Former Patriots WR Chris Hogan Believes Justin Fields Has Potential in Pittsburgh

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ICARO Media Group
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26/03/2024 16h31

In a recent appearance on Good Morning Football, former New England Patriots wide receiver Chris Hogan spoke highly of the Pittsburgh Steelers and their newly-acquired quarterback, Justin Fields. Hogan, who Steelers fans may remember from the 2016 AFC Championship Game, believes that Fields has the potential to fulfill the expectations that accompanied his selection as the 11th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Hogan acknowledged that while Russell Wilson is likely to start for the Steelers at the beginning of the season, Fields has a lot to gain from learning under Wilson and could potentially see playing time this season. He expressed confidence in Fields' ability to grow and develop in Pittsburgh, stressing that the young quarterback's true potential has yet to be fully realized.

Echoing Hogan's sentiments, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin also praised Fields' talent and potential. Tomlin emphasized Wilson's established role as the team's starting quarterback but acknowledged that Fields would have the opportunity to learn from and push Wilson during OTAs and training camp.

It is worth noting that both Fields and Wilson are currently playing out contract years in 2024, with the Steelers unlikely to exercise Fields' fifth-year option. However, it is expected that the team will explore the possibility of signing Fields to a bridge extension, ensuring his presence either as a high-level backup or potentially as the quarterback of the future if circumstances don't align with Wilson's long-term success.

While Fields may not assume the starting role in the upcoming season, there is a possibility for him to contribute in specific packages or situations that capitalize on his unique athleticism and speed. Hogan emphasized the importance of Fields' continued development as a passer and accuracy, asserting that the opportunity to learn from Wilson could significantly aid his progress.

At just 25 years old, Fields possesses several innate traits that make him an intriguing prospect. However, the key for him will be to consolidate his abilities and become a more consistent quarterback, veering away from flashy plays juxtaposed with intermittent mistakes. Nonetheless, even if Fields doesn't emerge as Pittsburgh's quarterback of the future, he still represents a valuable backup option, especially considering that the Steelers only had to relinquish a conditional sixth-round pick to acquire him.

As the offseason unfolds, Pittsburgh's quarterback room promises to be an intriguing setting to watch. The hope is that both Fields and Wilson thrive, providing the Steelers with one of the league's strongest quarterback tandems. Ultimately, the goal for the Steelers remains to end their playoff win drought, which stretches back to 2016, coincidentally the week before Hogan's infamous AFC Championship Game performance. Anything short of a playoff victory would be seen as a disappointment for the team.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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