Ranking free agent QB targets for Steelers to backup Kenny Pickett

Quarterback Jacoby Brissett #7 of the Cleveland Browns warms up with a tribute to Damar Hamlin on his shirt prior to the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium on January 08, 2023 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
Quarterback Jacoby Brissett #7 of the Cleveland Browns warms up with a tribute to Damar Hamlin on his shirt prior to the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium on January 08, 2023 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /
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Steelers
Joshua Dobbs #11 of the Tennessee Titans. (Photo by Courtney Culbreath/Getty Images) /

3. Josh Dobbs could reunite with Steelers

This is one that could make a lot of sense for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Josh Dobbs was a former fourth-round pick by Mike Tomlin and Kevin Colbert back in 2017. While he rarely got the opportunity to see the field, everyone in the facility spoke very highly of Dobbs and his football intelligence.

After being traded to the Jaguars, early in his career, Dobbs then re-signed with Pittsburgh in 2020. This past season, Dobbs signed with the Tennesse Titans late in the year and ultimately overthrew rookie Malik Willis. This resulted in two starts to close the year with Ryan Tannehill injured. Dobbs was respectable in two challenging contests against playoff teams in the Jaguars and Cowboys despite very little help from his supporting cast.

Though there are plenty of more experienced backups out there, Dobbs already has a relationship and connection with the coaches and some of the players on the team. Thanks to his plus mobility and the ability to throw on the run, Matt Canada would be able to run a very similar offense with Dobbs if Kenny Pickett were to go down for a few games.

The best part is that the Steelers could save a substantial amount of money after displacement going from Trubisky to Dobbs, as Dobbs would likely sign a veteran minimum contract. Swapping these two could net the Steelers an additional $7 million in cap space and Dobbs would be great at helping Pickett prepare on game day.