The Pittsburgh Steelers made some big moves over the offseason. No moves have a higher potential impact than the acquisitions of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, completely overhauling a quarterback room in desperate need of a makeover. Training camp kicks off in a few short days, and Wilson enters camp as the frontrunner to win the starting job.
Despite that, training camp will still be a crucial three weeks for Justin Fields. He needs to get started on the right foot in Pittsburgh by making a good first impression with a strong showing at camp.
Setting Expectations for Justin Fields at Steelers Training Camp
Be a Sponge
The most important thing Justin Fields can do at Steelers training camp is learn as much as possible. Like Wilson, he is coming into a completely new system with new teammates and new coaches. Building a connection with his offensive line and wide receivers will be critical for the young quarterback. His physical potential is undeniable, but Fields has struggled with the mental side of the game so far in his young career. Getting comfortable in a new place with new faces is the first and most important step.
Justin Fields needs to absorb a ton of information at training camp, both from his coaches and Russell Wilson. It will be beneficial for Fields to work closely with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and quarterbacks coach Tom Arth. They should be excited about working with a young, talented player like Fields, too. But Fields should also look to learn from Wilson. The veteran quarterback’s intelligence on the field, leadership, and preparation are all aspects that Fields should look to emulate.
Showcase His Versatility
Arthur Smith likes to feature the running game in his offenses, which will play right into Fields’ strengths. Fields have serious arm talent, but the rushing part of his game is more refined. With Fields being such a good athlete, Smith will undoubtedly install some creative packages or plays to capitalize on Fields’ athleticism. Whether Smith utilizes two-quarterback looks or wildcat-type packages with Fields at quarterback remains to be seen. But with the unique skillset of Justin Fields, there is serious potential for creativity that Smith should be looking to tap into.
Make a Push For the Starting Job
While it may be unlikely, the ultimate goal of Justin Fields at training camp is to win the starting quarterback job. Mike Tomlin has made it clear numerous times this offseason that Wilson will start camp in pole position for QB1. That is not a nail in the coffin for Fields’ chances, though. Wilson, despite showing plenty of flashes of his old self, is clearly on the back end of his career. If he begins to regress further, whether at camp or during the season, Fields will be waiting in the wings.
Even if Fields doesn’t win the starting job at camp and enters the season as QB2, a strong camp will make the Steelers much more comfortable making the switch if it becomes necessary. If Fields doesn’t look the part at camp or during the preseason, Tomlin and Smith won’t feel confident in starting Fields, even if Wilson struggles mightily. To set himself up for a productive future, Fields just needs to show he is capable of being QB1 at camp; he doesn’t need to outright win the job.
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