A quarterback who was drafted in the first round just three years ago returning kickoffs?
It seems wild but an NFL rule change could lead to that role for Justin Fields, who was traded from the Bears to Steelers in March.
Cameron Heyward, a veteran All-Pro defensive lineman with Pittsburgh, hosted his “Not Just Football” podcast during the franchise’s draft party last weekend and running back Jaylen Warren said Fields could be used on kick returns.
“Our special teams coordinator (Danny Smith) was talking about Justin Fields being back there,” Warren said with a laugh. “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.”
NFL owners in March approved a rule change that prevents players from moving on kickoffs until the returner touches the ball. The move was intended to increase return rates while also minimizing injuries that come from high-speed collisions.
Fields, 6-foot-3 and 227 pounds, was a star at Ohio State before being selected No. 11 overall by Chicago in the 2021 NFL draft. His three-year run with the Bears was a rocky one as he posted a 10-28 record as a starter while missing time due to injuries. He has completed 60.3 percent of his passes for 6,674 yards, 40 touchdowns and 30 interceptions and has rushed for 2,220 yards and 14 scores.
Pittsburgh’s trade for Fields came after the team acquired veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, who is expected to be the starter this season. Using a backup quarterback as a returner would certainly be unconventional but Fields ran a 4.45 in the 40-yard dash at the combine and has shown the ability to pick up yards with his legs.