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What if the man in the dark remains there?
On April 22nd, Steelers GM Omar Khan and HC Mike Tomlin sat with the media for their pre-draft press conference. It’s rare for a front office to speak in definitive terms, but Khan essentially guaranteed the Steelers would add two more quarterbacks before the season. As we currently stand, the Steelers have three quarterbacks on their roster. The latest addition coming from the draft is Ohio State signal-caller Will Howard, who was selected in the sixth round.
The long-awaited decision of Aaron Rodgers is still looming. Tea leaves signal he could join the organization sooner rather than later, but if we’re going to pretend to know when or if he’s coming, we’re fooling ourselves. What if he backs out? If that’s the case, they’ll still have to add an arm. Here are a few options.
Will Levis, Tennessee Titans
Levis is now relegated to the backup role in Tennessee following the Titans’ selection of Cam Ward with the first overall pick in the draft. He was given two seasons to prove himself as the long-term starter, but struggled mightily with turnovers. Last year, he threw just 13 TDs to 12 INTs in 12 starts – and was benched for, you guessed it, Mason Rudolph.
But Levis still has some big-time tools. He’s 6’4, 230 lbs. – So, he’s built for the AFC North. His arm is generally regarded as above average. My guess is it wouldn’t take much to pry him from the Titans, who clearly won’t factor him into their plans.
Although I think it’s slim to none, there is a recent history of players who struggled early in their careers and turned it around. Sam Darnold is an example.
Derek Carr, New Orleans Saints
Carr is dealing with a serious shoulder injury, which makes him a long shot to play early in the 2025 season. This is a similar case to the one above, because the Saints drafted Louisville QB Tyler Shough in the second round, leading most to believe that Carr’s time in the Big Easy has come to an end.
Over the past two seasons, he’s been decent when healthy. He’s thrown 40 TDs to just 13 INTs and has the experience to step in if needed in a pinch.
Once again, I understand what you’re probably thinking. Why the heck would the Steelers bring in an injured veteran like Carr? Well, the world isn’t exactly their oyster when it comes to adding to that room. It’s slim pickings, and Carr is an option who can provide veteran experience.
Kirk Cousins, Atlanta Falcons
This feels like the obvious choice here, as if Rodgers does spurn the black and gold. Cousins is probably their next best option in terms of winning football games. The Falcons are open to trade calls, but Cousins would have to waive his no-trade clause. I’d anticipate that would be an easy decision, given he’s currently the backup. Money wouldn’t be a huge issue for the Steelers, as the Falcons are on the hook for 27.5 million of his salary next year.
Adam Schefter recently reported that the Falcons asked trade partners to eat 20 million in a potential Cousins deal. That’d end the conversations pretty quickly.
If Levis or Carr were brought in, I’d expect Mason Rudolph to be the day one starter.
However, if it’s Cousins, I’d anticipate he’d get the nod given his age and the compensation it’d take to get him.
What are your thoughts on these names? Let us know in the comments section!