Many factors could reshape the Pittsburgh Steelers’ outlook on their quarterback situation once the season ends. Aaron Rodgers is expected to remain the starter, but the organization is hopeful that either Will Howard or Drew Allar proves capable of becoming his successor.
If neither emerges as a viable long-term option, Pittsburgh could enter the offseason in search of another quarterback, whether through the NFL Draft or free agency.
It remains far too early to confidently project which pending free agents could hit the open market in 2027, but the possibility cannot be dismissed. Baker Mayfield is currently in negotiations on a long-term contract extension with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, though discussions have not progressed to his satisfaction. If Tampa Bay is unable to reach terms with Mayfield’s, he could become available.
"Not anywhere close to what we were thinking,” Mayfield stated. “Would love to be here long term but as of right now that’s not exactly the case."
Both Tampa Bay and Baker Mayfield are likely motivated to reach a long-term extension on a timeline that works for both sides, as doing so would quiet speculation about his future beyond this season.
If an agreement is not reached before the season begins, the possibility of Mayfield leaving increases significantly. In that scenario, the Steelers could emerge as a potential suitor, especially if Will Howard and Drew Allar fail to show they are ready to take over as the starting quarterback next year.
Pittsburgh Steelers could target Baker Mayfield as their starting quarterback in 2027
No one should be ordering Pittsburgh Steelers Baker Mayfield jerseys anytime soon, but it is a situation worth monitoring. Aaron Rodgers was brought back based on the team’s belief that it can truly contend this season. That outlook appears unlikely, but if the Steelers manage to win a playoff game or two, they could convince themselves that they are closer to a Super Bowl than many expect.
If that scenario unfolds, the offseason could bring significant drama, especially if Baker Mayfield reaches free agency.
The lack of meaningful progress in contract talks is not yet a major concern, but the longer negotiations drag on, the more complicated the situation could become. Pittsburgh is already familiar with Mayfield, and if the team exceeds expectations this season while Aaron Rodgers enters retirement, it may be difficult for the organization to turn its attention to a younger quarterback.
This scenario remains unlikely, but it cannot be completely ruled out. Baker Mayfield has been a player who consistently challenged the Steelers during his time as the Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback. He is very familiar with the division and has shown the ability to perform in a demanding environment.
Any realistic chance of signing the veteran would likely require Pittsburgh to commit to a significant contract.
According to Spotrac, Baker Mayfield is projected to sign a four-year deal worth more than $214 million. That is a significant investment, but it may be the type of move the Steelers would need to make to address their quarterback situation for the long term. Pittsburgh would be taking a bold step if Mayfield reaches free agency, but it is easy to see how the organization could justify it.
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