Justin Fields was traded to the Steelers for a conditional 2025 sixth-round pick earlier this month. Fields' return was compromised by general manager Ryan Poles so the fourth-year quarterback could play at his desired destination fast. ESPN reports that the Bears received a greater offer than the Steelers.
"Bears general manager Ryan Poles ultimately followed through on a combine pledge to 'do right by Justin,' dealing Fields to Pittsburgh over at least one better offer from a team with an established quarterback starter, a Bears team source said," Brooke Pryor wrote on Friday.
What team gave Fields a superior trade package? Perhaps the Eagles before acquiring Kenny Pickett? Fields had four choice destinations when the Bears told him they would sell him, including the Steelers, the report said.
The Steelers were one of four teams on Fields' radar prior to the start of free agency, along with the Vikings, Raiders and Falcons, a source familiar with Fields' thinking said," he stated. The article said Fields "thought highly of Tomlin," who hasn't led the Steelers to a losing season in 17 seasons. He will shadow Russell Wilson but learn and grow.
The Vikings lost Kirk Cousins to free agency, opening up their starting quarterback slot. His not being traded there makes sense since the Bears would face Fields twice a year. Former Fields offensive coordinator Luke Getsy is now Raiders offensive coordinator. Despite signing Gardner Minshew this offseason, they're still looking for a quarterback. Since Getsy and the Raiders struggled last season, some thought his presence would eliminate them.
Since Fields is from Georgia, the Falcons were most interested in him this offseason. League insiders told NBC Sports Josh Schrock of Chicago reported that the Falcons contacted the Bears about Fields at the NFL Combine. They convinced Cousins to move from Minnesota to Atlanta.
Pickett's demand to join the Eagles gave Fields a chance to endorse Wilson. The Bears had "at least one better offer from a team with an established quarterback starter," but they compromised to send Fields to his chosen destination, the report said.
Poles' courteous move would likely replace Fields with USC's Caleb Williams as the 2024 NFL Draft's top pick. Poles could've maximized Fields' trade worth by waiting until training camp. But he took the high road, putting the fourth-year quarterback in the best position.
Fields' story continues. Though on a one-year contract, he will likely backup Wilson this season. Fields may be re-signed if the Steelers decide on his fifth-year option by May 2. Some expect Fields to exceed Wilson and start immediately. Fields provides insurance for the Steelers if they dislike Wilson as their starting quarterback.
Fields may not take over immediately, but the Steelers believe he can. " Rest assured Justin will be given an opportunity to compete," Tomlin said at Orlando owner's meetings. "And we'll allow those guys to sort themselves out."
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