The Pittsburgh Steelers have found themselves embroiled in significant drama as the week unfolds.
After achieving a 4-2 record, it seems Justin Fields may be benched, at least temporarily, as Russell Wilson is reportedly healthy and poised to take over the starting role.
Opinions on this situation are divided. Fields has met the expectations set by the Steelers, yet there are concerns regarding his arm strength and overall performance.
This quarterback saga is just one aspect of the broader issues the Steelers are navigating. Today, we’ll delve into various rumors and reports concerning the Steelers’ offense, including developments regarding quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers.
Steelers Rumors: QB Situation May Be Exaggerated
As the week begins, the Steelers face turmoil regarding their quarterback situation after head coach Mike Tomlin hinted that Russell Wilson would be the Week 7 starter over Justin Fields.
ESPN NFL insider Dan Graziano expressed skepticism about the Steelers moving on from Fields at this juncture. “I’m a little skeptical, considering everything I’ve heard over the past month and a half about how the staff is pleased with Fields’ development throughout the season. He has effectively executed their game plans, minimized turnovers, and helped secure victories. And honestly, what evidence do we have from the past three years to suggest that Wilson would provide a better alternative to Fields in the areas where he may fall short?”
One might wonder why the Steelers would want to part ways with Fields.
Tomlin has long been an admirer of Fields, dating back to his college days at Ohio State. Now that Fields is performing well under his guidance, it raises the question: why would Tomlin consider moving on from him?
Fields has excelled in his role, showcasing his running abilities and maintaining a low turnover rate. Graziano’s doubts about Pittsburgh fully committing to Wilson resonate, and I share those concerns.
Steelers Rumors: Mike Williams as an Ideal WR Trade Target
The Pittsburgh Steelers are in urgent need of wide receiver assistance this season. While they have George Pickens, the contributions from the rest of the receiving corps have been minimal. Pittsburgh has actively sought wide receiver upgrades, with significant rumors linking them to Brandon Aiyuk and Davante Adams.
Unfortunately for the Steelers, Adams has joined the New York Jets, and Aiyuk opted to re-sign with the San Francisco 49ers, leaving Pittsburgh searching for alternatives.
NFL insiders Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler provided insights into the available wide receivers on the trade market.
“The Jets’ acquisition of Adams has placed free agent signee Mike Williams on the trade block, and several teams believe the veteran wideout could be on the move shortly,” Graziano reported. “It wouldn’t be surprising to see Williams don a different uniform in the coming weeks.”
At 30 years old, Williams has recorded 10 receptions for 145 yards this season and is expected to see a reduced role in New York. If he were to join the Steelers, he would likely step into the WR2 position. Standing at 6-foot-4, Williams would add a distinct dynamic that the current Steelers roster lacks.
Steelers Rumors: Najee Harris Misses Practice with Rib Injury Ahead of Week 7
As the Pittsburgh Steelers kick off Week 7, their first injury report has raised some eyebrows.
One unexpected name on the list was running back Najee Harris, who missed practice due to a rib injury that hadn’t been previously reported in Pittsburgh. This news follows his standout performance in Week 6 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
In that game, Harris recorded a season-high 106 rushing yards on 14 carries and scored his first touchdown of the season, achieving an impressive 7.6 yards per carry—his best single-game performance this year.
Through six weeks, Harris has amassed 96 carries for 376 yards and one touchdown, along with 14 receptions for 135 yards.
Alongside Harris, several players missed practice, including TJ Watt, Cam Heyward, Larry Ogunjobi, Isaac Seumalo, Damontae Kazee, Nick Herbig, Zach Frazier, and Cordarrelle Patterson due to various injuries. MyCole Pruitt participated fully, while Alex Highsmith was limited.
Unless Harris misses the entire week of practice, he is expected to play this Sunday. With Patterson also sidelined, the Steelers cannot afford to lose Harris against the Jets, especially considering his explosive performance last week.
