Le’Veon Bell, former Pittsburgh Steelers running back, recently commented on Justin Fields’ throwing mechanics in an offseason practice video, sparking debate about the quarterback’s readiness for the upcoming NFL season. This analysis delves into Bell’s critique and examines Fields’ potential in Pittsburgh.
Bell’s Critique and Fields’ Historical Performance
Bell’s criticism, delivered via social media, highlighted concerns about the timing of Fields’ throws in the practice video. He pointed out that even in a non-contact drill, the ball seemed to arrive late to the receivers, suggesting potential issues with anticipation and timing. This critique comes as Fields transitions to the Steelers after a mixed performance with the Chicago Bears.
Justin Fields throwing a pass during practice.
Fields faced significant scrutiny during his time in Chicago, often attributed to the lack of high-caliber receiving talent around him and the “Ohio State quarterback” narrative. While he showed flashes of brilliance, particularly with his athleticism and rushing ability, inconsistencies in his passing game raised questions.
The Steelers’ High Expectations and Fields’ Potential for Growth
The Steelers have a rich history of successful quarterbacks, setting a high bar for Fields. Ben Roethlisberger, the franchise leader in passing yards, amassed more yards than the Bears’ top four quarterbacks combined. This underscores the pressure Fields faces to perform at a high level in Pittsburgh. The team’s decision to acquire him signals a belief in his potential, but he will need to address the concerns raised by Bell and others.
Fields’ first season in Chicago saw Darnell Mooney lead the receiving corps with modest production, highlighting the lack of offensive weapons at his disposal. The subsequent acquisition of D.J. Moore provided a much-needed boost, but it wasn’t enough to solidify Fields’ position as the Bears’ long-term solution. The Bears ultimately opted to draft Caleb Williams, leaving Fields with an opportunity to prove himself in Pittsburgh.
Fields’ Weaknesses and the Path to Improvement
One of the main criticisms of Fields during his time in Chicago was his hesitancy to throw over the middle of the field. This, coupled with timing issues, made him a predictable quarterback, often relying on his legs rather than his arm.
The practice video that sparked Bell’s critique seems to reinforce these concerns. While it’s just a snippet of offseason training, the late throws could indicate a deeper issue that Fields needs to address. Improved anticipation and trust in his receivers will be crucial for his success in Pittsburgh.
Conclusion: A Critical Offseason for Fields
Le’Veon Bell’s critique of Justin Fields’ throwing mechanics adds another layer of scrutiny to the quarterback’s transition to the Pittsburgh Steelers. While offseason practice videos don’t always tell the full story, the concerns about timing and anticipation align with previous criticisms of Fields’ game. This offseason will be critical for Fields to refine his skills and prove he can meet the high expectations of the Steelers organization and their fans. Whether he can make the necessary adjustments remains to be seen.
