Steelers' latest roster decision points to a world where Justin Fields is stuck on the bench all year

An annual tradition that's as old as the kickoff itself, the Pittsburgh Steelers officially named their 2024 captains on Monday.

And while it might not mean much on the surface, it could go a long way in Pittsburgh's QB play this season:

Russell Wilson Named Captain

“I'm just grateful to be a part of this team and whatever I can do to help lead and help us get to where we want to go, and that's to win another Lombardi, To be around so many talented men, to be around such great leadership and great players, it's a tremendous honor.”

Look, it may seem obvious that the starting QB is named a captain, and especially one with the tenure and resume of Wilson. In actuality, however, Pittsburgh had a very similar situation in 2022 with their "QB competition" back then as well.

Mitchell Trubisky nor Kenny Pickett was named a captain, with RB Najee Harris holding the honor until it was stripped from him and given to Kenny Pickett last season.

No team plans on naming a captain and seeing him ride the bench. That's especially true of Russell Wilson, who has the grace of Mike Tomlin, and the rest of his teammates:

“Russ' resume is a unique one in terms of lift and success, and that tends to play a factor in the decision-making, but not from a decision-makers perspective, Coach Tomlin said on Monday.  It's just the fruit of his labor. He's seen a lot and done a lot, and I think it was reflected in the way he played and conducted himself.”

Wilson has always been the belle of the ball for Mike Tomlin. Intrigued by Fields, it's the veteran leadership, resume, and above all else, pedigree that took Wilson from pole position to starter .

“He's a strong leader, and he brings veteran experience, said fellow team captain Miles Killebrew. "He's been doing it at a high level for a long time and I think with that experience he kind of calms nerves, and he can lead guys through various situations because he's seen it. He's seen a lot, so just a calming presence, I would say.”

The Steelers need a calming presence at QB, but more importantly, they need a competent one, we'll see if Russ can provide the latter.

Related: Steelers finalize their roster by taking advantage of one of the NFL's smartest rules