The Pittsburgh Steelers, one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, have been at the center of a whirlwind of quarterback speculation as the 2025 season approaches. With a rich history of quarterback excellence from legends like Terry Bradshaw and Ben Roethlisberger, the team’s current search for a stable, long-term solution at the position has captivated fans and analysts alike.
From rumors surrounding high-profile veterans like Aaron Rodgers to the development of rookie prospects like Will Howard, the Steelers’ quarterback situation is a hot topic. This article dives deep into the latest news, addressing what fans are asking about on platforms like YouTube and Google, and provides a comprehensive look at the Steelers’ quarterback landscape in 2025.
The Current Quarterback Depth Chart
As of late May 2025, the Steelers’ quarterback room consists of Mason Rudolph, Will Howard, and Skylar Thompson. This trio represents a mix of experience, potential, and uncertainty, with no clear starter named as training camp looms.
Mason Rudolph: A familiar face to Steelers fans, Rudolph returned to Pittsburgh in 2025 on a two-year, $7.5 million deal after a stint with the Tennessee Titans in 2024. Rudolph, a third-round pick in 2018, has a 8-4-1 record as a starter for the Steelers and has shown flashes of competence, particularly when stepping in for injured or underperforming quarterbacks like Ben Roethlisberger, Kenny Pickett, and Mitch Trubisky. His familiarity with the team and coaching staff makes him a strong contender for the starting role, at least temporarily. Rudolph has expressed a sense of comfort being back in Pittsburgh, noting, “It’s great… it’s obviously good to be wanted.”
Will Howard: The rookie quarterback, selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, has generated significant buzz. While not expected to start immediately, Howard’s size (6’4”, 236 pounds), athleticism, and arm talent have drawn comparisons to a young Ben Roethlisberger. Howard himself has embraced the idea of embodying Pittsburgh’s gritty, blue-collar identity, stating, “They need a gritty guy. Big Ben, he was that guy. He was from Pittsburgh. I want to be like that too.” However, insiders like Gerry Dulac have made it clear that starting Howard in 2025 is “not the plan,” with the team prioritizing his development behind a veteran.
Skylar Thompson: A lesser-known name, Thompson, formerly of the Miami Dolphins, rounds out the quarterback room. He’s primarily seen as a depth option, with limited experience and little expectation to compete for the starting role.
The lack of a definitive QB1 has fueled speculation and debate, with fans and analysts eagerly awaiting clarity on who will lead the Steelers’ offense in Week 1.
The Aaron Rodgers Rumor Mill
No discussion of the Steelers’ quarterback situation in 2025 is complete without addressing the persistent rumors linking Aaron Rodgers to the team. The 41-year-old, four-time NFL MVP parted ways with the New York Jets earlier this year, and Pittsburgh has emerged as a leading contender to sign him. However, the saga has been marked by uncertainty, delays, and polarizing opinions.
Rodgers’ Potential Fit with the Steelers
Rodgers’ connection to the Steelers gained traction in March 2025 during free agency, with reports suggesting he was close to signing a one-year deal to serve as a bridge quarterback while the team develops Will Howard or explores other long-term options. Social media posts on X amplified the speculation, with some claiming Rodgers confirmed his intent to join Pittsburgh by referencing a potential road game against the Chicago Bears in Week 13. However, these claims remain unverified, and no deal has been finalized as of June 2025.
The appeal of Rodgers is obvious: his experience, leadership, and proven track record could stabilize the Steelers’ offense and provide mentorship for younger quarterbacks. However, his age, recent performance dip, and off-field persona have raised concerns. Steelers legend Terry Bradshaw, a four-time Super Bowl champion, has been particularly vocal, calling the pursuit of Rodgers “a joke” and suggesting he “stay in California” to “chew on bark and whisper to the gods.” Bradshaw’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among some fans who question whether Rodgers aligns with Pittsburgh’s hard-nosed culture.
The Stalemate and Its Implications
Despite the hype, negotiations with Rodgers have stalled. Reports indicate that the Steelers are waiting for Rodgers to make a decision, but his indecision has left the team in limbo. If Rodgers opts not to sign, the Steelers may need to pivot quickly, as the quarterback market is drying up. This uncertainty has frustrated fans and analysts, with some arguing that the team’s focus on Rodgers has distracted from other viable options.
