In the realm of NFL preseason, images can convey messages clearer than words. This was evident from the events in Pittsburgh on Saturday night, leading to a simple conclusion: Justin Fields deserves to be the starting quarterback for the Steelers.

It’s important to note what’s typically true about football in August. Teams are not fully implementing their playbooks, and starters usually see limited action – at best. Furthermore, players expected to be cut often take the field alongside established NFL talent during these games.

That being acknowledged.

If you rely on what you see, Fields demonstrated a far superior performance compared to the aging Russell Wilson, who struggled through the Steelers’ initial five possessions. During that time, the Steelers were forced to punt four times, gained only 49 yards, and did not score. Wilson had a mere 47 passing yards and was sacked three times, while Fields managed to throw for 92 yards, run for 42, and put the team on the board with just three points.

“I think he made progress in certain areas,” noted Steelers coach Mike Tomlin regarding Fields. “He did well to use his legs, whether spontaneously or intentionally, to keep plays alive.”

However, it’s essential to look beyond mere statistics. Despite the preseason context, both Wilson—who previously started in two Super Bowls with the Seattle Seahawks—and Fields, a former first-round draft pick released by the Chicago Bears after a disappointing tenure—are still adjusting to a new playbook and new teammates.

That said, Wilson’s performance seemed to echo his struggles with the Denver Broncos over the last two seasons—hesitant, predominantly opting for short passes, and lacking the ability to extend plays that had defined his success in the past. He reassured that an early calf injury was not an issue during the game. In contrast, Fields repeatedly showcased his impressive mobility by taking off with the ball and creating better spacing for an offense expected to focus more on the run with new coordinator Arthur Smith.

“His dual-threat ability has the potential to elevate this offense as he grows more comfortable within it,” commented ESPN analyst Louis Riddick, advocating for Fields as the starting quarterback.

This isn’t to imply that Fields played perfectly. He missed a wide-open T.J. Luther downfield for what might have been a game-winning touchdown late in the fourth quarter. The Steelers also failed to convert on fourth down during his last three drives, although his throw to tight end Connor Heyward deep in Buffalo territory was catchable and could have changed the outcome.

“During our drives, we managed to reach the red zone a few times,” Fields reflected. “But I believe next week we need to turn those opportunities into points.”

Despite earlier issues with center exchanges, Fields showed noticeable improvement. However…

“We’re still not achieving our goals,” Tomlin commented about the team’s overall performance.

He elaborated on Wilson’s struggles, expressing concern about the level of protection afforded to both quarterbacks.

“During the opening three series of the game, we were forced to three-and-out,” Tomlin said. “That doesn’t allow for rhythm or to play the way you desire, either individually or collectively.”

Tomlin and GM Omar Khan may want to focus on the overall team performance.

Tomlin has maintained a culture of winning, never finishing with a losing record or ending up in last place during his 17-year tenure. Yet, it’s been nearly 16 years since the Steelers last won a Super Bowl, averaging 9.5 wins over the past six seasons without a playoff victory since 2016.

Looking ahead, Pittsburgh appears poised to linger on the playoff edge in 2024. It’s hard to find anyone beyond the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex who deems the current roster as championship-ready. Wilson, nearing 36, might manage to keep the team around a nine- or 10-win season. However, what future does that hold, especially with Wilson set to become a free agent next season?

Fields, while inconsistent, definitely brings talent. His athleticism is a significant asset, but he must become more definitive in his passing. Moreover, his skills seem to align well with Smith’s offensive scheme, and if the defense can perform at a high level, there’s potential for a successful season. At just 25, if Fields can develop under Tomlin and Smith’s guidance, a nine- or 10-win season is still achievable. (By comparison, Chicago posted a 7-10 record last year with fewer offensive tools.) Should this unfold, Khan might easily offer Fields a lucrative extension similar to Baker Mayfield’s recent deal with Tampa Bay following his last season. Conversely, if the situation goes awry and the Steelers crash to a 5-12 record, they would be in a better position to secure a new quarterback in the 2025 draft.

Tomlin wasn’t ready to reveal any decisions following the game.

“We’ll meet tomorrow to discuss everything thoroughly,” he stated. “This is just a quick, initial evaluation of some aspects.”

Perhaps a night’s rest will bring new insights for Tomlin. But after announcing during the offseason that Wilson was in the “front-runner” position to be the Steelers’ starting quarterback for 2024, it seems likely that Fields will be the one who ultimately succeeds.