Steelers Reportedly Still Interested In Justin Fields
The Pittsburgh Steelers remain interested in Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields, this according to multiple league sources.
After officially introducing Russell Wilson at his press conference on Friday, the Steelers made perhaps the most stunning move of the offseason, just a few hours later, as Kenny Pickett was traded to the other side of the state to the Philadelphia Eagles, for which Pittsburgh received a 2024 third round draft pick (98th overall), as well as a pair of seventh round picks for 2025.
Fields completed his third season as Bears quarterback in 2023. The 25-year-old played in 13 games, as he threw for 2,562 yards, with a 16-9 TD/INT ratio, and a passer rating of 86.3. He also ran for 657 yards, and found the end zone with his legs four times.
The Steelers reportedly had previous interest in trading for Fields during the NFL Combine earlier this month, but the asking price was deemed “too high”.
A lot has changed in that short time however, with numerous noteworthy quarterbacks finding QB1 jobs elsewhere, which seemingly could hurt the Bears’ leverage in getting what they truly want, for the former Ohio State standout. Perhaps the third round pick the Steelers obtained in the Pickett trade can be used to flip to Chicago, in order to get a Fields deal complete.
Whether it’s the Bears, or a team that trades for Fields, a decision would have to be made on his fifth-year option for 2025, which will be around $25.6 million. Unless of course a contract extension is worked out to where the average annual pay wouldn’t come near that.
If the Steelers decide not to pursue a Fields trade, then maybe they look to sign Ryan Tannehill, or bring back Josh Dobbs, as alternative options.