5 potential replacements for Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger in 2022
By Tommy Jaggi
Marcus Mariota, Raiders
This is a name that has been on the radar all along, and it’s not hard to see why. While Marcus Mariota never lived up to lofty expectations as a former 2nd overall draft pick, he has been one of the best backups in the NFL over the past few seasons and has earned a shot at being a starter once more.
Just like Ryan Tannehill’s career was revived with a change of scenery, Mariota could prove to be a quality option for the Steelers (at least in the present). Mariota hasn’t been forced to see the field much over the past three seasons, but when he has, the results have been favorable — earning 8 touchdowns to just 3 interceptions.
At 28 years old, there probably isn’t much hope for Mariota to become a long-time starter, but he could prove to be good enough to hold down the fort for now. Mike Tomlin will no doubt love his mobility — something he has emphasized in press conferences during the 2021 season.
Like Bridgewater, Mariota wouldn’t be asked to carry the team on his shoulders. Rather, Pittsburgh would give him a manageable game plan that could perhaps be a bit more creative than what they could be with Ben at the helm. I think he’s a player they explore in free agency this year.