The 2026 NFL Draft has a way of putting a franchise’s biggest flaws under the microscope. For Omar Khan, it is nearly impossible to hide the most glaring concern on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ roster heading into the season. Questions surrounding Aaron Rodgers’ next move continue to linger, prompting fans to think about an emergency plan and even sparking potential trade conversations.
Kay Adams was not shy about sharing her thoughts on Pittsburgh’s next move. “I think it’d be smart to not invest too much draft capital,” she said on the Up & Adams Show. “Go get Anthony Richardson!”
This was more than just a casual suggestion. It feels like one of the few realistic solutions that could prevent Pittsburgh from wasting valuable time and resources.
Richardson has reportedly requested a trade from the Indianapolis Colts, and his desire for a fresh start is understandable. Back in 2023, the Colts selected the former Florida Gator with the fourth overall pick, hoping he would become the face of the franchise.
Since then, the dual-threat QB has dealt with his fair share of adversity, which has slowed his development and kept him from reaching his full potential.
In three seasons, Richardson has totaled just 2,400 passing yards and 11 touchdowns. Those numbers are underwhelming, and they deserve criticism. Still, it is fair to question whether we have truly seen what he is capable of.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have nothing to lose by shopping for Anthony Richardson
I do not believe we have, which is why Adams’ logic makes a lot of sense.
“For a mid-to-late round pick, you can bring in a guy who is 23 years old, who I spoke to Chris Ballard about, who has tremendous upside,” Adams explained. She is absolutely right. Players with Richardson’s physical tools and athletic upside are rare, and they do not often become available at a discounted price.
Add Pittsburgh's 12 selections during the 2026 NFL Draft, and there's potential for a deal. Still, it's frustrating to see what the franchise could resort to.
The truth is, franchise quarterbacks do not grow on trees. It is also incredibly difficult to find one in the draft. Omar Khan and his front office understand that reality all too well. In 2022, Pittsburgh selected Kenny Pickett with the 16th overall pick, hoping he would stabilize the position. A year later, Indianapolis took its swing with Richardson.
Neither move has produced the desired results.
Since then, the Steelers have cycled through multiple quarterbacks, including Mason Rudolph, Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and Rodgers. The Colts, meanwhile, have also dealt with instability at the position. That shared uncertainty makes Richardson an intriguing option if Pittsburgh truly wants to explore alternatives.
As the draft approaches, the idea of acquiring a young, semi-experienced dual-threat quarterback becomes increasingly appealing for Mike McCarthy’s offense. It would allow the Steelers to remain flexible while continuing to develop Will Howard, if that is still part of the long-term plan. At the same time, it provides a legitimate fallback option if neither Howard nor Rodgers delivers.
Bringing in Richardson as a low-cost insurance plan is far more appealing than forcing an unprepared quarterback into action. It could also prevent the front office from reaching on a prospect like Ty Simpson, despite his recent rise in value. With the draft quickly approaching, investing in Anthony Richardson is starting to feel like a smarter move by the day.
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