Report: Steelers won't pick up QB Justin Fields' option

The Pittsburgh Steelers are passing on a team option for the 2025 season in quarterback Justin Fields' contract, ESPN reported Thursday.

The option would have guaranteed the 2021 NFL Draft No. 11 overall pick a $25.7 million salary in 2025.

Fields, acquired from the Chicago Bears in a trade last month, has a base salary of $1.6 million for the 2024 season.

Fields, 25, is expected to back up Russell Wilson in Pittsburgh after going 10-28 as a three-year starter in Chicago.

The Steelers have until May 2 to decide on the fifth-year options for Fields as well as running back Najee Harris.

Fields has passed for 6,674 yards with 40 touchdowns and 30 interceptions and rushed for 2,220 yards and 14 TDs.

—Field Level Media