The Pittsburgh Steelers could be on the verge of making a major splash in the quarterback market. With uncertainty surrounding their current quarterback situation, analysts are predicting that the team could pursue a high-profile veteran. A recent report suggests that the Steelers may sign a 10-time Pro Bowler who has earned a staggering $112.5 million over his career.
With the departure of Kenny Pickett and inconsistent play from last year’s quarterbacks, the Steelers have been exploring all available options. The front office has been linked to multiple free-agent quarterbacks, but one name has emerged as a prime candidate: Russell Wilson. The former Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos star is now available after being released, and Pittsburgh is being touted as a logical landing spot.
Wilson, a Super Bowl champion and one of the most accomplished quarterbacks of his era, has struggled in recent seasons but still possesses the leadership and experience that the Steelers could value. The 35-year-old veteran had an improved 2024 campaign with the Broncos, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 25 touchdowns, but Denver opted to move on in favor of a full rebuild. Now, Wilson is searching for his next opportunity.
The Steelers have long been known for their strong defense and power-running game, but their passing attack has left much to be desired in recent years. Adding a quarterback with Wilson’s pedigree could provide stability at the position and take pressure off a young offensive core, including running back Najee Harris and wide receiver George Pickens.
One of the key factors in Wilson’s potential signing with Pittsburgh is his connection with head coach Mike Tomlin. The Steelers coach has always respected veteran leadership, and Wilson’s experience could be a strong fit for the locker room. Additionally, Pittsburgh’s offensive coordinator would need to tailor a scheme that suits Wilson’s mobility and playmaking ability.
Financially, the move could make sense for the Steelers. Wilson’s previous contract was one of the largest in NFL history, but at this stage of his career, he may be open to signing a more team-friendly deal. If Pittsburgh can land him on a short-term contract with incentives, it could provide them with an experienced quarterback while maintaining financial flexibility.
If the Steelers do sign Wilson, it would signal a shift in their approach. Instead of developing a young quarterback, they would be committing to a proven veteran in hopes of immediate success. With the AFC North becoming increasingly competitive, bringing in a quarterback with playoff experience could give Pittsburgh an edge in the division.
While nothing has been finalized, the speculation surrounding Wilson and the Steelers continues to grow. If Pittsburgh does move forward with signing the 10-time Pro Bowler, it could be one of the most significant quarterback moves of the offseason. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Wilson ultimately dons the black and gold
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a playoff-caliber roster but lack a quarterback—for now. With the NFL Draft approaching later this month, they hold the 21st overall pick, which they could either use to draft a QB or trade up to secure one earlier in the draft.
Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report predicted on April 2 that the Steelers will soon wrap up their extended pursuit of free agent Aaron Rodgers by signing him to a contract in the near future.
Gagnon wrote that “all signs point to Pittsburgh,” as the Steelers, a potentially competitive team, have lost both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields while lacking the draft assets to acquire a quarterback that way. He added that a deal seems likely but noted the unpredictability of a player like Aaron Rodgers.
When asked about the possibility of acquiring Aaron Rodgers, Steelers owner Art Rooney II told reporters on Tuesday that the signs are “pointing in that direction.” Meanwhile, Rodgers recently held a private workout with wide receiver DK Metcalf, whom Pittsburgh traded for this offseason before signing him to a $132 million extension.
Rodgers, who will turn 42 in December, spent the past two seasons with the New York Jets. This spring, the Jets released him with one year left on his $112.5 million contract.
Rodgers is a four-time NFL MVP and a 10-time Pro Bowler, most recently earning both accolades after the 2021 season.
