by The Pittsburgh Steelers’ decision to trade Justin Fields to the New York Jets last offseason is increasingly justified as Fields struggles to find success in a challenging Jets environment.
Meanwhile, the Steelers appear steady under Mason Rudolph and Will Howard as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.
What Happened
Last year, the Steelers traded for Justin Fields but did not invest a premium draft pick in acquiring him, a move that raised questions at the time.
Fields, now starting quarterback for the New York Jets, faces a tough situation with a new coaching staff, a weak offensive line, and a struggling franchise.
Key Details
- Fields has endured a rocky start with the Jets, often under heavy pressure.
- In practice, Fields was sacked six times in 10 drop-backs, completing only three of the remaining four attempts.
- A notable missed opportunity came when Fields failed to connect on a wide-open deep pass that could have been a touchdown.
- The Jets’ offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand, a first-timer at the NFL level, and head coach Aaron Glenn, also new to the role, add to the growing pains for the young quarterback.
- In contrast, the Steelers continue to rely on Mason Rudolph and Will Howard as their quarterback options, projecting stability.
Reactions and Statements
NFL analyst Connor Hughes of SNY highlighted Fields’ struggles, emphasizing the pressure and missed plays during Jets practice.
While Hughes remains optimistic about the Jets’ new regime, he notes that Fields’ performance underscores the challenges ahead.
Inside the Steelers camp, there is confidence in Mike Tomlin’s leadership and a belief that Mason Rudolph will lead the team to a respectable season, potentially winning nine to ten games despite criticism of the current roster.
Investigation or What’s Next
The Jets face an uncertain future with Fields at quarterback. Without significant talent improvements or coaching adjustments, the team is unlikely to contend with division leaders like the Buffalo Bills.
Analysts predict the Jets could finish with a losing record, securing another top-10 draft pick in 2026.
Meanwhile, the Steelers plan to continue building around their current quarterbacks while focusing on team cohesion and strategic improvements. The franchise’s stability could contrast sharply with the Jets’ ongoing struggles.
FAQs
Q1: Why did the Steelers trade Justin Fields?
A1: The Steelers questioned Fields’ consistency and fit within their system, opting to develop Mason Rudolph and Will Howard instead.
Q2: How is Justin Fields performing with the Jets?
A2: Fields is struggling under pressure, missing key throws and adapting to a new coaching staff and weak offensive line.
Q3: What are the Jets’ prospects this season?
A3: The Jets face challenges competing in a strong AFC East and may finish with a losing record, aiming to rebuild through the draft.
Q4: How are the Steelers expected to perform?
A4: The Steelers project to win 9-10 games with Rudolph or Howard, maintaining competitiveness under coach Mike Tomlin.
Q5: Could Fields improve with the Jets?
A5: Improvement depends on coaching stability and roster upgrades; however, current trends suggest ongoing struggles.
Summary / Final Takeaway
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ cautious approach with Justin Fields appears prudent as Fields faces a tough transition with the Jets.
While the Steelers focus on steady leadership at quarterback, the Jets’ quarterback controversy and franchise instability cast doubt on their immediate future.
For now, the Steelers look validated in their decision to let Fields go and trust in their current roster heading into the 2025 season.
