Steelers Linked To $240 Million QB In Huge Mike McCarthy Reunion

The Pittsburgh Steelers may not be finished exploring veteran quarterback options after the 2026 season, but according to insider Mark Kaboly, any potential move would have to make sense for the team's long-term future. While Pittsburgh could give its younger quarterbacks opportunities to compete for the starting job, Kaboly believes there is at least one established name worth keeping an eye on because of his connection to head coach Mike McCarthy.

During an appearance on The PM Team w/Poni & Mueller, Kaboly discussed whether bringing in another veteran quarterback could be on the table for the Steelers in 2027. 

His answer suggested that Pittsburgh should not pursue an experienced quarterback simply for the sake of having one, particularly if the alternative is giving its young players a chance to develop.

"No, No, if you're going to go Mac Jones, you might as well just play out with the young guys. See what Allar can do, but I could see where Dak comes in at because of the McCarthy ties, but that's very expensive," Kaboly said.

The comments create an interesting distinction in how Pittsburgh could approach its quarterback search. Rather than bringing in a middle-tier veteran such as Mac Jones, the Steelers could decide to evaluate Drew Allar and Will Howard while considering whether an established quarterback with a stronger track record would be worth the investment.

And one name stands out because of McCarthy's history with him: Dak Prescott.

Prescott spent several seasons playing under McCarthy with the Dallas Cowboys, giving the Steelers' head coach firsthand experience with the quarterback's strengths, leadership and ability to operate an NFL offense. If Pittsburgh decides it needs a proven starter instead of handing the job to a young quarterback, that familiarity could make Prescott an especially intriguing possibility.

There is a significant obstacle. Prescott is an established franchise quarterback, and acquiring him would likely require a substantial financial commitment and potentially valuable trade compensation. Kaboly acknowledged that reality, making clear that the connection to McCarthy does not automatically make the move practical. The signal-caller signed a four-year $240 million extension not too long ago.

Steelers Must Decide Whether To Trust Allar Or Pursue A Veteran

The Steelers' quarterback situation will be one of the organization's biggest offseason storylines if Aaron Rodgers follows through on his plans to retire after the 2026 season. Pittsburgh has spent several years searching for a long-term answer since Ben Roethlisberger retired, cycling through different options while attempting to remain competitive.

That history makes the upcoming decision particularly important. Another veteran could provide immediate stability, but repeatedly searching for short-term solutions risks delaying the development of a quarterback who could become the team's long-term starter.

Allar is central to that conversation. Pittsburgh selected him in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, investing a meaningful pick in a quarterback who now has an opportunity to learn behind Rodgers. Head coach Mike McCarthy has also expressed confidence in Allar's talent, giving the Steelers reason to evaluate what he can become before committing to another expensive veteran.

Kaboly's comments suggest that signing someone like Jones would not necessarily provide enough of an upgrade to justify limiting that opportunity. If the Steelers believe Allar or Howard could eventually become the answer, allowing them to compete for the job may be more valuable than bringing in a veteran whose ceiling is uncertain.

Prescott, however, represents a different level of possibility. The Cowboys quarterback has extensive starting experience and an established history with McCarthy. That relationship could give Pittsburgh a potential advantage in evaluating whether Prescott would fit the offense and whether a reunion could work.

Still, the Steelers would have to determine whether the cost makes sense. Prescott's contract and the compensation required to acquire him could limit Pittsburgh's ability to improve other areas of the roster. The organization would also need to consider his long-term fit rather than treating a reunion with McCarthy as an automatic solution.

That distinction matters as the Steelers begin planning for life after Rodgers. The team could ultimately decide to promote Allar, bring in a less expensive veteran to compete, or explore a more aggressive move if a proven quarterback becomes available.

For now, Kaboly's assessment points toward two very different paths. Pittsburgh could give its young quarterbacks a legitimate opportunity rather than settling for a veteran it does not view as a clear upgrade. Alternatively, the Steelers could consider a major investment in Prescott if McCarthy and the front office believe he offers a better chance to compete immediately.

The financial hurdle would be significant, but the connection is undeniable. If Pittsburgh decides it cannot afford to leave the quarterback position entirely in inexperienced hands, Prescott is an intriguing name to monitor as the 2027 offseason approaches.

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