Mike Tomlin’s plan to keep Steelers’ QB decision ‘in-house’ apparently spoiled by George Pickens

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has not announced whether Justin Fields or Russell Wilson will start against the New York Jets. On Friday, he said he has made his decision but was going to keep his choice “in-house.”

For how long? No one knows, but Tomlin’s pick to start Sunday night at MetLife Stadium is apparently Wilson, according to wide receiver George Pickens.

Pickens said Friday that he has been working extra with Wilson after practice this week “more than usual because this is his first start,” per ESPN’s Brooke Pryor.

It was only a matter of time before Tomlin would turn to Wilson. He said the veteran quarterback was in “pole position” for the starter’s job back in March and a calf injury was the only thing that prevented Wilson from playing.

Now that Wilson is healthy, it appears he will make his first start since Dec. 24, 2023.

Fields won’t be surprised by Tomlin moving to Wilson, if that is indeed the choice. This week, Fields said that if he were playing better there would be no debate about who should start for the Steelers.

The Steelers are 4-2 and tied with the Baltimore Ravens atop the AFC North. After a hot start to the season, Fields has cooled off. He’s thrown for under 150 yards in each of their past two games and also has recorded a 57% completion percentage over that stretch.

Wilson’s experience is something that is playing a factor in Tomlin’s decision. A few off weeks from Fields and now the door is open for the veteran to right the ship.

Following the Jets, the Steelers will face the New York Giants before going on their bye week. After their week off they have the Washington Commanders and Baltimore Ravens.