Top Justin Fields Trade Partner Seemingly Drops Out

With the Chicago Bears seemingly locked in to take USC quarterback Caleb Williams with the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Bears will likely move on from starting quarterback Justin Fields.

It was reported earlier this week that the Las Vegas Raiders, Atlanta Falcons, and the Pittsburgh Steelers were interested in Fields. However, the Steelers might be okay with their current quarterback situation.

Justin Fields Rumors: Steelers to Stick With Kenny Pickett

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported Sunday that the Steelers have “started the process of rebuilding third-year passer Kenny Pickett.” Fowler adds that new Pittsburgh offensive coordinator Arthur Smith had “a productive meeting with Kenny Pickett.”

For the last few weeks, it appeared as if Fields would be the perfect option in the Steel City, as Pickett has struggled in his first two seasons in the NFL. Pickett has completed 62.6% of his passes for 4,474 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions.

The former Pitt Panther standout’s passing numbers are pedestrian, and he doesn’t have the same rushing ability as Fields. However, Pittsburgh might believe Arthur Smith can get the young quarterback back on track for this upcoming season.

Smith didn’t do a great job developing Desmond Ridder in Atlanta over the last two years, so the jury is still out on him. As for Fields, it will be interesting to see where he ultimately lands as there aren’t a ton of openings. Kirk Cousins and Baker Mayfield are the hottest FA names and this year’s QB class is strong.

Nonetheless, we shouldn’t expect the Bears to get rid of Fields for pennies on the dollar as they want some value back in return for the former first-round pick.

More Bears rumors and analysis: