Russell Wilson Told to Inflict Sean Payton’s Broncos Treatment on Justin Fields as Shannon Sharpe Backs Steelers’ Super Bowl Hopes

The quarterback clash in the Pittsburgh Steelers camp is no news. Since Russell Wilson and Justin Fields moved from the Denver Broncos and Chicago Bears, respectively, to the Steelers army, all eyes have been on the team roster and how will two powerful and talented quarterbacks settle together in the camp. While coach Tomlin has voiced giving Wilson the “pole position,” Fields is determined not to warm the bench for the entire season.

Reflecting on this cut-throat competition in the team, Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson and Shannon Sharpe took their Nightcap Livestream. They appreciated Fields’ sentiments and upfront attitude when it came to playing football. However, Sharpe had some strong words for the veteran QB, Wilson. Without any hesitation, the former professional directed, “It’s not [Fields’] job to stay on the bench; it’s Russell Wilson’s job to keep him on the bench.”

It was the declaration of how important it is for Russell Wilson to prove that he still has the fire burning in him to win the Super Bowl. An indirect indication that the 35-year-old star will have to execute Sean Payton’s strategy where he benched Wilson in the last season. However, the former Broncos QB will have to ensure this tactic on Fields through his performance and leadership.

Undeniably, the 1x Super Bowl Champion is known for skills and understanding of the game, but it will require results and gameplay to once again stamp Wilson’s dominance on the game. However, Sharpe’s co-host Johnson did not seem much concerned when it came to Russell Wilson’s caliber and the things he is capable of implementing. “Knowing Russell Wilson I know. Knowing the work he has put in and the situation that he is in with a Super Bowl-caliber head coach like Mike Tomlin, I think things are gonna be just fine. Russell Wilson will have a phenomenal season this year and go somewhere else and sign another deal, and Justin Fields will be the future quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers,” said Chad Johnson. 

The responsibility is on Wilson’s shoulders to maintain his starting position and the Steelers to Super Bowl glory, unlike his Broncos era. While the quarterback did put great numbers on board last season, it resulted in disappointment when he got released. However, Wilson hasn’t been the one to look at the negatives. Revealing to reporters he welcomed “adding Fields in a two-quarterback system” because “having two dynamic playmakers and quarterbacks is a good thing.” Thus, he has taken the road of redemption.

This journey won’t be easy though. If Wilson falters, the Steelers have a young gun champing at the bit in Justin Fields. As one analyst cautioned, “If Russell Wilson played poorly enough in 2024 to get benched for Justin Fields…where would Wilson go from there?”

The Justin Fields conundrum: backup role or Steelers’ future franchise QB?

While Wilson may have the “pole position” for now according to Mike Tomlin, Justin Fields ain’t here to be no return man either. The former Bear shut down that noise real quick, laughing off suggestions he could be used on kick returns by saying bluntly “I’m not here to do that…It was kind of funny to me when everybody was making a big deal about it for no reason.”

As the athletic QB declared, “I’m definitely competing. Russ knows that. We’re competing against each other every day…I definitely don’t have the mindset of me sitting all year.” Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson knows what’s at stake, saying, “Russell, not losing that spot. Too much talent to ride on…Good coach, great coach. Great supported cast, Najee Harris, George Pickens, he gonna be fine.”

Fields is gonna pose a challenge for a veteran like Wilson. He has earned respect as a dual-threat, racking up 2,220 yards on the ground with 14 rushing TDs. He was a two-time Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year and First-Team All-Conference selection at Ohio State. For Fields, this is a pivotal season to prove he’s more than just a running QB as he aims for a big payday next year as a free agent. As he told reporters, “I’m nowhere near my ceiling.” Having a mentor like Wilson could be the boost Fields needs to finally reach those lofty heights.

The quarterback room in Pittsburgh is set up to be an iron-sharpening iron environment. Two fierce competitors, one wise veteran eager to rewrite his legacy, one young talent determined to author his own storybook tale. Buckle up, NFL fans, because this redemption arc featuring Wilson and Fields is going to be one hell of a roller coaster ride.