Will Justin Fields Start In Week 1 For The Steelers? 2024 Fantasy Football Outlook

June 4, 2024

The Steelers have brought in Justin Fields to compete with Russell Wilson and push the veteran. But can Fields beat Wilson for the starting role before Week 1 of the 2024 season? Aidin Ebrahimi looks at the possibility.

When Ben Roethlisberger retired, the Steelers decided to hand the keys to the franchise to Kenny Pickett. Unfortunately for Steelers fans though, Pickett was very disappointing and the Steelers parted ways with him after just two seasons.

Now, they have signed Russell Wilson, but have also brought in Justin Fields to compete with Wilson and push the veteran. However, if Wilson struggles, it'll only be a matter of time until Fields takes the field for the Steelers.

So, when will Fields start for Pittsburgh? Let's dive in and find out.

Will Justin Fields Start In Week 1?

Right now, Russell Wilson is "in pole position" to start for the team in Week 1, according to Steelers HC Mike Tomlin. "Justin will be given an opportunity to compete," Tomlin said. "We'll allow those guys to sort themselves out."

But we all know that plans can change in training camp and the preseason. If Wilson shows up out of shape or struggles to gel with the offense, Tomlin won't hesitate to take him off and put Fields in his place. This offseason, Tomlin has been doing things he has never done before, and it's clear that he's willing to do anything to win another ring.

Russell Wilson has nothing but respect for teammate Justin Fields. 🤝https://t.co/N0FoObu060 pic.twitter.com/33dOeEdRYH

— theScore (@theScore) May 30, 2024

Right now, it's a bit too early to tell who will start in Week 1, but I'd probably go with Wilson due to him currently having the advantage over Fields in Tomlin's eyes. But don't be surprised if Fields shows up earlier than expected.

Justin Fields Fantasy Football Outlook

If Fields manages to beat out Wilson for the QB1 spot in Pittsburgh, he'll likely be a fantasy QB1. In his only full season as a starter without injuries (2022), Fields finished as the overall fantasy QB6. He might not be the best QB on the field, but his unreal rushing ability makes him a weapon in fantasy.

Mike Tomlin on Justin Fields:

“Oh my gosh, he oozes talent and potential. He’s worn the responsibility of being a franchise quarterback, but still he gets the opportunity to come into a community-like situation and learn from a guy who has been doing it for over a decade. Man,… pic.twitter.com/TouDaWC9Sl

— Matthew Luciow (@matthewluciow92) March 25, 2024

He has also claimed that he "doesn't have the mindset of just sitting all year" so we can expect him to be involved in other ways as a rushing threat if Wilson stays as the starter until the end of the year. If that happens, Fields can learn a lot from the former No. 1 fantasy QB and Super Bowl winner. A new and improved Fields in 2025 or 2026 with better passing will be a nightmare for fantasy defenses, so he's still a valuable option in dynasty leagues.

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