The Pittsburgh Steelers were largely expected to be mediocre in 2024 – to try and extend head coach Mike Tomlin’s non-losing-season streak, perhaps make the playoffs in the process. But after a 3-0 start, Pittsburgh seems well on track to meet, if not exceed, the expectations the media and sportsbooks had set.

It would be ambitious to suggest that the Steelers’ passing offense is the main reason why they are undefeated. An elite defense and less-than-imposing schedule have certainly played significant roles, including in Sunday’s 20-10 win over the Los Angeles Chargers.

But last year, the passing offense held Pittsburgh back. With quarterback Justin Fields under center, the unit has complemented the rest of the team’s success.

Fields’ role, however, isn’t guaranteed – at least not publicly. Veteran quarterback Russell Wilson held pole positioning throughout camp, although a calf injury has largely sidelined him.

Undefeated in the early going and showing no signs of slowing down, Fields has established himself as the better option at the sport’s most important position.

Former Steelers safety Ryan Clark agrees.

“Say it today Mike T!” Clark tweeted on Sunday. “‘Justin Fields is our starter going forward. We have found our guy.’

“Let’s not play this game anymore. Love Russ, but this isn’t about him. The young man has shown he is capable. What a difference a situation makes.”

It’s hard to overstate how well Pittsburgh has helped Fields improve thus far. The Steelers offensive line has played well, and despite lacking depth at receiver, the run game has given the passing attack enough room to operate.

Likewise, Fields gives Pittsburgh more options than Wilson does. Both have warts in the quick game and under pressure, but only one has the physical tools to thrive out of structure at this point in their careers. Fields can keep plays alive and create explosive plays with his legs when things go awry. He also allows Smith to dive into his expansive assortment of quarterback runs. Wilson, at 35 years old, cannot say the same.

The Steelers are winning, and Fields has taken every stride the team reasonably could have asked. This is a version of Fields capable of winning games and making good on a strong defense’s prowess.

As long as Tomlin leaves the status of his quarterback room uncertain, he opens the door for adversity to linger and the locker room to question its situation under center. Fields’ play through three weeks doesn’t deserve such hesitancy.