If Rodgers does join, it’s unlikely he’d accept a backup role, which could complicate the development of Will Howard and the role of Mason Rudolph. The Steelers’ hesitation to address the quarterback position early in the 2025 NFL Draft suggests they were banking on Rodgers, a gamble that could backfire if he walks away.
Alternative Quarterback Options
With Rodgers’ future uncertain, the Steelers have been linked to several other quarterbacks as potential starters or bridge options. These names have sparked debate among fans searching for answers on platforms like YouTube, where discussions about the Steelers’ quarterback plans are trending.
Kirk Cousins: A Bold Alternative?
One surprising name that has emerged is Kirk Cousins, currently with the Atlanta Falcons. Reports suggest that the Steelers are considering Cousins as a fallback if Rodgers falls through. Cousins, who signed a four-year, $180 million contract with Atlanta in 2024, could become available if the Falcons look to move on after drafting Michael Penix Jr. in 2024. A trade for Cousins would be costly, with Atlanta potentially absorbing $37.5 million in dead cap space in 2025, but it could provide Pittsburgh with a proven veteran capable of leading the team immediately.
Cousins’ fit with the Steelers is intriguing. His consistency and ability to manage games could complement Pittsburgh’s strong defense and running game. However, his high salary and the complexity of a potential trade make this a risky proposition. Fans on YouTube have mixed opinions, with some excited about Cousins’ reliability and others wary of his ceiling compared to Rodgers.
Jameis Winston: A Trade Candidate
Another name floating in the rumor mill is Jameis Winston, currently with the New York Giants. Winston, a former No. 1 overall pick, signed a two-year deal with the Giants in 2025 but could be expendable if rookie Jaxson Dart solidifies himself as the backup to Russell Wilson. A trade for Winston has been proposed as a cost-effective way to add a bridge quarterback who could compete with Rudolph for the starting role. Winston’s arm talent and experience make him an intriguing option, though his turnover-prone history raises concerns.
Derek Carr: An Unlikely Comeback?
In a bold prediction, Sports Illustrated’s Conor Orr suggested that former New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr could come out of retirement in 2025 and land with the Steelers. While Carr’s experience and past success make this an interesting possibility, most analysts agree it’s unlikely unless Pittsburgh faces a catastrophic injury crisis. Carr’s return would be a long shot, but it underscores the Steelers’ need for depth and contingency plans.
The Justin Fields Saga: What Could Have Been
One of the most frequently discussed topics among Steelers fans on YouTube is the team’s decision not to re-sign Justin Fields for 2025. Fields, who started the 2024 season 4-2 for Pittsburgh, showed promise with 1,106 passing yards, five touchdowns, one interception, and 231 rushing yards with five scores. Despite his athleticism and growth, the Steelers opted not to match the New York Jets’ offer in free agency, a decision that has sparked debate.
Reports indicate that Fields was Pittsburgh’s first choice to return as their quarterback, but the team was unwilling to meet his price tag. Fields’ early practices with the Jets have been described as “alarming” due to inconsistency, which has led some fans to question whether the Steelers made the right call. Others argue that Fields’ dual-threat ability could have been the answer to Pittsburgh’s quarterback woes, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Rodgers and the inexperience of the current roster.
The Role of Mason Rudolph
Mason Rudolph’s return to Pittsburgh has been a stabilizing force amid the quarterback chaos. His performance during OTAs in May 2025 drew praise, with observers noting that he “looked the part” of a starting quarterback. Rudolph’s familiarity with the Steelers’ system and his 8-4-1 record as a starter give him an edge over Howard and Thompson. He’s also shown resilience in navigating the “noise” surrounding the Rodgers rumors, focusing on preparation and leadership.
Rudolph’s off-field engagement, including speaking at a Donald Trump event in May 2025, has endeared him to some Pittsburgh fans, reinforcing his connection to the city’s culture. However, his ceiling as a starter remains a point of contention. While reliable, Rudolph lacks the star power of Rodgers or the upside of a younger prospect like Howard, leaving fans divided on whether he’s the long-term answer.
