Analyst, insider address Steelers' reported Justin Fields, Russell Wilson preference

Rumors continue to suggest that individuals within the Pittsburgh Steelers such as offensive coordinator Arthur Smith view re-signing backup quarterback Justin Fields as a "plan A" and bringing current starter Russell Wilson back as a "plan B." 

On Wednesday, ESPN NFL analyst Louis Riddick and Steelers/NFL insider Aditi Kinkhabwala of CBS Sports expanded on those takes. 

"I know how he feels about Justin Fields," Riddick said about Smith during an appearance on the ESPN "Get Up" program, as shared by Jake Brockhoff of Steelers Depot. "I believe they would like to work with him and see if they can take his game to the next level, as far as being a pocket passer, and continue to develop that. Justin is still evolving his game."

ESPN Steelers reporter Brooke Pryor previously said that Fields played "risk-averse football" as he guided the club to a 4-2 record this past season when Wilson was sidelined with a lingering calf injury. Head coach Mike Tomlin turned to a healthy Wilson in Week 7, but Wilson's working relationship with Smith reportedly deteriorated during what became a five-game losing streak that closed Pittsburgh's campaign.

Both Fields and Wilson are set to become free agents when the new league year opens on March 12, and there's no sign either is close to putting pen to paper on a deal with the Steelers. 

Per Alex Kozora of Steelers Depot, Kinkhabwala said during a Wednesday appearance on Pittsburgh sports radio station 93.7 The Fan that she feels "very, very strongly that the sentiment from people inside the (Steelers') building whose responsibility is to lead this team, that they feel Justin Fields really truly has a chance to be a high-level quarterback" for the club. 

"And they would like to see him back," Kinkhabwala added. 

Some national media personalities have tried to link Pittsburgh with current New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but multiple individuals who cover the Steelers have made it known it's unlikely the club will pursue Rodgers this offseason. 

It appears Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams won't be an option for the Steelers anytime soon. Per Joe Clark of Steelers Depot, NFL insider Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported on Wednesday that she has a "hard time believing" Pittsburgh will try to sign Sam Darnold assuming the Minnesota Vikings let Darnold reach free agency. 

In the end, Smith may simply believe that "continuity is better than anything else" and that running it back with Fields is what's best for the 2025 Steelers.