Former Steelers Pro Bowler discusses Russell Wilson, Justin Fields idea

Former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker and two-time Pro Bowl selection Ryan Shazier sounds at least somewhat open to the idea of the club using special packages for quarterback Justin Fields during games assuming veteran Russell Wilson begins the season as Pittsburgh's starter.

"In those situations when you have a different quarterback coming into the game that you're really not planning for or you're not really scheduled for, it does change up your dynamic," Shazier explained during a recent appearance on FS1's "The Carton Show," as shared by Joe Clark of Steelers Depot. "But things will be different based on the down and distance."

Even before Wilson reportedly emerged as the favorite to start over Fields, the 35-year-old publicly endorsed offensive coordinator Arthur Smith creating unique packages that could allow the 25-year-old to punish defenses with his elite athleticism and arm skills.

According to StatMuse, only reigning NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson has accumulated more rushing yards (2,352) among quarterbacks than Fields (2,220) since the Chicago Bears made Fields a first-round draft pick in the spring of 2021.

"If it's three to five [yards], it's different than five to eight [yards]," Shazier continued. "Five to eight, you're thinking more of a pass situation. So if [Fields] is coming in the game, you're scared of his legs still, but you understand that he's a proven quarterback. But when it comes to third and five and less, then you're thinking of everything."

It's worth noting that Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin hasn't yet slammed the door shut on Fields possibly winning the starting job over Wilson at some point before Pittsburgh ends its preseason with a game at the Detroit Lions on Aug. 24.

As of Wednesday afternoon, DraftKings Sportsbook listed Wilson as the overwhelming betting favorite at -750 odds to start the Week 1 matchup at the Atlanta Falcons. That outlet had Fields at +450 odds.

It remains to be seen if Tomlin will let Smith get creative regarding Fields' role in the offense as a backup signal-caller once the games begin to matter.

After all, Tomlin may need Fields for more than a handful of snaps if Wilson either goes down with an injury or struggles through the first month of the season.