Steelers offseason checklist: Justin Fields or Russell Wilson?

The most impactful decision facing the Steelers this offseason is whether to re-sign Fields or Russell Wilson or completely hit the reset button at quarterback. Considering Fields is the cheaper option with more upside, he should get the nod over Wilson.

Remember, Fields went 4-2 in his six starts with the Steelers last season, throwing for 1,106, five touchdowns and only one interception. He completed a career-high 65.8 percent of his pass attempts and ran for 289 yards and five touchdowns. We know who Wilson is at this stage of his career, but Fields could have some untapped potential ready to be unleashed. 

2. Trade for WR DK Metcalf

The Steelers are looking for an upgrade at the wide receiver position, and a surprising option just presented itself. Metcalf requested a trade from the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday, and Pittsburgh would be wise to pounce now while Seattle has no leverage.

The crop of free agent receivers this year isn't too alluring, as most of the options are either out of their primes or carrying concerning injury histories (or both). Metcalf is still in the prime of his career at the age of 27, and he could combine with George Pickens to make up the best contested-catch duo in the NFL. 

3. Let RB Najee Harris walk, draft Bhayshul Tuten

Harris has been a solid workhorse back for the Steelers, but he's not worth the bigger contract another team will likely give him in free agency. Jaylen Warren is more than capable of leading this backfield without Harris.

Pittsburgh should target a speedster in the 2025 NFL Draft to complement Warren's bruising style, and there's no better option than Tuten. The Virginia Tech product ran the fastest 40-yard dash among all running backs at the NFL Scouting Combine (4.32). He's also a capable receiver on third downs and a dangerous weapon in the return game. The Steelers should target Tuten on Day 2 of the draft.

4. Let CB Donte Jackson walk, sign Charvarius Ward

Jackson is coming off a great season in which he recorded a career-high five interceptions. The 29-year-old will look to parlay that into a big contract this offseason, but Pittsburgh shouldn't break out the checkbooks to pay him CB2 money.

Ward, who is two years removed from a Second-Team All-Pro season in which he led the league with 23 passes defended, would be a better signing with higher upside. His physicality and confidence make him an ideal fit for this city and organization. 

5. Sign DT Milton Williams

The Steelers will have some money to spend if they go the cheaper route at quarterback and running back, and Williams would be a worthy player to splurge on. The Philadelphia Eagles' free agent is coming off a monster performance in the Super Bowl, and he fits how Pittsburgh likes to build its roster.

Cameron Heyward just turned 36, so now is the perfect time to get younger and faster at defensive tackle.