The aging process is an inevitable reality in professional sports, and for the Pittsburgh Steelers, the ticking clock is particularly loud when it comes to their quarterback position. After a serviceable 2025 season from 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers thus far, who signed a one-year deal with the franchise this past offseason, the team is staring down another crucial offseason decision.
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Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Handing the keys to the offense to a sixth-round rookie like Will Howard or a career back-up in Mason Rudolph would be a gamble the Steelers would be unwise to make. With Rodgers’ contract expiring, Pittsburgh must explore the veteran market for a quarterback who can not only lead the locker room, but elevate the offense in 2026.
Here, in partnership with FIRST.com – the home of weekly NFL odds and predictions – we break down five candidates.
1. Mac Jones
After a challenging end to his time with the New England Patriots, Mac Jones has found new life as a back-up for the San Francisco 49ers in the 2025 season. He has stepped in impressively during Brock Purdy’s injury, showing a level of poise and accuracy that was missing in his later years in New England. A trade for Jones would be a low-risk, high-upside move for the Steelers. His familiarity with a well-designed, pro-style offense from his time in San Francisco could make for a smooth transition, giving Pittsburgh a savvy veteran who can manage the game and make smart throws. While he is not a world-beater, Jones is a more than competent passer who could provide the stability the Steelers need to contend.
2. Kyler Murray
The Arizona Cardinals’ situation with Kyler Murray is murky, to say the least, following a string of injuries and Jacoby Brissett’s recent success in his absence. The dynamic, yet often inconsistent, Murray was placed on injured reserve in early November, leading some observers to question his future in Arizona. His explosiveness and playmaking ability, particularly outside the pocket, could inject a new dimension into the Steelers’ offense. However, his salary cap hit would be substantial and Pittsburgh would have to weigh the high ceiling against his noted inconsistency and recent injury woes. If the relationship between Murray and the Cardinals truly sours and he becomes available, the Steelers could be a prime landing spot for a change of scenery.
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3. Joe Flacco
It may seem like déjà vu, but Joe Flacco has proven once again in 2025 that he can win games with a strong supporting cast. Despite being nearly Rodgers’ age at 40, he has been a consistent performer for the Cincinnati Bengals this season, showing he still possesses the arm strength and experience to lead an offense. Flacco would represent a similar, yet perhaps slightly more stable, option to Rodgers. He is a pocket passer who thrives when given time, and his Super Bowl-winning experience would be an invaluable asset in the locker room. For a team that relies heavily on a stout defense and running game, Flacco’s reliable downfield passing could be the missing piece.
4. Jacoby Brissett
Should the Cardinals opt to ride out the Kyler Murray experience in 2026, Jacoby Brissett would make an enticing trade target. Brissett’s recent stint filling in for Murray was highlighted by a record-breaking performance in Week 11, where he completed 47 passes against the 49ers. This demonstrated his ability to command an offense with precision and volume when needed. Brissett offers a blend of experience and efficiency, and as a proven back-up who has stepped up in big moments, he offers a level of reliability that the Steelers could covet.
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5. Jimmy Garoppolo
Jimmy Garoppolo is another veteran quarterback who could be a solid, short-term option for the Steelers. Though he is currently backing up Matthew Stafford on the Los Angeles Rams, Garoppolo has a track record of success, including leading the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance. While not a flashy quarterback, he is a proven winner who can execute a well-coached offense. Like Jones, he is familiar with a system built on timing, play-action and a strong running game, which aligns perfectly with the Steelers’ historical identity. Garoppolo could be a bridge quarterback who can deliver consistency while the team develops a younger signal-caller.
