The Pittsburgh Steelers have been connected to every major quarterback that was anticipated to become available during the 2024 offseason.
Fans had begun to feel optimistic that perhaps things would get better at quarterback for the squad next season.
It appears that any changes to the role will need to originate within the company.
Sources told Mike DeFabo of The Athletic that even if the Broncos decide to part ways with the nine-time Pro Bowler, the Steelers won’t be pursuing Russell Wilson.
“A source familiar with the coaching staff’s feelings toward the quarterback at this stage of his career told The Athletic that the Steelers are not interested in signing Wilson in the likely event that he is released by the Denver Broncos.”
Additionally, according to sources close to The Athletic, they will not pursue Baker Mayfield, Kirk Cousins, or Justin Fields in the summer.
Additionally, league sources informed The Athletic’s Dianna Russini that Pittsburgh is not one of the clubs aggressively trying to trade for Fields. League sources also claim that Pittsburgh is not interested in free agents Kirk Cousins or Baker Mayfield.
In the event that none of these prominent quarterbacks are selected by the Steelers, Pittsburgh will once again be led by Kenny Pickett.
Steelers’ Expectations for Pickett
In the first two years of his career, Pickett has not lived up to expectations.
In 24 starts over those two years, he has only been accountable for 17 touchdowns, and as a quarterback, his touchdown-to-interception ratio is 1:1.
Even still, it appears that the team is optimistic about his future success now that they have upgraded the offensive line this offseason and given him a stronger offensive coach.
It has already been reported that Arthur Smith’s meeting with Pickett went well.
During his press conference at the NFL Combine, the team’s general manager also had some encouraging things to say about Pickett.
Khan remarked, “He has shown us some good things.” It goes without saying that the offense had some problems. I’m looking forward to seeing how Arthur Smith will influence him. Arthur has a lot of hope for Kenny.
In order to avoid missing their targets in 2024, the Steelers will need to hope that their optimism pays off.
This Offseason, a Backup QB Will Be Important
The Steelers’ choice of a backup quarterback this offseason will be much more crucial if Pickett stays as their starting quarterback.
Mason Rudolph was the one who ultimately guided the squad on a three-game winning streak in 2023 to guarantee a postseason berth.
In 2024, they might find themselves going back to whatever their backup is.
Despite their quarterback play, the team has managed to compile a winning record over the last two seasons.
They might have to make a significant choice in the middle of the year if that turns out to be the case once more in 2024.
They will require a solid backup plan in case they have to make that decision. Pickett’s replacement should be someone they can trust.
With the chance to re-sign Rudolph and the availability of free agents like Ryan Tannehill and Gardner Minshew, they have some strong alternatives.
If the Steelers want to start 2024 with Pickett at quarterback, they just need to make sure they acquire the best backup.
If they don’t, they might have another season where they’re too talented to acquire a draft pick that could help them sign with a team but is not good enough to win a playoff game QB
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