In a significant shakeup during the NFL offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers sent their former first-round quarterback Justin Fields to the Chicago Bears. After enduring a turbulent three-year run in Chicago, Fields now finds himself in a backup role behind veteran signal-caller Russell Wilson. However, recent rumors of Fields potentially being tested as a kick returner have stirred concerns among NFL analysts.
Greg Jennings Sounds the Alarm
During his appearance on The Carton Show, ex-NFL receiver Greg Jennings didn’t mince words when addressing this unconventional use of Fields, emphasizing that the QB must focus on honing his primary craft. “If you are Justin Fields, you can’t fall into this.
If you are going to be a quarterback, you better remain a quarterback…Now you’ve devalued yourself,” Jennings stressed. His warning resonated through the league, as Fields’ trajectory hinges on his ability to capitalize on his position.
Justin Fields if we make him return kicks pic.twitter.com/KEg4SAo2s6
— Rico 🧃 (@SteelersRuinMe) May 2, 2024
Learning from a Master: Russell Wilson
Fields’ collegiate legacy includes leading Ohio State to the College Football Playoff, showcasing his undeniable potential as a quarterback. This season, he gets to learn from Russell Wilson, a future Hall of Famer with a Super Bowl ring and a wealth of experience.
The mentorship could be pivotal for Fields, allowing him to sharpen essential skills like passing accuracy, decision-making, and pocket awareness. With Wilson’s guidance, he could become a formidable NFL starter in the future, whether for the Steelers or elsewhere.
Risk of Versatility Misuse
Using Fields in running plays makes sense, given his remarkable ability on the ground (1,143 rushing yards in 2021). However, deploying him as a kick returner or a Taysom Hill-style gadget player might do more harm than good.
Kick returns and special teams roles impose intense physical demands, raising the risk of injury that could jeopardize Fields’ long-term health and potential. Moreover, training for unconventional roles might distract him from developing his core quarterbacking skills.
Justin Fields’ Path Forward
Given the premium placed on quarterbacks in the NFL, it’s crucial for Fields to prioritize his growth at his natural position.
By staying laser-focused on mastering his quarterback craft, he can maximize his potential and secure a sustainable, lucrative career in the league. The Steelers coaching staff must find the right balance between leveraging his versatility and grooming him as a future franchise quarterback.
In this new chapter of his career, Fields should heed Greg Jennings’ words and avoid straying from his goal. With the right mindset and relentless effort, he can prove his critics wrong and evolve into one of the NFL’s premier quarterbacks.
Source: NFL Analysis