Will Howard: The Future of the Franchise?
For many Steelers fans, Will Howard represents hope for the future. Drafted in the sixth round, Howard was seen as a steal by some analysts, with Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski noting that he could have been selected “two or three rounds earlier.” His physical tools and competitive mindset have drawn comparisons to Roethlisberger, and Howard has leaned into this narrative, expressing his desire to be Pittsburgh’s next “gritty” quarterback.
However, the Steelers are taking a patient approach with Howard. Insider Gerry Dulac has stated that the team plans to develop him behind a veteran, likely Rudolph or a potential free-agent signing like Rodgers. Howard’s openness to learning from a veteran like Rodgers is a positive sign, but his readiness to start in 2025 remains uncertain. YouTube discussions among fans often center on whether Howard can emerge as the starter by 2026 or if the Steelers will need to pursue another quarterback in the draft.
Terry Bradshaw’s Critique and the Steelers’ History
Terry Bradshaw’s scathing remarks about the Steelers’ pursuit of Rodgers have added fuel to the quarterback debate. Bradshaw, who led Pittsburgh to four Super Bowl titles in the 1970s, also criticized the team’s handling of Kenny Pickett, who was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024 after being drafted in 2022. Bradshaw called the organization a “failure” for its inability to find a long-term successor to Roethlisberger, a sentiment echoed by fans frustrated with the revolving door at quarterback.
The Steelers’ struggle to find a franchise quarterback is not new. After Bradshaw’s retirement in 1983, the team went two decades before drafting Roethlisberger in 2004. The decision to pass on Pittsburgh native Dan Marino in 1984 remains a sore point for fans, and the current situation feels eerily similar. Bradshaw’s comments highlight the pressure on general manager Omar Khan to resolve the quarterback question, whether through Rodgers, a trade, or the development of Howard.
FAQs
Is Aaron Rodgers joining the Steelers?
The Steelers have shown interest in signing free-agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who parted ways with the New York Jets after the 2024 season. While team president Art Rooney II has expressed interest, the move is not official. Rodgers’ decision remains pending, and his absence from team activities has been a point of discussion among analysts.
Did the Steelers draft a quarterback in 2025?
Yes, the Steelers selected Will Howard in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Howard transferred from Kansas State to Ohio State in 2024, leading the Buckeyes to a national title and earning Offensive MVP honors in the championship game.
Why didn’t the Steelers draft Shedeur Sanders?
Head coach Mike Tomlin expressed admiration for quarterback prospect Shedeur Sanders during the draft process. However, the Steelers opted not to select him, influenced by previous experiences with veteran quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, both of whom had underwhelming stints with the team. Sanders ultimately fell to the fifth round and was picked by the Cleveland Browns.
How have recent quarterback acquisitions performed for the Steelers?
In 2024, the Steelers brought in Russell Wilson and Justin Fields to revamp their quarterback room. However, both quarterbacks struggled during their tenure, leading to their departures. These experiences have made the organization more cautious in its quarterback decisions.
Are there any trade rumors involving the Steelers and quarterbacks?
There have been speculative trade proposals suggesting the Steelers could acquire quarterback Kirk Cousins and tight end Kyle Pitts from the Atlanta Falcons. However, these remain unconfirmed rumors, and the team’s current focus appears to be on internal development and potential free-agent signings.
In Summary
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ quarterback situation in 2025 remains one of the NFL’s most compelling narratives, blending intrigue, uncertainty, and potential. With Aaron Rodgers’ potential signing hanging in the balance, Mason Rudolph’s steady presence, and Will Howard’s promise as a long-term prospect, the Steelers are navigating a delicate balance between immediate competitiveness and future stability.
Fans, buzzing on platforms like YouTube and X, are hungry for answers, debating whether Rodgers will deliver a short-term spark, if Rudolph can hold the fort, or if Howard could emerge as the next Ben Roethlisberger. The team’s rich history and passionate fanbase amplify the stakes, as Pittsburgh seeks to end its post-Roethlisberger quarterback drought.
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