Former QB explains how Steelers should handle Russell Wilson, Justin Fields situation

Pittsburgh Steelers starting quarterback Russell Wilson and backup Justin Fields remain on track to reach free agency when the new league year opens on March 12 amid many rumors regarding their futures. 

During Tuesday's edition of FS1's "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" program, former NFL signal-caller and current analyst Brady Quinn explained why the Steelers should run it back with Wilson or Fields atop the depth chart. 

"I always feel continuity is better than anything else," Quinn said, Steelers Depot's Jeremy Pike shared. "You build from there. And I truly believe this — anyone who watched the Steelers [this past season], they need more help on the outside." 

Multiple individuals within the Steelers seem to agree with all that Quinn said. It's no secret that Pittsburgh tried to acquire proven offensive players throughout 2024, such as San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk and Davante Adams, who are currently part of the New York Jets. More recently, the Steelers have been linked with the 49ers' dual-threat offensive weapon, Deebo Samuel, and Miami Dolphins receiver Tyreek Hill, among others. 

In late January, Steelers owner and president Art Rooney II insisted that his "preference" was to re-sign Wilson or Fields. Rumblings emerged in February, hinting that Fields is Pittsburgh's "plan A" and Wilson is the club's "plan B."

"They need more there to go with, whether it's Justin Fields, Russell Wilson," Quinn added. "I'm a bigger believer in one of those two guys seeing this thing forward as opposed to bringing someone else new in again to try to learn (offensive coordinator) Arthur Smith's offense."

It's worth noting that the Steelers may not "have any path to other alternatives" if they genuinely aren't interested in pursuing the Jets' Aaron Rodgers. While it's unclear if Matthew Stafford will work things out with the Los Angeles Rams before the start of the new league year, he reportedly "wants to remain in Los Angeles and play for (head coach) Sean McVay."   

Wilson and Fields will be eligible to officially speak with other clubs when the legal tampering period of free agency opens on March 10. Thus, the Steelers still have some time to lock one of their quarterbacks down for at least 2025 before they have to start seriously considering a so-called "plan C."