The Pittsburgh Steelers still do not have a starting quarterback under contract for the 2025 season. The organization is awaiting a decision from veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers as he ponders his options for his 21st season in the NFL. Rodgers is deciding between Pittsburgh and the New York Giants, while the Minnesota Vikings and retirement could also be in play. Pittsburgh reunited with former quarterback Mason Rudolph as they signed him to a two-year deal, but Rodgers is the team's number one option.
There are multiple parties awaiting a decision from Rodgers, including Pittsburgh and New York. However, the future of Rodgers also seriously affects where Russell Wilson will be playing in 2025.
The quarterback that started 11 games for Pittsburgh in 2024 seems to be the backup plan in both New York and Pittsburgh, but he can't make a decision on his future until Rodgers does. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler made an appearance on SportsCenter on Saturday, and he shared that Wilson is ready to move forward with his future.
"[Russell Wilson] is in position where he can and is ready to sign somewhere, but he appears to be the backup, number two option in both Pittsburgh and New York." Fowler said. "He's got to wait on that Rodgers domino to fall most likely. Cleveland is a wild card."
It is unclear how willing the Steelers are to bring Wilson back if Rodgers decides to go elsewhere. There has been some rumors that Wilson is not a fan of how he has been treated throughout the free agency process by Pittsburgh, as he has been the second option to multiple quarterbacks. According to Fowler's reporting, Wilson is still willing to sign.
It remains a mystery when Rodgers is going to make a decision on his future, but it will be interesting to see how long Pittsburgh will allow him to string the organization along. The Steelers need a solidified starting quarterback for the 2025 season, and they need one under contract soon.
The Steelers could make the decision to move forward with Wilson if Rodgers continues to take too long, although the organization doesn't seem to want to do that at this juncture. Another factor to consider is that Wilson has more years left in his career than Rodgers, as there is a five-year age gap between the two players. They are each two of the oldest at the position, but Pittsburgh can get more out of Wilson past the 2025 season.
Both quarterback's best days are behind them, and it is hard to gauge what each player's production might look like in 2025. There is a strong argument for Wilson being the better option as he has already played a season in Pittsburgh's system, and the addition of DK Metcalf along with George Pickens suits Wilson's game.
Steelers Would Probably Get Similar Production Out Of Both Quarterbacks
Rodgers struggled during the 2024 season, but there was a lot of turmoil within the Jets organization. Rodgers was also coming off of a serious Achilles injury, and he got better as the season went along. Wilson looked good at times during the 2024 season, but he struggled near the end as Pittsburgh ended the year on a five-game losing streak.
Both quarterbacks can still throw the ball well, while they each struggle with mobility. If Pittsburgh's offensive line can take a leap in 2025 either player should be able to produce for the offense. Metcalf and Pickens are a great wide receiver duo, and both veterans should be able to get them the ball. The Steelers need to make a decision soon, even if Rodgers continues to string them along.
What would you think about Pittsburgh giving up on Rodgers and signing Wilson?
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