Steelers QB Carousel: Is Stafford Still an Option or Will They Draft a Rookie?
The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves at a familiar intersection: the quarterback carousel. After a season of mixed results, marked by a mid-season QB switch and an early playoff exit, the Steelers are once again evaluating their options under center. With both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson potentially hitting free agency, the question looms large: will the Steelers pursue a veteran like Matthew Stafford, or will they gamble on a rookie in the 2025 NFL Draft?
The Veteran Route: Is Matthew Stafford a Realistic Option?
The idea of Matthew Stafford donning the Black and Gold has tantalized Steelers fans. Stafford, with his Super Bowl pedigree and proven arm talent, could provide an immediate upgrade to the Steelers’ offense, which has lacked consistent top-tier quarterback play since Ben Roethlisberger’s decline and subsequent retirement.
However, the pursuit of Stafford is complicated. While the Steelers reportedly inquired about Stafford’s availability, the Los Angeles Rams quickly shut down those rumors by signing him to an extension. Furthermore, Stafford’s age (37) and potential contract demands could be a deterrent for a Steelers team that may prefer a longer-term solution. Recent reports suggest Stafford is seeking a contract of $50 million or more, a significant investment for any team.
Despite the challenges, the allure of Stafford remains. As one analyst put it, Stafford is “the one quarterback in the NFL this offseason that could realistically be available, and might be good enough to instantly elevate the Steelers to Super Bowl contender status.” However, acquiring Stafford would likely require significant trade compensation and a hefty salary, a price the Steelers might be unwilling to pay.
Other Veteran Options: Derek Carr and the Free Agency Frenzy
With the Stafford option seemingly off the table, the Steelers are reportedly monitoring other veteran quarterbacks. Derek Carr of the New Orleans Saints has emerged as a potential target. According to KOA’s Ben Allbright, the Steelers are waiting to see if the Saints will cut Carr before his $30 million contract becomes guaranteed. If Carr becomes available, the Steelers are expected to be in the mix.
The Steelers are also considering re-signing either Justin Fields or Russell Wilson. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler suggests that Fields “has an edge” over Wilson in Pittsburgh, and both sides are open to a return. However, Steelers owner Art Rooney II has indicated that bringing back both quarterbacks is unlikely.
Sam Darnold is another veteran name that has been floated as a possibility. After a career resurgence with the Minnesota Vikings, Darnold could offer a reasonably long-term solution for the Steelers.
The Draft: A Rookie Quarterback in the Steel City?
The 2025 NFL Draft presents another avenue for the Steelers to address their quarterback situation. However, opinions are mixed on the quality of this year’s quarterback class. Some analysts believe it is a weak class, while others see potential in mid-round prospects.
According to Sportskeeda’s Tony Pauline, the Steelers have “told people” at the NFL Combine that they are not impressed with the quarterback prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. As a result, there is a “slim to none” chance the team uses a first-round pick on the position.
Despite the lukewarm assessment of the class, the Steelers have met with several quarterbacks at the NFL Combine, including Will Howard (Ohio State), Jalen Milroe (Alabama), Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss), Quinn Ewers (Texas), and Ben Brosmer (Minnesota). These meetings suggest that the Steelers are at least considering drafting a quarterback, likely in the middle rounds, to develop as a backup and potential future starter.
Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette believes that the Steelers’ “likely focus is on finding a young quarterback in the third or fourth round.” He highlights Will Howard as a potential target, noting his size, mobility, and leadership qualities. Other potential mid-round options include Jalen Milroe, Tyler Shough (Louisville), and Kyle McCord (Syracuse).
Among the potential draftees, Jaxson Dart of Ole Miss has generated some buzz. While some believe he could sneak into the first round, others see him as a mid-round prospect with upside. However, some analysts believe that Dart is the only quarterback in this draft class worth gambling on.
The Steelers’ Draft Strategy: More Than Just a Quarterback
Regardless of their quarterback plans, the Steelers have other pressing needs to address in the draft. With potential departures on the offensive line, drafting a lineman in the first round is a strong possibility. The Steelers have also invested heavily in the offensive line in recent years, selecting Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier, and Broderick Jones in previous drafts.
Other potential draft targets for the Steelers include a wide receiver and a defensive lineman. With a deep wide receiver class, the Steelers could find a talented playmaker in the second round. Addressing the defensive line is also a priority, as the Steelers need to bolster their pass rush and run defense.
The Road Ahead: A Decision Looms
The Steelers’ quarterback situation remains fluid as the offseason progresses. With free agency and the NFL Draft on the horizon, General Manager Omar Khan and Coach Mike Tomlin have several options to consider. Whether they pursue a veteran like Derek Carr, re-sign Justin Fields or Russell Wilson, or draft a rookie in the middle rounds, the Steelers’ decision will have a significant impact on their fortunes in 2025 and beyond.