Sportsnaut
On Monday night, the Pittsburgh Steelers saw their season come to a decisive end when they were blown out by the Houston Texans, 30-6, in their Wild Card Playoff game.
Heading into the matchups, there was already a belief that it could be the last of Aaron Rodgers‘ illustrious career. After throwing for just 146 yards and an interception, along with a 50.8 passer rating and being sacked four times, it seems like a near lock that the 42-year-old will soon put in his retirement papers.
His exit means that for a fourth straight year, the Steelers will have a new starting QB. There are many different ways the team can go to address the huge hole, assuming Rodgers retires. With that in mind, let’s look at five young and veteran players Pittsburgh could target to replace the NFL legend this offseason.
Malik Willis‘ run with the Tennessee Titans was a major disappointment. However, after two years as a backup for the Green Bay Packers, he has rebuilt his reputation and created real buzz ahead of a jump into NFL free agency this spring. Especially after throwing for nearly 300 yards and hitting on 18 of 21 passes in a late-season loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
Is he the sexiest option? No. But he is only 26, and some thought he might be a first-round pick in 2022. Furthermore, he is a high upside option who would come at a very affordable price in the offseason.
It sure looks like the Kyler Murray era in Arizona will end in the coming months after four injury-plagued seasons, including taking the field just five games in 2025. Since it may be difficult for the Cardinals to find a trade partner for his contract, there is a real chance they may outright cut him and move on.
Whether they take a QB or not with their pick at 21st overall, they should jump at the chance to sign the two-time Pro Bowler if he hits free agency. He is still only 28, and a change of scenery and scheme could get him back to that player. It’s a risk, but a worthwhile one if his asking price isn’t ridiculous.
The Steelers may use their first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on a QB. Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore are seen as the top two QBs in April. But both will be off the board before Pittsburgh is on the clock at 21. However, one option that may be available at that point is Alabama’s Ty Simpson.
While some rough games late in the season hurt his draft value, he is a very smart pocket passer with a lot of potential and would not be a reach at that point in Round 1.
The Steelers need...
