How Does Carson Wentz' Departure From Washington Impact The Pittsburgh Steelers?

The vacancy for the Pittsburgh Steelers starting quarterback position was officially filled by rookie Kenny Pickett during the 2022 NFL season. With former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger retiring after 18 seasons of starting for the black and gold, the University of Pittsburgh signal-caller had big shoes to fill.

Drafting Pickett wasn’t the only quarterback move made by the Steelers during the 2022 offseason. Early into free agency, Mitch Trubisky signed a two-year, $14.25 million contract and was expected to be a contender for the starting position. Once again, Mason Rudolph returned to the squad in hopes of an opportunity to take over in the familiar offense.

It was clear that the competition was between Trubisky and Pickett as Rudolph was revealed as #3 on the depth chart at the end of camp. Despite upsetting the Cincinnati Bengals in a thrilling Week 1 overtime victory, it quickly became evident that the offense was not nearly productive enough with Trubisky at the helm. As the Steelers trailed the New York Jets 10-6 at halftime during Week 4, head coach, Mike Tomlin called Pickett's number in hopes of changing the momentum. Although the Jets came out on top, Pickett's performance was enough to name him the new #1.

Pickett led the offense for the remainder of the season and proved that he has what it takes to be a legitimate QB1 in the NFL. This has left Trubisky and Rudolph seemingly open for opportunities elsewhere. 2022 captain Trubisky isn't necessarily done in Pittsburgh, as he has been spotted training with teammates in Florida this offseason. Rudolph, however, is almost certain to make his departure. This leaves Pittsburgh with a likely opening in the quarterback room.

On Monday, it was announced that the Washington Commanders have released quarterback Carson Wentz after one season. Wentz has been a frequent headline since being drafted second overall by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2016 NFL Draft. The quarterback's NFL highlight reel comes primarily from an MVP caliber 2017 season. Wentz led the Eagles to an 11-2 record before suffering a season-ending knee injury against the Los Angeles Rams. The Eagles went on to win the Super Bowl and Wentz was given praise for putting the team in good standing with a top-seed. 

The quarterback out of North Dakota State University has gone on to have an injury ridden and controversial career. Surprisingly, Philadelphia selected quarterback Jalen Hurts in the second round of the 2020 draft. By the end of the season, it was evident that the Eagles had found their replacement. In 2021, Wentz was traded to the Indianapolis Colts for a conditional first-round pick.

Wentz was able to find some rhythm again in Indianapolis, but after a brutal loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars as a heavy favorite, the Colts were knocked out of playoff contention. Finally, the Colts sent Wentz off to the Commanders as the most recent destination in a rollercoaster of a career. As of Monday, Wentz is once again available.

Would Wentz Be A Good Fit For The Steelers QB Room?

Although it's clear that Wentz has had trouble as a reliable first-string quarterback, he could be a solid second or third string option. With Rudolph likely leaving the Steelers and Trubisky's future unclear, Wentz could be an inexpensive veteran to add to a relatively young quarterback room.

Would you like to see Wentz in Pittsburgh? Comment below!

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