As the Pittsburgh Steelers navigate a pivotal offseason, the team faces significant uncertainty at the quarterback position. With Russell Wilson and Justin Fields signing elsewhere in free agency, the front office is exploring potential alternatives. This reportedly included veteran quarterback Sam Darnold before he was snatched up by the Seattle Seahawks. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, speculation is growing among fans eager to see how the team will shape its roster for the upcoming season.
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Steelers General Manager Omar Khan (left) and Head Coach Mike Tomlin (right) sit in the franchise's draft room as they anxiously watch the board in 2023.
For Steelers supporters living abroad, keeping up with breaking news, live broadcasts, and game analysis can sometimes be challenging due to regional restrictions. Many fans turn to a USA state VPN to securely access streaming services and sports coverage as if they were connecting from within the United States. With major quarterback decisions looming, Pittsburgh’s next move could shape the franchise’s trajectory for years to come.
Sam Darnold Was A Rising Free Agent Target
Amidst this uncertainty, Darnold rose as a potential solution. After a standout season in which he threw for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and just 12 interceptions, Darnold has redefined his career trajectory while wearing the Minnesota Vikings jersey.
His impressive performance earned him his first Pro Bowl appearance, positioning him as one of the most attractive quarterbacks on the free agent market. With his stock at an all-time high, teams in need of a reliable signal-caller were taking notice, Pittsburgh included, but Seattle pulled the trigger the fastest.
Financial Considerations: A High-Stakes Deal
Signing Darnold didn't come cheap. The 27-year-old quarterback was projected to command a four-year, $160 million contract, a significant investment for any franchise. The Steelers, at the time, had approximately $63 million in available salary cap space. Darnold's deal with Seattle ended up being for three years at $100.5 million.
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Vikings' Sam Darnold stands during the National Anthem before a game in 2024.
Building an Offense to Support the Quarterback
No matter who takes the reins under center in 2025, Pittsburgh must ensure the right supporting cast is in place to maximize the 2025 season. A well-rounded offense requires not only a skilled passer, but also dependable playmakers who can create opportunities downfield.
Adding another reliable wide receiver could provide a much-needed boost to the passing attack. This will give the quarterback more options and reducing defensive pressure on existing targets. The acquisition of DK Metcalf is a great start, and many pundits believe the Steelers will continue to build the WR room in the upcoming draft.
With Steelers fans following every roster move through platforms like DAZN’s NFL Game Pass, the team's ability to build a competitive offense will be under close scrutiny.
What’s Next for Pittsburgh?
With free agency rapidly approaching, the Steelers continue to wait on Aaron Rodgers and his decision on his future. If they choose to invest in him this season, it could mark a new chapter for the franchise, with hopes of returning to playoff contention. Rodgers has suddenly become the team's most appealing option with other veterans such as Daniel Jones, Jacoby Brissett, Mac Jones, Joshua Dobbs, Jameis Winston and Zach Wilson all also finding new homes outside of Pittsburgh.
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Pittsburgh Steelers OLB Alex Highsmith making a hit on former Cleveland Browns QB Jameis Winston in 2024.
As the offseason unfolds, the Steelers’ quarterback decision will be one of the most closely watched storylines. Whether Rodgers becomes the next leader in Pittsburgh or the team moves in a different direction, their choice will have lasting implications for the franchise’s future.
