After an awful end-of-season collapse, the Pittsburgh Steelers might be changing their mind about the team’s future quarterback. Given the multiple reports, Pittsburgh is already in talks with quarterback Justin Fields about a possible extension. 

The dual-threat passer started the first six games for the black and gold, leading the team with a 4-2 record. However, due to a returning Russell Wilson, Fields was benched in a shocking move. 

This unexpected change at quarterback proved to be effective, as Wilson led the team to a 4-0 record as the starter, significantly expanding the offensive production. Due to the veteran’s great play in the first few weeks, Wilson was projected to earn himself an extension, similar to Baker Mayfield’s. 

“There is a very good chance Steelers extend Russell Wilson similarly to what Tampa did with Baker Mayfield — 3 years, $100 million.” ESPN analyst Jordan Schultz said. 

Wilson’s production significantly declined after a strong start to the season, losing the last five games. The final one came in the Wild Card to the Baltimore Ravens. 

This shift in play changed the narrative in Pittsburgh, as many fans began to demand for Fields to start during the team’s playoff appearance. Now the season is over, Fields is now the favorite to stay with the black and gold.

If the Steelers extend Fields, the potential grows but adds more questions. Pittsburgh is in a win-now position, as many of the team’s best players are in the later stages of their careers. While the offense is likely to perform better with Fields, the time required for that offensive development might be too long. 

This is why keeping both quarterbacks will be the best option for the team. Although money concerns may arise, Russell Wilson’s age could make him eligible for a hometown discount. This idea would leave more money on the table for Fields to commit to a long-term deal. 

“I would do everything I could to sign him and also try to keep Justin Fields. That would be my wish list. I would try to keep them both. I would keep Russ at the position and let Fields continue to learn,” Former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said on his podcast.