Steelers' Justin Fields: 'I've Grown a Lot' After Bears Career, Russell Wilson Injury

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields believes he has evolved "a lot" since landing in the Steel City amid a 3-0 start to the 2024 NFL season.

"I've grown a lot over the past year, the past few months so I'm definitely feeling a lot more confident when I'm out on the field," Fields said, per PennLive.com's Austin Hertzog.

"It means a lot, but at the end of the day it's not just me winning games. I'm just happy to be a part of this team, this organization. I'm definitely looking forward to keeping it going versus Indy."

Fields added he's feeling a "sense of peace out there" and "staying calm in the pocket."

In terms of the raw numbers, the 25-year-old isn't all that different compared to his time with the Chicago Bears. His completion percentage (73.3) and passer rating (95.3) are on pace to be career highs, but his 172.7 passing yards per game, 6.9 yards per attempt and 46.9 QBR are all either right around what he did in Chicago or slightly lower.

Still, it's impossible to avoid the conclusion Fields is more assured right now and has a coaching staff that knows how to accentuate his strengths as a quarterback. At this rate, Russell Wilson may not see the field at all in 2024 after his calf injury opened the door for Fields to take over before the opener.

Caleb Williams' ongoing struggles with the Bears are leading some to reevaluate Fields' tenure in the Windy City as well. The pass protection and offensive game plan, which already received plenty of criticism, were much bigger problems than people realized.

ESPN's Courtney Cronin reported in March that Chicago declined a more attractive trade offer for Fields because the front office believed landing in Pittsburgh was a better path for his individual development.

The Bears did their former quarterback a true solid because he's thriving in his new setting.