The Pittsburgh Steelers’ playoff hopes are on veteran Russell Wilson or speedy Justin Fields, but can either realistically haul them to the postseason?
According to NFL analyst Joe Fortenbaugh, the answer is a firm no. He recently voiced the reasoning for his doubts about the Steelers quarterback room during an episode of ESPN’s First Take.
“I know it’s going to come across as extreme disrespect to Tomlin and the Steelers. I don’t think either guy gets them to the playoffs,” Fortenbaugh said. “Here are their two options this year: one is the guy who was traded for a sixth-round pick in his prime at the most important position on the field. The other guy played for a team that suffered the largest dead-cap hit in NFL history just to get him off the roster.”
.@JoeFortenbaugh doesn’t believe either Justin Fields or Russell Wilson can lead the Steelers to the playoffs 😯 pic.twitter.com/GIo8MT3rm3
— First Take (@FirstTake) July 26, 2024
As Forternbaugh pointed out, each of the QB’s has serious flaws, so the decision is up to Tomlin. Does he prefer the safer, less aggressive option in Wilson or the high-risk, high-reward player in Fields?
The reality for Pittsburgh is their defense will determine if a playoff appearance is made. The core of T.J. Watt, Cameron Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Patrick Queen is a much more promising unit than the offense. Health will play an important factor in their success, as Watt, Heyward, and Fitzpatrick missed substantial time in recent seasons.
