Let’s be honest: the Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback situation heading into the 2025 season has become a circus. After an NFL Draft that many fans deemed successful, the Steelers are still under a glaring spotlight with no sign of Aaron Rodgers anywhere.
Why? Because they still do not have a clear answer under center and the speculation is getting out of control.
Their sixth-round investment in Ohio State quarterback Will Howard was a headline-grabber. I like the kid—he’s smart, composed, and brings that national champion pedigree. But be real. Throwing him into the fire too early would do him no favors.
Howard needs time to adjust, learn the speed of the NFL, and get comfortable in Arthur Smith’s offense. If Pittsburgh forces his hand in 2025, they will set him up for a rough ride, no matter how talented he is.
The Pittsburgh Steelers would be foolish to make Kirk Cousins their QB for the 2025 season
That leaves us with the other players on the depth chart: Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson. If either Plan A or Plan B, the Steelers should start printing lottery tickets. Omar Khan knows this. Fans know this. Rumors grow more absurd every day that passes without a new quarterback.
The latest name tossed into the Steelers speculation blender? Kirk Cousins. Seriously?
The guy is 36, coming off a major injury, and still under contract. Sure, Cousins is a respected veteran and a Pro Bowl-caliber QB, but acquiring him would cost more than Aaron Rodgers—and offer far less upside.
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Speaking of Rodgers, I still believe he’s the guy. He fits the mold. He’s the only one out there who could realistically elevate this Steelers team without mortgaging the future. But patience is running thin.
According to reports, the Steelers wanted a decision from Rodgers 48 hours before the draft. Mum is still the word. And the longer he stays silent, the more chaos brews in Pittsburgh.
The Steelers did well in the draft, but the quarterback question looms like a storm cloud. I believe Rodgers will join the Black and Gold, but we’re past the point of needing to see it in writing. Until then, expect the rumor mill to keep spinning.