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

Steelers could take a shot on a different turnaround with Baker Mayfield

Continuing with our free agent options, there appears to be, on paper, a surplus of potential quarterbacks to consider next offseason. While these names aren’t great, and most will be relegated to backup duties, a few should be receiving starter opportunities.

If the Steelers wanted to secure a more viable starting option, they could ink a familiar face to a contract in Baker Mayfield. The former Browns top quarterback has had a winding road as of late. From their guy of the future to being cut, Mayfield has played for a few different teams over the past few years. He landed in Tampa Bay this season and has performed well.

Mayfield is in a tier above Minshew as a player. He can push the ball more and make bigger plays in the pocket. While this also leads to more risks, he looks the part of a starter who can lead a team to a win on his own on occasion. He forces too many throws which leads to mistakes, but he has shown this season that he still can be a fine starter.

You likely have already cut Trubisky at this point if you are bringing in Mayfield. The expectation would be for him to start even if Pickett stays around for another season. Unless Pickett really makes that jump, Mayfield is your starter and Pickett becomes the backup. You are likely still looking to draft your replacement later on.

While unlikely, we have seen some quarterback redemption arcs. Most notable has been Geno Smith, who was a high-quality backup for most of his career after being a bust of a starter. He has since taken the starting job with the Seahawks and has run with it. The best-case scenario would be just that for Mayfield, but he could also provide some bigger plays for this offense, something that has been lacking from the quarterback position.