Russell Wilson's calf issue has given Justin Fields a greater opportunity to participate in Steelers camp than previously expected, which means new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has had plenty of chances to test out Fields' skill set.
So far, the reviews have fit Fields' scouting report. He's talented and dynamic, and just might find his way into Pittsburgh's offense in a relatively unique role.
“He’s a dangerous football player with the ball in his hands,” Smith said late last week, via the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “It allows you to get creative. Maybe you change up a little bit of a defensive game plan for him. Certainly he adds a different element.”
Because of his rare running ability, Fields' role has been ambiguous, yet tantalizing since he arrived via trade with the Chicago Bears. The question of how Pittsburgh will work him in -- and thus, properly evaluate his long-term viability -- has existed since the deal, yet because of Wilson's injury, the Steelers haven't had to force Fields into action to get a good look at him.
With Wilson out, Smith has challenged Fields to push the ball down the field and operate the offense as much more than a gadget player. If anything, the Steelers are gaining a proper understanding of Fields' abilities now, instead of being left wondering what they might have in their backup.
“You’re changing language on guys -- especially a young player, he’s been in a couple systems now,” Smith said. “So we’re working through all that. But I’ve seen him, he’s really operating the offense.
“There’s a lot of things we can play to his strengths, and that’s exciting. Sometimes were asking him to be aggressive, even in 7-on-7. You have to try to in practice. Nobody wants to see negative plays or if he just checks down. We got to see what he can really do and what he can see in the pocket and all that stuff. Him having more reps is accelerating that process.”
Fields' reps likely won't increase once the season arrives. It's still Wilson's job. But the silver lining of Wilson's ailment is that the Steelers will be better prepared to utilize Fields, even if it's only in special packages.
And should things go haywire under center, they'll have more information available to help them make a potentially decision, if necessary.