Art Rooney II, the president of the Pittsburgh Steelers, has set his sights on securing a long-term quarterback solution for the team. As the Steelers prioritize solidifying their quarterback roster this offseason, Rooney expressed a desire to ink a contract longer than one year. The two leading candidates for this pivotal role are seasoned veteran Russell Wilson and the younger Justin Fields.
Rooney emphasized the significance of evaluating both quarterbacks' ages as they weigh their options. Wilson, at 36, brings years of experience to the table, while the 26-year-old Fields offers youthful potential. Despite these considerations, Rooney believes it is improbable the team retains both players.
"I wouldn't close the door, but I'd say it's probably unlikely," said Art Rooney II.
The Steelers face a critical decision, aiming to resolve their quarterback dilemma. Wilson and Fields each completed their respective contracts with the team last season. Wilson signed a one-year deal, whereas Fields played out the final year of his rookie contract. Both quarterbacks are keen to maintain starting roles.
"I think both of them see themselves as starters and I don't know that they want to share the same job again next year," Rooney explained. "So, I would say most likely we probably don't wind up bringing them both back."
Rooney's comments reflect his belief in focusing on one quarterback to drive the team's future success. He praised both Wilson and Fields for their capabilities but leaned toward signing one of them for the upcoming season.
"They're both capable quarterbacks, and my preference would be to sign one of them," Rooney stated. "So that'll be the priority, and I think that will give us the best opportunity to move forward."
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position, Rooney reassured fans that changes to the coaching staff would not be extensive following a 10-7 season. Head coach Mike Tomlin's leadership remains steadfast despite not having won a playoff game since 2016.
Rooney acknowledged growing fan frustration over recent playoff performances but expressed confidence in Tomlin's ability to maintain team motivation.
"We've got a whole quarterback room to fill, and so there's jobs open in there," he noted.
While Wilson has shown interest in returning to Pittsburgh, as evidenced by his appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show" on January 22, Rooney is open to exploring additional options through the draft.
"My goal is to be with the Pittsburgh Steelers for a long time, hopefully finish my career there, God willing," Wilson declared.
Rooney indicated that drafting a quarterback could be an avenue the team explores either this year or next.
"I wouldn't be surprised if we look in the draft as well either this year or next, and so that's got to be the priority," he mentioned.
The Steelers' quest for a quarterback extends beyond contractual negotiations. Rooney envisions a more permanent arrangement than a mere one-year contract.
"I think my preference would probably be to have something more than a one-year in place next time around, but we'll see what it takes," he said. "It sort of takes two to tango, and so we'll see where it goes."
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