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The Steelers are going to have some decisions to make before the 2026 season gets kicked off next September. One of the Steelers’ biggest concerns heading into the offseason is quarterback. With Aaron Rodgers still undecided for next year, the Steelers may have to look elsewhere for their starting quarterback.
Kyler Murray
Kyler Murray in Pittsburgh seems unrealistic, but this speculation started when he was benched following a foot injury at the end of the season. According to Tyler Sullivan with CBS Sports, “That decision came with a comment from Gannon that said even if Murray’s foot had been healed, he would’ve stuck with Brissett as his starter at that juncture.” With a new head coach the Arizona Cardinals may be looking for a new signal caller.
However the biggest hurdle in Murray being moved is his contract, he is due $36 million next year and any team that is interested will still have to part with draft capital to acquire him. With some questionable play through this year it is worth considering why Arizona might not want to keep their quarterback? He threw for 962 yards and 6 touchdowns in his 5 games played in 2025 and it’s hard to say he would be a long term solution for the Steelers. Murray is frequently mentioned in trade speculation for the Steelers. But I’m not sure how much sense it makes for an organization who is staring down a rebuild.
Will Howard
The 2024 National Champion may be the best option on the roster come next season. With Rodgers’ retirement looming, and a known commodity in Rudolph, the Steelers may want to take a gamble on the sixth-rounder from Ohio State.
In Mike McCarthy’s introductory press conference he stated that he was excited to get to work with Howard, yet was adamant about wanting Rodgers back. Whichever way the Steelers decide to go it would be wise to see what he’s got, in what many fans expect to be a down year for the Steelers.
Ty Simpson
The 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh is just under three months away. Will the Steelers make a big move for a quarterback in their hometown? Simpson is one of the top options in a very weak QB class. Headlined by Fernando Mendoza, this class hasn’t lived up to the pre-season hype surrounding Drew Allar, LaNoriss Sellers, Garrett Nussmeier, and Cade Klubnik.
Simpson is a one-year starter for Alabama who put on a very strong performance this year. Passing for 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns to 5 interceptions, he looks to become a popular mock draft to the Steelers this off-season. With limited quarterback options this year, another team could reach for a prospect earlier than expected, leaving the Steelers with fewer choices.
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By Hunter Lambert
February 1, 2026
