Steelers OC responds to QB Justin Fields' highly-critical self-assessment

On Thursday, Justin Fields hinted that he would be Russell Wilson's backup when the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2) hosted the New York Jets (2-4) in Week 7.

It was a bit shocking as Fields has played well the past six weeks, throwing for 1,106 yards, five touchdowns and just one interception while also rushing for 231 yards and another five scores. 

However, the 25-year-old was highly critical of himself and wasn't shocked to be potentially demoted.

"I don't think I played good enough to be real with you," Fields told reporters. "If I'm being real with myself, if I did play well enough, I don't think there would be any sort of, 'Who should be playing? Who should not?'"

It was a very honest answer by Fields, who is unsure when he'll be given another opportunity to prove he can be Pittsburgh's starter, and one that offensive coordinator Arthur Smith thought was a bit too harsh.

"I think sometimes some guys are too hard on themselves," Smith said. "You appreciate that about him. That's why he works so hard. ... I think that's why you love working with Justin because that's real."

Nonetheless, it looks like Wilson will make his regular-season debut on "Sunday Night Football," but it may not go how the 35-year-old is likely imagining.

The Jets are entering the game tied for the NFL's third-most sacks (20).

The Steelers, on the other hand, have dealt with several injuries along their offensive line. Most recently, losing starting rookie center Zach Frazier, who suffered an ankle injury last week and has already been ruled out.

Many would argue that Pittsburgh would be wise to utilize Fields' mobility, but Smith isn't too worried about removing that aspect of the offense.

"There's give and take. They're at different points in their career," Smith added. "It's been a weapon for us certainly. ... You just pivot, and you lean into something else."

It remains to be seen what exactly that will be, as the Steelers pride themselves on running the football early and often.

Smith didn't rule out the possibility of still using Fields in offensive packages, but that will only happen if he is officially demoted.

Fields seems to have already lost some confidence, but Smith believes he should be proud of his accomplishments this season.

"If you make a change like that, I mean, I think you look at everything. ... No decision is ever easy," Smith concluded. "I think his confidence should be high. He's 4-2. He's been pretty productive."