Two weeks into free agency, the Pittsburgh Steelers still don’t have a starting quarterback (unless you believe they want Mason Rudolph to start). Given this and the lack of big names the Steelers have signed in free agency so far, it is fair to label this free agency as disappointing. Garrett Podell of CBS Sports went further, calling them free-agent losers.
“The only quarterbacks currently on the Steelers’ roster are Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson,” wrote Podell. “That’s definitely a way to have both Metcalf and George Pickens upset when the season begins. Pittsburgh is still likely awaiting the result of the Aaron Rodgers sweepstakes, something seven-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Cameron Heyward is losing his tolerance and patience with the longer it drags on. There’s a good chance they can still land Russell Wilson if Rodgers falls through, but it was clear in 2024 that there’s a ceiling on the offense with Wilson at the controls.”
Pittsburgh’s splash at wide receiver by trading for DK Metcalf involves a long-term vision, as they signed him to a five-year extension. However, the lack of a quality quarterback signed to throw Metcalf the ball is concerning. The Steelers should want to maximize their window with Metcalf. With WR George Pickens only under contract for one more season, Pittsburgh’s elite wide receiver duo may not have much time to play together if Pickens isn’t re-signed.
While Pittsburgh has been trying and failing to answer its quarterback position, they have failed to adequately address other positions of need. The Steelers’ failure to sign a starting-caliber quarterback has caused a domino effect, leading to a very mediocre defensive line group and an offensive line with little depth. The quarterback position remains the biggest question mark for Pittsburgh. But even if they sign Rodgers, the free agent market no longer offers many appealing options.
The Steelers will have to fill out many of their needs in the draft. This year’s draft offers talent at positions of need, but it requires Pittsburgh to hit on them. If the Steelers had re-signed Fields before free agency started or early on, they could have addressed their needs without requiring rookies to become Year One contributors. But now, early-round rookie draft picks must contribute extensively in Year One for Pittsburgh. Now, the Steelers are looking at their second option in Rodgers, who is in no rush to make a decision, while other free-agent quarterbacks sign with other teams.
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