Steelers Face Quarterback Conundrum
The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves deep in contemplation mode as they navigate an offseason filled with uncertainty. After a disappointing playoff exit courtesy of the Baltimore Ravens, the Steelers are wrestling with a major predicament: not having a single quarterback under contract, leaving a void that demands immediate attention.
Skylar Thompson: A New Face in Pittsburgh
Recently, the Steelers added some experience to their roster by bringing in Skylar Thompson. A veteran quarterback, Thompson was originally a seventh-round pick by the Miami Dolphins in 2022. His modest tenure in Miami saw him stepping up as a substitute when Tua Tagovailoa was sidelined with a concussion. With a completion rate of 58.7% and a passer rating of 66.1, Thompson offers Pittsburgh a reliable, though not game-changing, option as they evaluate their quarterback pool.
Interestingly enough, the team's courtship of Thompson signals a need for steadiness but also reinforces the notion of exploring broader horizons. “We are certainly open to considering those [existing] guys," Mike Tomlin stated, acknowledging the significance of the quarterbacks who were on the Steelers’ roster during the past season.
Major Decisions on the Horizon
On a broader scale, the Steelers are assessing potential suitors both in free agency and the upcoming draft. Former star acquisitions Russell Wilson and Justin Fields are both poised to hit the free-agent market, which could offer the team intriguing opportunities for robust competition come next season. As Tomlin sums it up, “The process will involve understanding 'what their options truly are and analyzing what the field looks like in terms of both free agency and the draft.’”
Additionally, the contract of Kyle Allen, another component of the Steelers’ quarterback equation, is expiring, further complicating their decision-making landscape. This leaves management in a strategic tug-of-war, balancing veteran expertise and the fresh energy a younger quarterback can bring along with the inherent risks.
What Lies Ahead?
All eyes are on how the Steelers will navigate this quarterback conundrum. With the front office diligently weighing their possibilities, Steelers fans are eager for answers. Tomlin candidly admits, “We don't have a quarterback under contract and so we've got some major discussions there.” This offseason, more than any before, could redefine the team's quarterback position and, ultimately, its prospects for the next NFL season.