Ranking free agent QB targets for Steelers to backup Kenny Pickett
By Tommy Jaggi
The Pittsburgh Steelers could be looking for a QB2 in 2023 if they move on from Mitch Trubisky. Here are the top options for them in free agency.
There are a number of big decisions the Pittsburgh Steelers will have to make during the 2023 offseason. One of those decisions is whether or not to stick with Mitch Trubisky as the backup quarterback. As far as talent goes, the Steelers could do far worse, but Trubisky has a lofty price tag — counting for $10 million against the cap for the 2023 season.
By cutting him, the Steelers would save a substantial $8 million that could be thrown back into a cheaper free agent (perhaps one who has no aspirations of overthrowing a young Kenny Pickett). For these reasons, a mutual parting would probably be beneficial for both parties. It’s also worth noting that Mason Rudolph is an unrestricted free agent.
We know that Pickett isn’t losing his job. Now it’s all about finding a good fit to pair with him as the QB2 and saving money in the process. Here are the best free-agent quarterbacks that would fit what the Pittsburgh Steelers need in 2023.
4. Cooper Rush is a solid backup at a good price
Cooper Rush doesn’t have any defining traits. The former Central Michigan standout is an unspectacular athlete with a below-average arm. However, he has proven that the game isn’t too big for him.
As the backup to Dak Prescott for the Dallas Cowboys, Rush hasn’t been forced to see the field often, but the results were promising when he has. While he can’t take over a game, rush does an excellent job of scanning the field and making the right read. He is 5-1 as a starter while earning 8 touchdowns and just 4 interceptions in these games.
Rush is certainly no threat to overthrow Pickett (which is a good thing). He could be a quality QB2 in Pittsburgh and should come at a fraction of the price the Steelers are set to pay Mitch Trubisky.