Things could get interesting for the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason, especially if they part ways with Aaron Rodgers. While their starting quarterback from last year seems likely to return, there are no guarantees until he signs on the dotted line. Regardless of whether Rodgers returns or not, Pittsburgh must make the best moves to improve the position for both the present and the future.
If Rodgers decides not to return to the Steelers, it could open plenty of doorways moving forward.
New head coach Mike McCarthy has been openly excited about the potential of Will Howard, but you must take that with a grain of salt. He was a sixth-round pick a year ago and hasn't played a single NFL snap, including the preseason. Fans are excited about Howard, but the odds of him panning out are low.
ESPN's Stephen Holder reported that Anthony Richardson of the Indianapolis Colts will likely request a trade in the coming weeks. That would be an interesting trade option for the Steelers to consider moving forward. He has a lot of warts surrounding his game, but McCarthy could be the reason for change. Pittsburgh hired McCarthy to solve its long-term plan at quarterback, and this could be it.
Pittsburgh Steelers HC Mike McCarthy should ask to trade for QB Anthony Richardson
Many people might dislike the idea of acquiring Richardson in a potential trade. At first glance, it may seem like a poor decision. He is a draft bust who hasn't shown many signs of growth in a system where Daniel Jones saw a resurgence. With that said, the young gunslinger has a lot of room to grow, and a new team might unlock something in his game.
He has a lot of talent to mold into a solid quarterback.
Richardson will only be 24 years old on May 22, and he could take a step in his development with McCarthy at the helm. It would be best if Rodgers re-signed in this scenario. Richardson and Howard would have a season to learn behind the future Hall of Fame quarterback before they battled for the starting job. Even if Rodgers fails to return to Pittsburgh, Richardson remains a logical option.
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The Steelers have demonstrated that they are not afraid to take chances on young quarterbacks. They traded for Justin Fields just a few years ago, and although the move ultimately did not work out, it demonstrated their willingness to take a chance on a low-floor, high-ceiling type at QB.
Anthony Richardson has less experience than Fields, but the two are similar players—highly talented quarterbacks who have yet to develop to meet their draft expectations.
Richardson's biggest question mark is his desire to become a quality player in the NFL. His work ethic has been called into question, which is concerning. A fresh start with the Steelers and their stable environment could help the young quarterback unlock his potential. McCarthy was brought to Pittsburgh to mold a young quarterback into a franchise guy, and Richardson has all the talent to be that guy.