The Pittsburgh Steelers remain in limbo as they await Aaron Rodgers’ decision on their contract offer. The longer he delays, the more likely the team is to explore other quarterback options.
One straightforward approach would be selecting a QB with the 21st overall pick in April’s NFL Draft, though uncertainty about who will be available and the potential value of those prospects makes that route both unpredictable and risky. Alternatively, the Steelers could package their first-round pick in a trade for a young quarterback already in the league who could benefit from a fresh start with a more stable franchise.
Enter Anthony Richardson of the Indianapolis Colts, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2022 draft. Last season, the Colts temporarily benched Richardson in favor of 39-year-old Joe Flacco before reinstating him as the starter. While Flacco is now a free agent, Indianapolis has brought in former Giants starter Daniel Jones on a one-year deal to compete with Richardson for the starting job.
If Daniel Jones wins the starting job, Anthony Richardson’s future in Indianapolis could be in doubt, potentially making him available for trade before Week 1.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell speculated on a scenario where the Colts place Richardson on the trade block, and the Steelers use their No. 21 pick as part of a deal to acquire the dynamic dual-threat quarterback, who will turn 23 before next season.
“I like the fit for Richardson in the Steelers’ offense. His arm strength paired with DK Metcalf and George Pickens would be a scary combination,” ESPN’s Bill Barnwell wrote on March 31. “Coordinator Arthur Smith has utilized quarterback run concepts at every stop, though he’d likely have to lean into them even more with Richardson under center. If Pittsburgh signs Aaron Rodgers, Richardson might not start immediately, but he could take a valuable redshirt year and be ready to start in 2026.”
Barnwell’s proposed trade would send Richardson and the Colts’ second-round pick (No. 45) to Pittsburgh, while the Steelers would give up their first-round pick (No. 21) and a conditional 2027 selection. Richardson is set to enter the third season of his $34 million rookie contract in 2025, with a team option for a fifth year in 2027.
