What they plan to do at quarterback next season is a major question for the Pittsburgh Steelers heading into the offseason (though not the biggest one, following the departure of head coach Mike Tomlin).
Aaron Rodgers signed just a one-year deal with Pittsburgh last offseason, and he could decide to call it a career this offseason. If anything, Tomlin’s departure makes it seem even less likely that Rodgers will be back with the Steelers, as the coach’s presence was a big factor in Rodgers’ decision to sign with the Steelers in the first place.
Steelers predicted to trade for Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray
If Rodgers is one-and-done in Pittsburgh, the Steelers will have to pivot. Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report predicts that they’ll trade a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 conditional fourth-round pick for Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray.
“Pittsburgh has valued remaining relevant, and this is a move that keeps them competitive in the AFC North. Murray's price has likely taken a hit after playing just five games and carrying $36.8 million in guarantees in 2026,” Ballentine wrote.
“Assuming Rodgers retires, Murray might be the best veteran quarterback available on the trade market. A trade in which they give up a Day 2 pick this year and a conditional pick that appreciates if Murray stays healthy could land them their next veteran quarterback.”
Murray had some success early on during his tenure in Arizona, as he was named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2019 and selected to back-to-back Pro Bowls in 2020 and ’21. Since then though his play has plateaued a bit, leading to questions about his ceiling.
A fresh start could be beneficial for Murray, but that doesn’t mean that the Steelers would necessarily be interested, especially given the size of Murray's contract. Plus, they’ll probably want to figure out the coaching situation before making a trade for a veteran quarterback. A new coach might want to be involved in such a decision.
Obviously the Steelers will need someone to throw the ball next time, but that person being Murray feels like a longshot.
More Pittsburgh Steelers news:
- Ravens owner doesn't rule out Mike Tomlin as a coaching candidate in Baltimore
- Aaron Rodgers addresses future after Steelers playoff loss to Texans