Russell Wilson has steered the Pittsburgh Steelers to a commendable 4-1 record since assuming the starting quarterback role, yet his contract is ticking down with an end date set for the close of the 2024 season.
The veteran encountered his first defeat in the leading role during Thursday Night Football, as the Steelers lost 24-19 to the Cleveland Browns amidst a relentless snowstorm.
Despite heading into the AFC North clash at the top of their division, Pittsburgh’s offensive efforts floundered in the frosty weather, failing to score despite Wilson’s proficient 21-of-28 pass completions, which racked up 270 yards and included a touchdown.
Before Wilson took the reins, Justin Fields was the starter for the Steelers’ first six weeks, delivering a solid if not spectacular performance that saw the team notch a 4-2 record under his guidance.
Fields amassed 1,106 passing yards, threw five touchdowns against a single interception, and contributed an additional 231 yards and five touchdowns with his legs.
Following coach Mike Tomlin’s decision to switch to Wilson, Fields has seen action intermittently. He clinched a victory over the Baltimore Ravens by exploiting his running ability to secure a crucial first down and also played during the loss to the Browns.
In the wake of the triumph over the Ravens, Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith expressed his high regard for Fields to the press, saying: “I still view Justin and he is, I think, [a] premium starter in this league, so it’s a fine line. You don’t want to be a gadget guy, but he can help the team.”
Considering both Wilson and Fields are on one-year contracts, and with Fields being over a decade younger, the Steelers might opt to proceed with the former Chicago Bears quarterback in 2025. If Wilson leaves Pittsburgh for the next season, he has three options.
Cleveland Browns
Currently, the Cleveland Browns hold the No. 7 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The upcoming class lacks top-tier quarterback talent, while players like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward are expected to be selected earlier. The Browns are still tied to Deshaun Watson, but the team is likely to part ways with him in the forthcoming offseason.
With talent on both sides of the ball, the Browns could bring in Wilson to attempt to return the franchise to the play-offs. The icing on the cake would be signing a quarterback from their division rivals.
Carolina Panthers
Earlier this season, the Panthers chose to bench struggling second-year pro Bryce Young in favour of veteran Andy Dalton. Dalton’s injury allowed Young to return, and although his performances have improved and he secured a win last time, the Panthers will be considering all options.
Given that the NFC South franchise is undergoing a complete rebuild, a move for Wilson may seem unlikely. However, a steady veteran presence who is better equipped than Dalton to compete could be what the Panthers need moving forward.
New York Giants
The New York Giants are expected to be in the market for a top quarterback prospect in the forthcoming draft, following their decision to part ways with Daniel Jones. The Giants confirmed their split from the 2019 first-round pick on Friday, after a disappointing 20-17 defeat to the Carolina Panthers in Germany left them languishing at 2-8.
However, if Tommy DeVito can steer the team to some late victories and the franchise grows desperate, a starting role could become available for someone like Wilson. The Tennessee Titans may also consider Wilson, given the erratic performances of Will Levis, but it’s anticipated that the AFC South outfit will stick with their current quarterback for another year – unless they’re able to secure Sanders or Ward.
