The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2024 season with two new quarterbacks, both of whom were starting for different teams last season.
As things stand, it looks as though former Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson sits atop the depth chart, but former Chicago Bears signal-caller Justin Fields has plenty of talent and could very well be a factor for the team down the line.
While the ultimate test of both players will be how they perform on the field, the Steelers have already won in one aspect of building their roster thanks to their quarterback signings: staying flexible.
The Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer graded the best contracts in the NFL, or the “All-Underpaid Team 2024,” and named Wilson the top value at quarterback heading into the season.
Here’s Iyer:
Between Wilson and Justin Fields, two starters on different teams last season, the Steelers are investing less than $3 million for their top two quarterbacks. The combined desperation of the Broncos and Bears played right into Pittsburgh’s favor. If Wilson is even slightly above-average to complement the defense and running game, the Steelers would have a massive advantage for a season.
Indeed, getting a Super Bowl winning quarterback at the veteran minimum is not something you see often in the NFL, and with quarterback contracts rising year after year after year, nabbing both Wilson and Fields at a discount allows the Steelers plenty of room to play with at other positions.