The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to be in the quarterback market this offseason, especially as both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields are set to hit unrestricted free agency. Neither quarterback had a standout 2024 season, which raises questions about the team’s plans for the future at the position.
Russell Wilson’s Struggles
Wilson began the season as the Steelers’ starting quarterback, and while he showed some promise early on, his performance significantly declined towards the end of the year. He was particularly poor during the Steelers’ four-game losing streak to close the regular season, followed by a disappointing playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
Justin Fields’ Short Stint
Fields started the first six games of the season while Wilson dealt with a calf injury. Despite a few bright spots, including ten touchdowns and only two turnovers, Fields’ performance wasn’t enough to keep the starting job. He finished with a 4-2 record but was replaced by Wilson when he returned from injury in Week 7.
Potential Target: Daniel Jones
As the Steelers look to address their quarterback situation, **Daniel Jones** of the Minnesota Vikings has been suggested as a potential option. Jones, who will turn 28 next season, had a mixed career with the New York Giants before being waived midway through the 2024 season. Despite occasional flashes of good play, Jones struggled with a poor offensive line and lack of reliable receivers during his time with the Giants, which parallels some of the challenges he could face in Pittsburgh.
Jones’ Career and Fit with the Steelers
Jones’ best season came in 2022, when he helped the Giants win a playoff game while keeping turnovers in check. However, his overall performance has been inconsistent, and he has never truly been able to establish himself as a top-tier starting quarterback in the NFL. While he could provide depth for the Steelers and would likely come at a low cost, signing him as the starting quarterback would not be a wise move for a team looking to compete in a tough AFC.
Jones could potentially offer solid depth on a cheap contract, but his ceiling is as a backup or emergency starter rather than the solution to Pittsburgh’s quarterback problems. If the Steelers are serious about competing in 2025, they should avoid signing Jones with the expectation of him being a full-time starter.
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