In theory for the Steelers, I guess having someone who is explosive running the ball back to return kicks with the new rules isn’t the worst idea. It would be crazy if it were done, as this is at a non-skill position with the quarterback, arguably the most valuable position in the NFL.
Justin Fields’ three years with the Chicago Bears didn’t go to plan, as they drafted their franchise quarterback number one overall to replace him in USC’s Caleb Williams.
But what stood out was the insane rushing ceiling the 25-year-old brought on the field when he wasn’t injured.
Fields was a dynamic rusher the past few seasons but not when he was at Ohio State. His 2022 season was the highlight for him on the ground, running for over 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns.
The former first-round pick from 2021 is considered a top rushing quarterback in the league with his legs alone.
While Pittsburgh traded away a late-day three-pick on him, they may envision him getting on the field in another way that hasn’t been done before.
Steelers: Interesting Plan for Justin Fields as Returner
#Steelers RB Jaylen Warren says their special teams coordinator discussed the possibility of having Justin Fields return kicks under the new kickoff rules.
(via @NotJustFootball)pic.twitter.com/N4WGMwETxV
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) May 2, 2024
Pittsburgh’s Jaylen Warren on the Not Just Football podcast hosted by Steelers veteran Cameron Heyward, the running back mentioned that the special teams coordinator had an interesting idea for their return game.
Throw in Justin Fields.
Due to the new kickoff rules implemented for this coming season, players on both sides besides the kicker can’t move until the returner touches the ball.
This borrows from the XFL kickoff rules, as this rule change makes kickoffs and return men valuable again for the game. This will be a one-year test run, so there is hope it can stay if there is a difference in reduced injury risk and ideally, it would give teams more chances to score.
Steelers special teams coordinator Danny Smith has been in Pittsburgh since 2013 at age 70, and if the quarterback is used as a returner, would innovate the NFL in his 11th season with the team.
Steelers: Improved Special Teams with Free Agents
https://gty.im/1815130239
The Pittsburgh Steelers signed Atlanta Falcons All-Pro kick return man/ running back Cordarrelle Patterson in the offseason as a free agent. They also added potential returner Quez Watkins, who was a receiver on the Philadelphia Eagles, and still have wide receiver Calvin Austin III on the roster to potentially return on special teams.
The ex-receiver converted running back Patterson is a seven-time All-Pro and four-time Pro Bowler and led 2019 and 2020 in kickoff return yards.
I wouldn’t see how he isn’t used almost exclusively on special teams, with Najee Harris and Warren splitting reps as starting running backs. Still, Patterson is a versatile weapon and provides valuable depth at receiver or running back.
At wide receiver, the Steelers drafted Roman Wilson in the third round to replace Diontae Johnson, who they traded to the Carolina Panthers. Pittsburgh is starting George Pickens as their top receiver while bringing in veterans like Van Jefferson in free agency, who is slated to start at least for the start of the season.
The idea that Justin Fields, who was traded from the Chicago Bears, would be a return man even with the new kickoff rules is crazy but unique.
Steelers: Will Russell Wilson be the Starter over Fields?
https://gty.im/1701282739
The Steelers have stated the 35-year-old veteran will get the first shot to start for Pittsburgh. Russell Wilson signed a one-year deal before free agency began since he was cut from the shackles of Sean Payton and the Broncos.
Wilson spent his first ten seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, winning a Super Bowl with them as a nine-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro. Ever since he landed in Denver via a massive trade, it was a disaster for both parties and it only lasted just shy of two seasons before both sides cut ties.
However, on a very contract, this wasn’t a bad gamble, but I think Fields will take over after the midway point of the season. But I think Wilson has a few decent games left in him, as the Arthur Smith offense will focus on the run game and setting up the deep play-action pass.
The offensive coordinator changed this offseason and with the trade of Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh is going with an all-or-nothing type approach at the quarterback position while being frugal about it.
The Steelers will likely not pick up his fifth-year option, making both quarterbacks pending free agents after the 2024 season.
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