Why analyst thinks Steelers see Justin Fields as long-term QB option

Former NFL player/executive and current ESPN analyst Louis Riddick is convinced that Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and head coach Mike Tomlin view Justin Fields as a long-term option at quarterback.

"Talking to Arthur Smith and knowing him like I do," Riddick explained during Wednesday's episode of ESPN's "Get Up," per Joe Clark of Steelers Depot. "Being around Mike Tomlin and knowing how he really does covet guys with this kind of diverse skill set, I just don't see [Fields] being a one-and-done player. I just don't see it simply because I don't think they brought him in there with that being the intention."

The Steelers acquired Fields from the Chicago Bears for a conditional 2025 sixth-round draft pick shortly after Pittsburgh signed veteran Russell Wilson to a team-friendly contract. While some have suggested the Steelers have some buyer's remorse regarding Wilson's deal considering how little it cost the team to get Fields, Wilson seemingly is on track to start Pittsburgh's regular-season opener at the Atlanta Falcons on Sept. 8.

"He's much better than just a one-and-done journeyman quarterback at this point in his career," Riddick added about Fields. "...I think the connection between him and Arthur Smith, and again, going back to how I started this, having talked to Arthur, knowing Arthur as long as I do, he loves this kid's skill set. Loves it."

Smith reportedly "100 percent" plans to utilize special packages for Fields this season even if Wilson manages to hold onto the QB1 gig. Riddick insisted on Wednesday that individuals within the Steelers such as Smith and Tomlin hope Fields eventually emerges as Pittsburgh's starter "for the foreseeable future," but it's worth noting that the 25-year-old isn't signed beyond the upcoming campaign.

Wilson turns 36 years old this fall and could earn a second contract from the Steelers if he guides the club to the playoffs. As much as Smith may love Fields' "skill set," every indication is that Tomlin wants Wilson to turn the clock back and reclaim the form that made him a nine-time Pro Bowl selection with the Seattle Seahawks.