PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Steelers may have found something in Justin Fields, but with no commitment to the quarterback, could they consider adding another name through a trade?
Right now, Fields is the Steelers’ starter, but it’s unknown if that will change when Russell Wilson returns from his calf injury. Head coach Mike Tomlin is refusing to commit to a starter once both players are healthy, which raises the question of whether they see Fields as a long-term option.
That’s the positive thing about the 25-year-old: He’s got first-round talent and plenty of time in the NFL ahead of him. So maybe the Steelers are thinking about developing him into their long-term starter. But nothing is certain with a one-year deal, and Tomlin has everyone guessing what’s to come.
Maybe another name caught your interest.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, several teams are interested in signing Bryce Young, the former Carolina Panthers first-round pick who was recently benched in favor of Andy Dalton.
“The Panthers have been contacted by certain teams, according to league sources, while other teams within their own organizations have considered trading Young,” Schefter writes.
Could one of those teams be the Steelers? Even if they aren’t one of the teams that called, they could be considering the decision. Young has a ton of potential, a four-year rookie contract, and clear talent as a first-round pick.
“Although the Panthers have stated they have no plans to trade Young at this time, league sources believe it’s only a matter of time before Carolina makes a deal with the second-year quarterback – most likely sometime in the offseason,” Schefter reports.
As for compensation for the trade, the Steelers would likely have to give up a mid-round draft pick. A second or third-round pick could be the answer, as the Panthers have put themselves in a difficult position by already having to bench Young.
The Steelers could target another young player who may be a better price than the two they currently have. They will continue to keep an eye on Fields and hope he develops into their next franchise passer, but with no longer term on his current contract, they may consider a different route with Young.
Don’t forget to bookmark Steelers On SI for all the daily Pittsburgh Steelers news, interviews, analysis and more!
