Schefter: It's Nearly Time For Steelers To Explore Quarterback Trade

The Pittsburgh Steelers have remained a major focus in the media throughout the offseason, due to a combination of high-profile moves and several big decisions still looming. One of the most heavily discussed topics has been the team’s uncertainty at the quarterback position, as they currently don’t have a clear starter heading into the new season. Following a complete overhaul of the quarterback room, the Steelers now have a group made up entirely of players who were originally brought in to serve as backups.

It’s well known that the Steelers are considered strong favorites to land free agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers. However, Rodgers has yet to make a decision, and it feels like the entire league is waiting to see what he will do next. As uncertainty continues, several analysts and insiders have started floating potential backup plans in case Rodgers doesn’t sign with Pittsburgh. Among them is ESPN Senior NFL Insider Adam Schefter, who recently discussed the situation on The Adam Schefter Podcast. During the episode, Schefter brought up Kirk Cousins, currently with the Atlanta Falcons, as an option, and has already been involved in rumors linking him to the Steelers.

"If he [Rodgers] drags his feet more, if he doesn't show up for that mandatory minicamp, and if you are the Pittsburgh Steelers, don't you at that point in time have to have a conversation about whether you should explore trading for Kirk Cousins," Schefter asked.

It feels like ages since rumors first began linking Rodgers to the Steelers, and fans are growing restless. The prolonged uncertainty has led many to question Rodgers’ commitment to becoming the starting quarterback for such a historic franchise. Despite the delay, the Steelers' organization remains confident, with Steelers President and Owner Art Rooney II recently suggesting that a decision might take "a little while longer." Still, the drawn-out nature of the situation has only added to the concern.

Cousins, however, finds himself in a much different situation. Unlike Rodgers, Cousins is not a free agent, he’s currently under a significant contract. Just last year, the Falcons made a major investment by signing him to a four-year, $180 million deal, which includes $100 million in guaranteed money. Despite that commitment, the Falcons stunned the NFL world by selecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, creating unexpected questions about Cousins' long-term role with the team.

This decision was especially confusing considering the Falcons had just made a major financial commitment to Cousins, and the unusual age dynamic between him and Penix. At the time, Cousins was 35 years old, while Penix, despite being a rookie, was already 23 on draft night, making him one of the older quarterback prospects. The combination of investing heavily in a veteran and drafting an older rookie quarterback led many to question the Falcons’ overall vision and long-term strategy at the position.

One of the major challenges with acquiring Cousins is the hefty price tag attached to his contract. Any team interested in trading for him would likely need to take on that full contract, or offer additional assets to convince the Falcons to absorb part of the financial burden. The Steelers have been building up draft capital through trades and may receive compensatory picks, giving them some flexibility to work with. 

They also have the financial room to make a move. However, the real question is whether Cousins is worth the cost. Many argue he isn’t, but with no commitment yet from Rodgers, the Steelers could find themselves in need of a veteran quarterback, and willing to consider bold options.

Steelers Want A Veteran Presence

Reports indicate that if Rodgers doesn’t sign, the Steelers are expected to pursue a veteran quarterback to serve as a backup to Mason Rudolph, who would likely be the starter if the season began today. On the other hand, Cousins is reportedly seeking a trade to a team where he can start. 

If the Steelers were to acquire him, it’s entirely possible he could outcompete Rudolph for the starting job, especially considering the significant salary they’d be taking on. With so much uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position, it’s difficult to predict exactly how the Steelers’ quarterback room will shape up in the coming months.

Would you be interested in acquiring Cousins from the Falcons? Comment below!

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