Steelers defensive lineman Cameron Heyward discussed the team’s quarterback situation on the latest episode of his “Not Just Football” podcast.
The Steelers face a pivotal decision heading into Week 7. Head coach Mike Tomlin could continue to start quarterback Justin Fields, who has led the team to a 4-2 record this season.
Alternatively, Tomlin could turn to veteran, Super Bowl-winning quarterback Russell Wilson. However, it appears that the choice doesn’t matter much to Heyward.
The veteran Steelers captain expressed his confidence in both quarterbacks during the October 17 episode of his podcast.
“We stand behind both quarterbacks. We believe both can succeed,” Heyward stated. “This isn’t about favoring one over the other. These guys are here to win, and they’ve been doing that.
“I’m not going to try and guess what the decision will be, but as a teammate, I’ll make sure both quarterbacks are supported and given every opportunity to win each game.”
It’s no surprise that Heyward holds this perspective. If Wilson starts in Week 7 against the New York Jets, he will be the fifth starting quarterback for the Steelers since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement. Despite the turnover, Pittsburgh has managed a 23-17 record in that span.
Cameron Heyward’s Steelers Winning With Multiple Quarterbacks
While being six games above .500 might not sound remarkable, the Steelers have faced significant quarterback instability since Roethlisberger retired.
Yet, the team has remained competitive, which is no easy feat with constant changes at quarterback.
In fact, the revolving door at quarterback for the Steelers began in 2019. Since then, Pittsburgh has found success with various signal callers.
Of the six quarterbacks who have started for the Steelers over the last five-plus seasons, only Mitch Trubisky has a losing record.
In Week 7, the Steelers are expected to turn to Wilson to reignite their passing game. With Fields, the team ranks 28th in passing yards per game.
But regardless of how much the passing game improves under Wilson, Heyward and the rest of the Steelers remain focused on one thing: winning.
Russell Wilson Praises Justin Fields
One concern with a potential quarterback switch could be its impact on the locker room. Heyward’s confidence in both quarterbacks should help ease those worries.
Additionally, both quarterbacks have handled the situation professionally in the lead-up to Week 7. Fields gave a mature response, accepting responsibility for potentially losing his starting spot on October 20.
Wilson, in turn, praised Fields during an October 17 media appearance.
“I think Justin has done a fantastic job,” Wilson said via 93.7 The Fan. “He’s an exceptional quarterback.
“I’ve faced him over the years, and he’s a great player and teammate.”
Fields has led the Steelers to a 4-2 start, relying heavily on his running ability. He’s been effective on third downs and has scored five rushing touchdowns this season, the same number as his passing touchdowns.
The Steelers have only scored one offensive touchdown this season without Fields’ involvement.
However, Wilson could provide a boost to the struggling passing game. Last season with the Denver Broncos, Wilson averaged 204.7 passing yards per game—20 more than Fields’ current average. Wilson also led the league with four fourth-quarter comebacks in 2023.
