Heading into Week 7, it looks like the Pittsburgh Steelers are set to start veteran quarterback Russell Wilson against the New York Jets on “Sunday Night Football.” Justin Fields, who has helped the Steelers achieve a 4-2 record in the first six games, recently shared his thoughts on being replaced by Wilson.
“If I’m being real with you, I don’t think I played good enough,” Fields remarked, as reported by Mike DeFabo of The Athletic. “If I’m being honest with myself, if I had played well enough, there wouldn’t be any question about who should be starting.”
Regardless of his current status, Fields’ humility is something Steelers fans can admire. Now, he will watch as Wilson, the former Super Bowl champion, prepares to make his season debut after recovering from a calf injury.
Although Wilson’s time with the Denver Broncos was not particularly successful, he still managed to throw 26 touchdown passes against just eight interceptions last season. This nine-time Pro Bowler has another opportunity to demonstrate his ability to excel and win games in the NFL.
If Wilson hadn’t shown promise in practice, head coach Mike Tomlin likely wouldn’t have opted to start him after Fields’ performance in the first six games. For Wilson to gain the approval of fans in the Steel City, he will need to exceed Fields’ achievements.
During his time as the starter, Fields accumulated 10 total touchdowns and only one interception. If Wilson can replicate that performance without turnovers, Pittsburgh could enhance its chances of competing for a playoff spot in the AFC, especially given the strong showing of its defense.