The 8 different routes the Steelers can go at quarterback in 2024

The Steelers get a new journeyman in Gardner Minshew

The next three spots are dedicated to three realistic free-agent routes this team could go. Before I continue, I do want to note that I am not thrilled at the idea of targeting a free-agent quarterback. They are expensive, and if a team is willing to let them walk, they likely aren’t a great franchise option. Just look at Derek Carr and his play this season.

The first free agent route would be a similarly illogical move, as they could target a different journeyman to hold down the quarterback spot for a few seasons. The best name I could find that is pending to be a free agent is Gardner Minshew, but there are a handful of names that could fit in this category.

If Trubisky doesn’t have a career resurgence and plays poorly, there isn’t a real sense in keeping him around. He is well-paid as a backup, so the expectation should be that he can lead this team to a few wins. If he can’t, then he is being overpaid as a low-end backup and should be cut.

That would open the door for Minshew to come in and take on that role. You could still keep Pickett around and let there be an open competition for the role next season. While Pickett would likely have the edge given the investment in him, Minshew is a proven and safe option in the league.

He is a jack of all trades as a quarterback. No, he isn’t going to wow you with amazing traits or elite throws, but he can manage a game and take what the defenses give him. He is also a gritty player, finding ways to eke out wins in tight games. No, he isn’t going to compete with the Patrick Mahomes of the world, but he can hold his own until a real franchise option is brought in.