Report: Steelers' Justin Fields in mix for returning kicks

Field Level Media|published: Thu 2nd May, 12:14 2024

Dec 17, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) pitches the ball to a running back against the Cleveland Browns during the first quarter at Cleveland Browns Stadium. credits: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

Is quarterback Justin Fields in the mix for returning kicks with the Pittsburgh Steelers?

Special teams coordinator Danny Smith has considered the unorthodox move, Steelers running back Jaylen Warren recently told teammate Cam Heyward's "Not Just Football" podcast.

"Our special teams coordinator was talking about Justin Fields being back there," Warren said. "We're like hold up, hold up. We looked at him like, 'Justin Fields is about to be back there?' I don't know. I think it's cool."

There is some logic behind the possibility, what with Fields being one of the most mobile quarterbacks in the NFL and the new "return friendly" rules changes being implemented on kickoffs this season.

Fields, 25, did not return kicks or punts in college at Georgia (2018) or Ohio State (2019-20). During three seasons in Chicago, he rushed 356 times for 2,220 yards (6.2-yard average) and 14 touchdowns.

The Steelers acquired Fields in a March trade with the Bears, in exchange for a conditional sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

The Steelers also acquired veteran Russell Wilson this offseason with the anticipation that he will replace Kenny Pickett as the starting quarterback. Pickett was traded to the Eagles in March.

It seems unlikely that Pittsburgh would use Fields on special teams, considering the team signed return specialist Cordarrelle Patterson in free agency. Patterson, 33, holds the NFL record with nine kickoff returns for touchdowns and is the league's active leader with 7,989 yards on kick returns.

—Field Level Media