The Pittsburgh Steelers remain all in on free agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but what’s the backup plan?

The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a precarious situation as they look to shore up their quarterback position. With only Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson on the roster and Aaron Rodgers still contemplating his future, the Steelers are in limbo regarding their long-term quarterback strategy. Insiders predict that if Rodgers decides against joining the Steelers, the team may pivot to trade for Atlanta Falcons' quarterback Kirk Cousins. Cousins, who had an underwhelming season in 2024, could provide a short-term solution for the Steelers. Despite his struggles last year and a lack of mobility due to a past injury, he brings experience and Pro Bowl credentials. The scenario presents a dual objective for Pittsburgh: either secure a seasoned quarterback like Cousins or invest in a younger talent through the NFL Draft if they miss out on Rodgers. The dynamic surrounding Cousins is notable; he carries a hefty contract and has a no-trade clause that complicates any potential movement. However, the Falcons appear open to dealing him, especially as they have drafted a successor in Michael Penix Jr. While the prospect of Cousins wearing a Steelers jersey might not excite every fan, he may be the best option available should Pittsburgh's pursuit of Rodgers fall through. The Steelers are keenly aware that they need a solid quarterback to remain competitive. It’s clear management wants to avoid the mistake of fielding a lackluster quarterback again, especially after past disappointments. Observers suggest that even if Rodgers signs, selecting a quarterback in the first round of the draft could still be imperative for Pittsburgh, allowing them to secure a stable future at the position. As the draft approaches, the phrase 'all options are on the table' has never felt more critical for the Steelers. The landscape for quarterbacks within the league is shifting, and as teams continue to seek the next game-changer, Pittsburgh must make strategic decisions that ensure they don’t find themselves backtracking after another poor season. The pressure is mounting, not just from the fan base but also internally, as a franchise with a rich history in the league seeks to return to its winning ways with a reliable leader under center. In analyzing the current state of Steelers' quarterback dynamics, the influence of Rodgers and Cousins are intertwined, pushing the story forward in the weeks leading up to the draft. Ultimately, only time will tell if the team can navigate this terrain successfully. This analysis has been reviewed by artificial intelligence to ensure accuracy and objectivity, aiming to provide our readers with a comprehensive understanding of the developments within the Steelers' organization.