Most fans are digging in their heels on the stance of Russell Wilson or Justin Fields being the options as the starting quarterback next season. Both are free agents who could leave town in the next month. At Mike Tomlin's end-of-season press conference, the Steelers head coach mentioned they would look at exterior choices.
Art Rooney II provided another quote that foresees either Fields or Wilson re-signing, and they will be the starter in 2025. At least that's what the team president is hoping for.
Closing off external choices to possibly upgrade the quarterback spot is foolish. The Steelers must keep an open mind about possible solutions to the most vital position in football. Matthew Stafford and the Rams could be heading for divorce. The veteran quarterback should be on Pittsburgh's radar.
It might be a similar stab as last offseason, but at least Stafford has some game left in the tank.
Matthew Stafford trade to Steelers isn't a far-fetched idea
Losing is never fun, but it gets more difficult as you age. Your body can't do what it used to. Stafford has compiled a Hall of Fame-level resume over his successful career. His time in Detroit was revered, but after being traded to the LA Rams, he became a champion. The veteran quarterback was their missing link, and it rewarded both the signal caller and their organization.
Since then, the Rams have remained one of the best offensive powerhouses in football. Their consistency is something teams like the Steelers envy. Stafford might not be a perfect fit in Pittsburgh's offense, but he would be an upgrade over Wilson or Fields. He has to figure out his next move, but many believe he will depart Los Angeles.
Sarah Barshop, ESPN's NFL Nation reporter covering the Rams, reported Stafford's 'time with the Rams might have ended, but his time in the NFL hasn't.'
Stafford has not signaled retirement in the immediate future, but he seems ready to try for another Super Bowl run. The Steelers front office thought Wilson could have brought a spark with his veteran savvy last offseason, but that failed. Perhaps they still believe they are one piece away, and someone like Stafford would fix their woes on offense once and for all.
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You could see Wilson's physical limitations as the season progressed. Stafford is not mobile, but you can still see the power in his arm. If that can hold still, then he could bring reliability on offense. The best thing about Wilson on the field was his structure and leadership on offense. Stafford would provide both qualities, but he could also attack the middle of the field.
If the Steelers truly believe they are one piece away from a Super Bowl trophy, then they must make trade calls for Stafford. All signs are pointing to him wanting to play more. For one reason or another, it looks like his time with the Rams is ending. Pittsburgh must not be foolish and overlook this opportunity of adding a Hall of Fame quarterback.