The Pittsburgh Steelers continue their search for clarity at quarterback as veteran free agent Aaron Rodgers remains unsigned during the offseason. Entering Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Pittsburgh’s roster includes three quarterbacks: Skylar Thompson, Mason Rudolph, and Will Howard. Despite this, the Steelers’ front office is closely watching Rodgers’ upcoming decision, as they aim to have him take the helm under center.
Meanwhile, quarterback Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons has emerged as an alternative candidate for the Steelers’ quarterback room, especially since Cousins has been absent from Falcons OTAs. Pittsburgh is evaluating Cousins’ status but largely favors Rodgers due to the significant efforts made to acquire the four-time MVP.
Evaluating the Steelers’ Quarterback Options Beyond Rodgers
NFL insider Peter King recently analyzed the Steelers’ potential paths at the quarterback position. He highlighted four possibilities the team might consider, given the uncertainty surrounding Rodgers.
King began by expressing skepticism about Kirk Cousins, underlining his underwhelming showing with Atlanta last season.
“Would you rather say, ‘Okay, we’re gonna overpay for Kirk Cousins and not really be sure what we’re getting?’” King asked. ‘Didn’t look very good in Atlanta so we’re not really sure what we’re getting in him.’ Wanna overpay for him, in either money or draft pick compensation?”
—Peter King, NFL Insider
King also examined Mason Rudolph’s role within the team and the possibility of committing to him as the starter if Rodgers does not sign.
“Or do you want to say, ‘We are totally behind Mason Rudolph? We’re gonna ride Mason Rudolph until the wheels fall off?’ Or do you want to say, ‘We will do whatever it takes to have Aaron Rodgers under center opening day, because we still think that he’s got some very good football left in him?’” he added.
—Peter King, NFL Insider
Finally, King brought attention to rookie Will Howard from Ohio State, emphasizing that none of these options stand out as a clearly superior choice.
“Or do you want to give it to the Ohio State kid? I’m pointing out there isn’t a great option. There’s not a single great option.”
—Peter King, NFL Insider
Mason Rudolph Gains Support from Steelers’ Wide Receiver Roman Wilson
In Rodgers’ absence, competition for the starting quarterback role involves Mason Rudolph and Will Howard. Although Howard struggled initially in OTAs, he has shown notable improvement in practices held midweek. Rudolph holds an edge through his experience in the Steelers’ system and existing chemistry with the team’s wide receivers.
Second-year wideout Roman Wilson, who missed his rookie season due to injury, has expressed high regard for Rudolph’s capabilities and leadership within the locker room.
“He’s an elite quarterback, really locked in and bought in,” Wilson said on Thursday. “Everyone likes him a lot. He’s a good dude.”
—Roman Wilson, Steelers Wide Receiver
Coaching personnel are optimistic about Wilson’s development while keeping an eye on the connection he and Rudolph are building, which could prove significant if Rudolph earns the starting role this season.
Implications of the Steelers’ Quarterback Situation Moving Forward
The Steelers face a complex decision among several underwhelming yet distinct quarterback options, each presenting different risks and hopes. The potential arrival of Aaron Rodgers remains the most coveted outcome, considering his past MVP-caliber performance and experience. Yet, until Rodgers confirms, the organization must balance evaluating its internal talent and keeping tabs on external possibilities like Kirk Cousins.
How Pittsburgh resolves this quarterback uncertainty will greatly impact their competitiveness in the upcoming NFL season and the stability of their offense. The offseason developments and final roster decisions will be closely watched by fans and analysts eager to see if the Steelers can find their answer at quarterback.