Open Nav
Show Navigation
Show Menu
FANTASY FOOTBALL NEWS

Justin Fields Gaining Ground On Russell Wilson?

By Jared Smola | Updated on Thu, Aug 1 2024 1:28 AM UTC
Justin Fields Headshot

ESPN's Adam Schefter believes Justin Fields has gained some ground on Russell Wilson in the race for the Steelers' starting QB job. Fields has "gotten better at practice every day," per Schefter, while Wilson missed a few days with his calf injury. "I think Russell Wilson remains in the pole position, but I also think that Justin Fields has opened some eyes, and they see the type of offense they could have," Schefter said.

2024 Fantasy Football Impact

We're still over a month away from Week 1, so this battle isn't close to decided. If Wilson stays healthy the rest of camp and doesn't face plant, he's still likely to open the season under center. But his leash is seemingly shorter now than it was a couple of weeks ago.

That risk -- coupled with unexciting upside in OC Arthur Smith's run-heavy offense -- makes Wilson an unappealing QB3 in best-ball drafts.

Fields' rushing ability would give him QB1 upside if he makes starts this season, despite the poor environment.

Other Winners & Losers

WR George Pickens and TE Pat Freiermuth drafters should be hoping Wilson wins this job. Fields' high scramble rate and sack rate would lower the already minimal passing volume in Pittsburgh.

Jared Smola Author Image
Jared Smola, Lead Analyst
Jared has been with Draft Sharks since 2007. He’s now Lead Analyst, heading up the preseason and weekly projections that fuel your Draft War Room and My Team tools. He currently ranks sixth among 158 analysts in draft rankings accuracy.
Premium Content Premium ContentTennessee Titans Fantasy Forecast: Can Cam Ward Spark This Offense?

Tennessee Titans Fantasy Forecast: Can Cam Ward Spark This Offense?

1:33pm UTC 5/29/25

Cam Ward should be an immediate upgrade for the Titans — and could make this an undervalued offense in 2025 fantasy drafts.

Read More »
Video: 32 Facts That Shape Your Fantasy Football Rankings

Video: 32 Facts That Shape Your Fantasy Football Rankings

3:47pm UTC 5/28/25

What do you need to know about the Cardinals' offense? Are the Packers in the midst of a dramatic shift? And what's worrisome about Baker Mayfield? Find out all that and much more on this episode of our fantasy football podcast.

Read More »
2025 Dynasty Rookie Rankings: Top RBs, Breakout WRs & Hidden Gems

2025 Dynasty Rookie Rankings: Top RBs, Breakout WRs & Hidden Gems

2:39pm UTC 5/28/25

The 2025 rookie class is loaded with RB talent, sprinkled with high-upside WRs and TEs. Whether you're gunning for Ashton Jeanty or hunting for sleepers, we've got you covered with full rankings.

Read More »
Compare Plans » Compare Plans »