By Anthony Caruso III | Publisher
For the second straight day, the Pittsburgh Steelers have made a trade involving a quarterback. On Friday, they traded former starter Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles.
One day later, the Steelers acquired former Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields. In exchange, the Bears received a 2025 sixth-round draft pick.
The pick, depending on Fields playing time, could turn into a fourth-round draft pick.
Fields will serve as the backup for Russell Wilson. At least initially barring a significant injury during the season.
The Steelers plan to have Wilson mentor Fields. Then, when Wilson leaves after the season, Fields could turn into their starting quarterback. And potentially a franchise quarterback.
Wilson officially signed with the Steelers on Friday. He had agreed to a one-year deal with the team.
He will be paid a league minimum of $1.2 million for the 2024 season. The Broncos are paying him nearly $40 million this upcoming season after his release.
The Steelers now have a quarterback room that will cost them less than $5 million. Fields will make $3.3 million in 2024.
Plus, the Steelers will now be responsible for Fields’ fifth-year option in 2025. It is slated to be worth $25 million.
The Bears hold the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. This time, they’re not trading away the top pick.
The team plans to use the top pick on projected No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams in April’s Draft. Last year, the Bears traded the No. 1 overall pick to the Carolina Panthers, who used the pick to draft Bryce Young.
Williams will start right away with the revamped Bears roster.
Fields struggled as the Bears starter. He went 10-28 in 38 starts.
He has gone 578 of 958 for 6,674 yards. Fields has also thrown 40 touchdown passes and 30 interceptions.
This past season, Fields made 13 starts. He went 5-8 in those contests.
Fields went 227 of 370 for 2,562 yards. He also had 16 touchdown passes and 9 interceptions.
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