Quarterback Justin Fields chose not to address reporters during the Pittsburgh Steelers’ clean-out day earlier this week. However, he left Steelers fans with 11 thoughtful words as they head into what promises to be a busy 2025 offseason.
“A year full of lessons & blessings. Thankful for it all. ” Fields shared on Instagram on January 15, accompanied by a series of memorable photos from his season as a Steeler.
It’s the kind of message fans have come to expect from the 25-year-old—a player known for being both humble and reserved.
Even the Steelers’ official Instagram account chimed in, responding to Fields’ post with two handshake emojis: “欄欄.”
The next few months are set to be pivotal for Fields. With free agency on the horizon, the former first-round pick is set to test the open market for the first time—assuming Pittsburgh doesn’t lock him down with an extension beforehand.
Fields has expressed a desire to return to the Steelers but has also made it clear that he wants more of a starting opportunity in 2025. While rumors have circulated, head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed in his end-of-season press conference that the team still considers Fields a viable starting candidate.
Adding complexity to the situation, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is interviewing for head coaching positions. Fields has voiced his preference for continuity, saying he’d like to stick with the same playbook next season. This has led some to speculate that if Smith moves on, Fields might follow.
All this comes in the immediate aftermath of the Steelers’ Wild Card Round loss to the Baltimore Ravens, just five days ago.
Steelers Insider Expects Justin Fields to Re-Sign at Reasonable Price
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette insider Gerry Dulac addressed Fields’ contract situation during a January 15 fan chat.
“If Justin Fields does get signed, what do you think the contract would look like?” one fan asked.
Dulac’s response was brief yet optimistic:
“At this point, I believe Justin Fields will be re-signed. But I don’t think it will be anything crazy.”
For context, low-end starting quarterbacks earn between $25 million (Geno Smith) and $37.5 million (Aaron Rodgers, Derek Carr) annually. High-end backups competing for starting roles earn between $10 million (Sam Darnold) and $12.5 million (Gardner Minshew).
Fields’ market value will ultimately depend on how many teams see him as a starter. The more suitors, the higher the price—unless the Steelers secure a deal before free agency begins.
Dulac’s Thoughts on Steelers’ Alternative QB Options
As of now, re-signing Justin Fields or Russell Wilson remains the most probable path for the Steelers in 2025—especially if Arthur Smith returns as offensive coordinator.
There’s also a possibility the Steelers re-sign one of the two quarterbacks and pair them with a draft prospect. A mobile quarterback like Alabama’s Jalen Milroe could complement Fields’ style well.
Dulac didn’t delve into draft strategies but did offer quick takes on potential veteran options:
“Aaron Rodgers isn’t coming [to Pittsburgh].”
“Not Kirk Cousins.”
“Sam Darnold won’t have Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison.”
Given these remarks, Dulac’s endorsement of Fields as a solid option for Pittsburgh seems clear.
