Saturday evening when the news of the Pittsburgh Steelers trading a conditional 2025 4th Round draft pick to the Chicago Bears for quarterback Justin Fields became public, many were wondering if this was setting up a crazy quarterback competition this summer. Well, if you were ready for Russell Wilson vs. Justin Fields, you might be disappointed.

The reports coming from both local and national media shortly after the trade became official suggested there won’t be quarterback competition this summer. Instead, Fields will backup Wilson, and this was something Mike Tomlin was reportedly clear with before they acquired Fields via trade.

This per Albert Breer:

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin was upfront with Justin Fields—told him that Russell Wilson is the starter, and Fields will work from there. Fields has told people he’s excited for the new beginning.

Tomlin’s connections at Ohio State run deep, so that didn’t hurt.

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 16, 2024

Does this mean Fields will do nothing but watch and learn? Hardly. The Steelers could absolutely use Fields’ athleticism and running ability like they did with Kordell Stewart back in the mid-90s. Also, if Wilson struggles or gets hurt, Fields will have the opportunity to prove to the Steelers, and the rest of the NFL, whether he will ever get the chance to be a true QB1 anymore moving forward.

The Steelers have until May 2nd to exercise the 5th year option on Fields, something which is unlikely considering the price tag for a quarterback’s 5th year option. Nonetheless, the team will have the ability to re-sign Fields after the 2024 season if they choose to do so after the season.

Be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they continue to add to the roster, and prepare for the 2024 NFL Draft.