Pittsburgh Steelers Evaluating Quarterback Options for the 2025 Season
As the Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2025 NFL offseason, the team is facing a significant decision regarding its quarterback situation. Russell Wilson, who joined the team after his departure from the Denver Broncos, may not return for the upcoming season due to concerns over his performance and age. Additionally, backup quarterback Justin Fields has not shown the consistency needed to secure the starting job. With these uncertainties, the Steelers’ front office is actively exploring potential replacements, including veteran quarterbacks Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams and Aaron Rodgers, formerly with the New York Jets.
Wilson’s Struggles and Steelers’ Dilemma
Russell Wilson was expected to bring experience and leadership to Pittsburgh’s offense, but his performance in the 2024 season fell short of expectations. While he showed flashes of his former Pro Bowl talent, inconsistencies in decision-making, mobility, and deep-ball accuracy raised concerns about his ability to lead the team to the playoffs. Given his age and declining play, the Steelers are considering whether it’s time to move in a different direction.
Justin Fields, acquired in a trade with the Chicago Bears, was seen as a potential long-term solution. However, he struggled to prove himself as a reliable starter, leaving the Steelers with more questions than answers at the most important position in football.
Stafford and Rodgers as Potential Replacements
Two high-profile names have emerged in discussions as the Steelers weigh their options: Matthew Stafford and Aaron Rodgers.
Matthew Stafford: The 36-year-old quarterback is coming off a strong tenure with the Los Angeles Rams, where he helped lead the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2022. Stafford’s arm talent and experience could provide an immediate upgrade for the Steelers. However, his age and injury history are concerns, and it remains unclear whether the Rams are willing to part ways with him.
Aaron Rodgers: The four-time MVP and Super Bowl champion was sidelined for most of the 2024 season with the Jets due to an Achilles injury. If healthy, Rodgers could bring a dynamic presence to Pittsburgh’s offense. However, not everyone in the Steelers’ organization is on board with this idea. Safety DeShon Elliott recently voiced his opposition to the possibility of Rodgers joining the team, suggesting the veteran should retire instead.
What’s Next for the Steelers?
The Steelers’ front office, led by head coach Mike Tomlin and general manager Omar Khan, must carefully assess their options in the coming weeks. The 2025 NFL Draft presents another avenue for acquiring a young quarterback, but with the Steelers not holding a high draft pick, trading for a proven veteran may be the more realistic path.
Pittsburgh has long prided itself on stability at quarterback, with Ben Roethlisberger leading the franchise for nearly two decades before his retirement in 2022. Finding a new long-term solution remains a top priority as the team aims to stay competitive in the AFC North.
With the offseason in full swing, all eyes are on the Steelers as they decide the future of their quarterback position. Will they stick with Wilson, take a chance on Fields, or bring in a seasoned veteran like Stafford or Rodgers? The coming months will be crucial in shaping the team’s direction for the 2025 season.
