“In the most recent episode of the “Not Just Football with Cameron Heyward” podcast, Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren stirred up quite the conversation by jokingly suggesting that Justin Fields could be the team’s new kickoff returner.
Fans and analysts alike were caught off guard by the idea, considering Fields’ primary role as a quarterback. However, Steelers defensive lineman and podcast host Cameron Heyward quickly provided some clarity.
“When he said that, he threw all of us for a loop, but I took it more as a joke,” Heyward clarified, as quoted by Ross McCorkle from Steelers Depot. “We were at the draft party, and I thought he was just trying to get a rise out of everybody.”
Cameron Heyward Cautions Against Rushing Decisions
Cameron Heyward pointed out that the team already signed versatile return specialist Cordarrelle Patterson, who is expected to be the go-to guy for special teams duties.
“Let’s slow the roll,” Heyward advised. “It was good fun. It was good content. But I don’t think we’re gonna be doing that anytime soon.”
Patterson’s track record as a returner brings stability to the special teams, which lessens any urgency to utilize Fields in such a role.
Happy birthday, Cameron Heyward!
His career stats:
• 13 seasons (194 games)
• 647 tackles
• 179 QB hits, 80.5 sacks
• 121 tackles for loss
• 47 PD, 2 INTs
• 8 FF, 7 FR
• 6x pro bowler, 4x all-pro
• 2023 WPMOY#Steelers pic.twitter.com/hJyG6ccOzn— NFL Stats (@NFL_Stats) May 6, 2024
Justin Fields’ Future with the Pittsburgh Steelers
Justin Fields joined the Pittsburgh Steelers from the Chicago Bears for a conditional 2025 sixth-round pick in March. Despite this acquisition, Pittsburgh did not exercise the fifth-year option on his rookie contract. As things stand, he could potentially be off the roster, along with veteran Russell Wilson, after the 2024 season.
However, should Wilson falter or encounter setbacks before Week 1, Fields could easily be the next man up. Despite speculation about his special teams involvement, the 25-year-old quarterback is more likely to make his presence felt during preseason games as a backup QB rather than a returner.
Special Teams Coordinator Danny Smith’s Perspective
Special teams coordinator Danny Smith appears unfazed by the chatter surrounding Fields.
“Danny’s got my number,” Cameron Heyward noted on the podcast. “But Danny ain’t wasting that call, ’cause you know I’m gonna say, ‘Ain’t nobody putting his a— back there.’ Danny’s got all that bubble gum and he is not worried about Justin Fields being on the field.”
Danny Smith is more focused on Patterson and maintaining a solid special teams strategy for the season.
Cameron Heyward, Justin Fields to Focus Quarterback
While Warren’s comments ignited a bit of controversy, Cameron Heyward firmly emphasizes that Fields won’t be fielding any kickoffs for the Steelers. The versatile Patterson holds that role firmly, leaving Fields to focus on his quarterback responsibilities. The upcoming preseason will be pivotal in determining how the Steelers shape their offensive and special teams strategies, but it’s clear that Heyward’s podcast was all in good fun.
