Their 2024 season may be over, but the Pittsburgh Steelers continue to make headlines as they head into the offseason. At the forefront of Steelers-related news (aside from continued criticism of head coach Mike Tomlin) are the team’s possible plans at quarterback and the involvement of embattled receiver George Pickens.
During his season-ending press conference, Tomlin was noncommittal when talking about quarterbacks Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, although he did say that Fields showed him last season that he is a capable starter in this league. Both quarterbacks are free agents, but the team will most likely try to re-sign Fields if he is willing to return for the 2025 season. After all, Fields may receive better offers from other teams after going 4 -2 as Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback in 2024.
One quarterback who doesn’t appear to be in the mix is Aaron Rodgers, the former four-time league MVP who threw two picks (both to Steelers rookie cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr.) in a Week 7 loss. of the Jets against the Steelers. Rodgers’ age (41) and lack of mobility at this stage of his career are likely two of the main reasons Pittsburgh isn’t interested in him, according to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
“I can tell you it’s not going to be Aaron Rodgers,” Dulac said on “The Rich Eisen Show” Thursday. “They have no interest in doing that.”
When asked about Wilson, Dulac said the Steelers may no longer have interest in signing Wilson to a long-term contract. Wilson has publicly expressed his desire to return to Pittsburgh for what would be his 14th season in the NFL. The Steelers will likely acquire a veteran quarterback this offseason; they just need to decide if it’s Wilson or another veteran (Sam Darnold?).
Regarding Pickens, both the Post-Gazette and Sports Illustrated have alluded to Pickens’ future with the Steelers. SI reported that the Steelers are ready to “move forward” with Pickens while they conduct a complete overhaul of the receiving corps. While he is a productive player, Pickens’ maturity issues have continued to hinder his potential. He was reported to be late for Pittsburgh’s Week 17 loss to the Chiefs, for example.
The Steelers would likely receive a good draft pick in exchange for Pickens, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract. Pittsburgh could possibly use that pick to find Pickens’ replacement.
In addition to quarterback and receiver, running back and defensive line are other positions the Steelers will likely focus on this offseason. The defensive line was cut by 299 rushing yards during Pittsburgh’s loss to Baltimore in the wild-card round. Pittsburgh will likely need to find Najee Harris’ replacement as Harris is scheduled to test free agency for the first time.
