As free agency approaches, it really feels like the Pittsburgh Steelers are not going to be content with Kenny Pickett as their starting quarterback. Removing the 2024 NFL draft from the equation for now, here is how the top veteran options break down.
Fan favorite - Justin Fields
Many fans want to see the Steelers pull off a big trade for Justin Fields. The team would need to give up a minimum of a second-round pick and be prepared to give Fields a huge payday.
Familiar face - Ryan Tannehill
Ryan Tannehill and new OC Arthur Smith have a history together and Tannehill was great with Smith running the offense. The price tag will still be high, probably comparable to some of the other guys on this list but he might be the best option for success now.
Big money vet - Kirk Cousins
It has been reported that Pittsburgh could pursue Kirk Cousins. He’s an aging veteran coming off of a serious injury and is asking for $30 million a year. Not a great combination for a team that needs better quarterback play.
The big swing - Baker Mayfield
One name we haven’t heard much about is Baker Mayfield. He might be the best combination of talent and youth of all the veterans but could be the most expensive guy on the list.
The sleeper option - Gardner Minshew
Gardner Minshew was a Pro Bowl quarterback in 2023 after replacing the injured Anthony Richardson. He’s not going to cost as much as some of the other guys on this list and could be a great option to compete with Pickett.
There's no place like home - Mason Rudolph
The Steelers might just choose to throw a big contract at Mason Rudolph to keep stability on the depth chart and just open up the competition between him and Pickett for the starting job.
