The Pittsburgh Steelers are getting closer to the 2025 season. As Organized Team Activities begin to ramp up, Steelers fans are eager to learn more about how the roster is shaping up. However, one issue continues to cast a shadow over the offseason excitement: the ongoing uncertainty at the quarterback position.
Rich von Biberstein / Getty Images
Steelers' TJ Watt sacks Falcons' Kirk Cousins during an away game in the 2024 season.
Despite it being the most important position in all of sports, the Steelers still don’t have a clear, reliable starter. While some fans continue to support Mason Rudolph as a steady option, the majority of the fan base remains unconvinced. The Steelers are currently in a prolonged saga involving veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and while it increasingly feels like he could end up in Pittsburgh, the process has been nothing short of a waiting game.
If the Rodgers situation doesn’t materialize, the Steelers may need to explore other veteran options, including Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins. ESPN’s Ben Solak recently broke down what he believes a likely trade offer for Cousins would look like. As the offseason continues, Pittsburgh’s quarterback situation remains a major storyline and a source of growing frustration for fans.
Solak believes a fair trade that would make sense for both the Steelers and the Falcons would involve Pittsburgh sending a 2026 sixth-round draft pick to Atlanta, which could escalate to a fifth-rounder based on performance conditions. In return, the Steelers would receive Cousins along with cash considerations to help offset his contract. Solak explained why he thinks this trade makes perfect sense for both sides.
"Why this deal makes sense for both sides: The Steelers' quarterback room is about as thin as one could get ahead of training camp," Solak said. "And if signing Aaron Rodgers falls through, the Steelers must trade for a veteran who can start. Mason Rudolph is currently No. 1 on the depth chart."
While Cousins was considered one of the top 10 quarterbacks in the league just a few years ago, he joined the Falcons on a four-year, $180 million contract.
Stephen Maturen / Getty Images
Quarterback Kirk Cousins drops back to pass during a Vikings game.
The Falcons guaranteed Cousins $100 million. Now, it appears he’s not even their starter anymore.
"Cousins is a good fit for coordinator Arthur Smith's offense, which doesn't need its quarterback to move much out of the pocket," Solak said. "This late of a draft pick is close to Cousins' value, and I'd imagine the Falcons are still willing to swallow $20 million -- maybe even more -- of his salary to get this deal done."
Of course, the Steelers are exploring all of their options at the quarterback position. While the team has publicly expressed confidence in Rudolph as a potential starter, few analysts believe that would be a wise long-term solution. Rodgers remains the most intriguing option, as he would instantly give the Steelers their best shot at competing in 2025 with their current roster.
The Steelers are in a difficult position heading into the 2025 season. While their defense is loaded with veteran talent and proven star power, the offense remains young, unproven, and lacking the same level of impact players. Signing Rodgers would immediately shift the team’s outlook, bringing experience, leadership, and credibility to the offensive side of the ball. His presence alone could raise the Steelers’ expectations and turn them into legitimate contenders.
Steelers Could Gain From The Falcons' Mistake
Even at 41 years old and coming off a disappointing season in which he led the New York Jets to just five wins, Rodgers still carries the experience and talent needed to elevate Pittsburgh’s offense. Another possible option is Cousins, who struggled in 2024 and ultimately lost his starting job in Atlanta to rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
AP
Kirk Cousins speaks to members of the Atlanta media.
The Falcons appear committed to moving forward with Penix, which leaves Cousins in a difficult spot despite the massive four-year, $180 million contract he signed. If Atlanta decides to move on, Pittsburgh could benefit from the situation by acquiring Cousins at a reduced price. A deal could be financially supported by the Falcons and wouldn't require the Steelers to give up a major asset. While not the perfect solution, Cousins could offer stability and experience at a critical position.
#SteelerNation
