One of the biggest debates this off-season has been settled after much speculation surrounding the Chicago QB situation. The Pittsburgh Steelers have acquired quarterback Justin Fields from the Chicago Bears in exchange for a conditional 2025 pick, worth up to a 4th rounder based on playing time. With a frenzy of moves this week, including the addition of Russell Wilson and departure of all three of their starting 2023 QBs, Pittsburgh GM, Omar Khan, has quickly reconstructed the Steelers roster and positioned the team compete in 2024 and beyond. It is all but a guarantee that the Bears will draft USC QB, Caleb Williams, with the first overall pick in the NFL Draft.

Fields, who was drafted by the Bears in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, has shown flashes of brilliance in his tenure with the Bears. His dynamic playmaking ability, combined with a strong arm and agility as a Buckeye, initially drew much excitement in Chicago. However, he has more recently struggled with consistency leaving his future uncertain with the Bears. This was the perfect opportunity for the Steelers, who have been in search of a franchise quarterback since the retirement of long-time signal-caller Ben Roethlisberger following the 2021 season.

This trade marks a significant shift in the Steelers’ offensive strategy and signals a new era for the team. Last season, Pittsburgh struggled to move the ball, largely credited to OC Matt Canada, who was fired mid-season. The QB room has completely changed within weeks. Out with the one-dimensional Kenny Pickett (Eagles), Mason Rudolph (Titans) and Mitch Trubisky (Bills), and in with the new duo of Russ and Fields. Wilson will be presumed starter and mentor for Fields at first, but we can’t help but think that Fields has the potential to eventually flourish and lead a successful offense under Mike Tomlin.

The biggest winners here will be George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, and the rest of Pittsburgh’s pass catchers. Both Wilson and Fields love to air it out, which should lift the numerous downfield threats. There could be questions with the running game, which performed well in 2023, but both of their new scrambling QBs may affect rush opportunities. This uncertainty could affect the dynasty values of both Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, making both worth rostering at a possible discount. All eyes will be on the Steel City to see how this bold move unfolds in the upcoming season.