The Pittsburgh Steelers’ front office thought they could keep QB Justin Fields. So did Cam Heyward. But when the free agency dust settled, the New York Jets made a stronger offer and Fields was out the door after just one year and six starts with Pittsburgh. Not hiding his feelings about what he wishes would’ve happened, Heyward admits he hoped to see Fields back in 2025.
“Justin’s a class act,” Heyward told Rich Eisen on [Eisen’s show Friday afternoon](https://richeisenshow.com/). “He is a guy that works his tail off and wants to lead by example. I was kind of bummed it didn’t work out here. I thought we were gonna have a chance to get him.”
Fields appeared to be the Steelers’ first choice. But whatever the issue was, be it contract or ill will after being replaced mid-way through 2024, the Jets became the more attractive option. Speaking to reporters for the first time since signing, Fields cited the desire to play for New York head coach Aaron Glenn as a [core reason for him becoming a Jet.](https://steelersdepot.com/2025/03/justin-fields-explains-why-he-chose-to-sign-with-jets/)
Disappointed as Heyward was, he believes Fields will do big things in the Big Apple.
“I know that dude’s gonna dominate in New York. He’s gonna give that team a good chance. Between him and Garrett Wilson already having a relationship there is huge.”
Fields and Wilson played at Ohio State together and now reunite in the NFL as the Jets’ top quarterback and receiver. New York is looking to get the stench of a decade of failure off them, not making the playoffs since 2010, but have a new regime and fresh start.
If Fields can pick up where he left off and continue to protect the football while still showing off his physical traits, he could flourish. Hard work and mentorship could go a long way.
“He’s learned from a guy like Russell Wilson. In Chicago, he learned from his times there. And I think that’s just all gonna lead to him being a really successful quarterback,” Heyward said. “A guy that could be an MVP down the road. Because I think Justin’s just buying his time before he takes the league by storm.”
Pittsburgh will get to see Fields on the other side in 2025 when the Steelers and Jets matchup. The date and time will be known in May when the NFL’s schedule is released.