Aaron Rodgers signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason, believing the relationship would only last this upcoming season. If that prediction holds, the team will be searching for another starting quarterback for the 2026 campaign.
With the 2026 NFL Draft set to be held in Pittsburgh, many believe the team will use its projected arsenal of draft picks to move up and select a top prospect at the position.
That might be their plan for now, but no one should rule out any alternatives. Rodgers could return for another year, or the team could explore the free agent or trade markets again to address the position. Mike Tomlin believes this group is ready to compete, and landing another Rodgers-type during the upcoming offseason might be paramount.
Pittsburgh Steelers could add another retread quarterback to replace Rodgers in 2026
Kylar Murray, Arizona Cardinals
Inconsistency has been a persistent issue throughout Kyler Murray's career. He has led some terrible teams with the Arizona Cardinals, and many should wonder how he would do in a structured environment. Tomlin has earned a reputation as one of football’s premier coaches, praised for both his preparation and his ability to build meaningful relationships with his players.
Murray has been criticized for his lack of effort and preparedness on the football field.
Trading for a long-time starter would be a bold move. He has a massive contract that rolls through the 2028 campaign, but if the Steelers can force Arizona to pay part of the deal, it could be feasible. Murray hasn’t lived up to expectations with the Cardinals, and if he underperforms again, the team could consider making him available.
READ MORE: Steelers' bold 2026 draft plan already falling apart after major QB news
Justin Fields, New York Jets
Some in Pittsburgh still wish Justin Fields had re-signed with the team instead of bringing in Rodgers. Although Fields appeared to be the Steelers’ preferred option, he chose to depart for the New York Jets following his benching for Russell Wilson last season. It was an ugly ending to Fields's career with Tomlin, but that doesn't mean they couldn't reconnect down the line.
Fields will be the starter for the Jets this season, and it might be his last shot as a starting quarterback in the NFL. If he fails, he could be nothing more than a bridge quarterback. The Steelers could still trade for Fields or sign him in free agency if the Jets fail to succeed with him as their starter. This isn't the most likely outcome for both parties, but it's not out of the question.
Kirk Cousins, Atlanta Falcons
Most of the NFL world is baffled by how Kirk Cousins' world has turned upside down since signing with the Atlanta Falcons last year.
He went from their expensive addition in free agency to a pricey backup after only 14 starts last season. He wants a new home to try and land a starting job, but he might be forced to wait until next offseason.
His inflated contract will make any trade difficult for the Falcons to solve. Cousins is under his current deal through the 2027 campaign. Pittsburgh could have interest if they fail to add a reasonable prospect in the upcoming NFL Draft. The veteran gunslinger isn't great, but he could become their fallback option if Atlanta were willing to eat some money off his cap number.