Fields' Accuracy Impressing at Steelers Camp, Says Insider

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a decision to make on their hands. Both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields were brought in with something to prove and given the opportunity to compete for a starting job.

Wilson entered camp as the easy favorite, boasting the track record and playoff experience Fields’ Chicago Bears tenure couldn’t match. He’s the safer pick for a playoff-ready roster.

But after Wilson suffered a calf injury before the start of camp, Fields has gotten far more starting reps than initially anticipated.

He’s made the most of the opportunity.

Fields hasn’t won the job before his first preseason snap of the summer, but he’s certainly closed the gap between him and Wilson, at least enough to make this a real competition. Part of that ascension can be tied to his physical tools and the most impressive throws he has made this summer. Brian Batko elaborated on Fields’ training camp on “ Bleav in Steelers .”

“He looks really good,” Batko said. “You see the talent jumping out at you with some of the throws he’s able to make, some of that burst that he shows when he gets out of the pocket. You can see why he’s got so many tools, so many physical traits that make him a tantalizing player still even after three up-and-down years in Chicago.”

Some inherent flaws in Fields’ game might be tough for Pittsburgh to trust. He took far too many sacks in Chicago and doesn’t do a great job of mitigating pressure despite his athleticism. He also struggles with down-to-down consistency in the quick game and isn’t particularly strong over the middle of the field, where offensive coordinator Arthur Smith likes to operate.

However, Fields’ profile lends itself to upside, and if the Steelers feel he’s taken steps to mitigate those weaknesses, they may be more willing to give him the reins.

“Justin Fields’ accuracy has been better than anticipated,” Batko said. “His touch has been better than I anticipated.”

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If Fields’ strides are substantial, it’s probably a matter of when and not if he overtakes Wilson for the starting spot. Given the gauntlet of a schedule Pittsburgh is set to face, there should be plenty of opportunities for a switch to be discussed.