The Pittsburgh Steelers didn’t seem to anticipate quarterback Justin Fields having a hot market in free agency. 

In a story published Tuesday, The Athletic’s Mike DeFabo reported the Steelers wanted Fields to return in 2025 but “at their price.” The New York Jets were willing to go above it. 

On Monday, New York and Fields agreed to a two-year, $40M deal with $30M guaranteed, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

The Steelers not wanting to overpay for Fields is understandable. In 2024, he went 4-2 in six starts before Russell Wilson replaced him. During that span, however, Fields threw for more than 300 yards once.

Fields — whom the Chicago Bears selected with pick No. 11 in the 2021 NFL Draft — has yet to prove he’s an accurate passer. In four seasons, he has completed a subpar 61.1 percent of his passes.

Still, letting Fields, 26, walk could prove costly for the Steelers. He could’ve become a viable starter or trade chip for Pittsburgh. If the Steelers fail to find a replacement, the decision could look like an even bigger mistake. 

Pittsburgh’s options in free agency are dwindling. QB Sam Darnold agreed to a three-year, $100.5M deal with the Seattle Seahawks Monday (via Schefter). 

Pittsburgh could re-sign Wilson or add QB Aaron Rodgers, who is expected to be released by the New York Jets. But neither would be a long-term solution for the Steelers. Wilson is 36, and Rodgers is 41. 

The 2025 NFL Draft isn’t considered deep at the position. On his updated big board, ESPN’s Field Yates lists only two QBs (Miami’s Cam Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders). Both may be unavailable when Pittsburgh picks at No. 21. 

The QB questions still linger over the Steelers. Reaching an agreement with Fields would’ve provided some stability.