as Wilson’s apprentice, he could wrestle the QB1 job away from the veteran due to the offense’s big-play potential with him at the helm. 

While questions persist regarding Fields’ skills as a pocket passer due to his inconsistent accuracy, ball placement and timing, the 25-year-old could flourish in a system that creates easy throws for the quarterback off play-action fakes. Given Smith’s success in utilizing a similar approach to unlock Tannehill’s game, the football world could see Fields play his best ball in the ‘Burgh.