Russell Wilson, Justin Fields Interested in New Steelers Contracts, GM Omar Khan Says

Quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields have both expressed a willingness to return to the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to general manager Omar Khan.

Khan told reporters Tuesday the team is speaking to representatives for the two signal-callers ahead of free agency:

The GM indicated there will be more moves beyond signing a quarterback to help the offense. He cited a need for "more playmakers."

And while he said that "all options are on the table," Khan tried to throw some cold water on the rumors linking Pittsburgh with Los Angeles Rams star Matthew Stafford:

Wilson, for his part, said in January he was hopeful of suiting up with the Steelers in 2025. He reiterated that stance earlier this month when the Associated Press' Mark Long asked him about the idea of reuniting with head coach Pete Carroll on the Las Vegas Raiders.

Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported on Feb. 9, however, that Pittsburgh was "still undecided" about whether it would prioritize Wilson or Fields.

"It's possible another veteran QB becomes available that would entice the Steelers from moving on from both players," the report said. "Otherwise, Pittsburgh is likely to have Wilson or Fields back on a short-term deal while also continuing to seek a long-term answer, potentially through the draft."

At the end of the day, neither Wilson nor Fields is an optimal solution.

Wilson had a pronounced slide toward the end of the regular season. He threw for 856 yards, six touchdowns and two interceptions with an 84.7 passer rating in Pittsburgh's final five games.

Fields, meanwhile, guided the Steelers to a 4-2 record as the starter but had likewise lackluster numbers (1,106 yards, five touchdowns and one interception) during that stretch. There's a reason head coach Mike Tomlin turned to Wilson midseason.

But with a paucity of great alternatives in free agency or the trade market, re-signing one of Wilson or Fields would be a serviceable stopgap before the front office returns to the question next winter.