Mike Tomlin makes feelings known on future of Russell Wilson-Justin Fields QB room as Steelers hit the crossroads
On Saturday, the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2024 campaign ended following a 28-14 defeat against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in the wildcard round. This was the Steelers' fifth loss on the trot, a disappointing end to a promising season.
Coming into the game, Pittsburgh's offense was a cause for concern, especially quarterback Russell Wilson, who had been criticized for his poor form over the past month. However, the veteran had a good outing. He completed 20 of his 29 pass attempts for 270 yards and two touchdowns.
But the Steelers defense was powerless in stopping Ravens' running back Derrick Henry, who finished the game with 186 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Despite Wilson's gritty display, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin was hesitant in claiming that the team would retain him for the 2025 season. In the postgame press conference, he was asked about the future of the veteran QB, as well as backup Justin Fields. He replied:
"I'm not ready to take a big-picture approach. I'm really assessing what happened today, man. I'm certainly appreciative of their efforts tonight, but I can say that, largely for the entire season, that three quality people [Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, Kyle Allen] at the quarterback position man and really appreciate what they poured into this."
Steelers QB situation: Mike Tomlin and Co. have plenty to ponder
The Steelers are in a bizarre situation heading into the offseason. All three quarterbacks on the roster — Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and Kyle Allen — played the 2024 season on expiring deals, meaning Pittsburgh doesn't have any signal-callers under contract.
Mike Tomlin's apprehension in providing an insight into the Steelers' plan for their quarterback conundrum suggests the franchise is open to completely revamping its quarterback room in the offseason.
However, he also didn't close the door on retaining Wilson, Fields, and Allen, indicating they aren't sure whether they should use the draft to land a quarterback or strengthen other areas, especially the offense, and run it back.
The Steelers have fielded five different starting quarterbacks in the last three years and none has been able to make the position their own. It remains to be seen how Pittsburgh solves the issue.