Steelers QB crossroads
Pittsburgh faces a pivotal QB decision with Aaron Rodgers’ retirement still unresolved, Kirk Cousins available in free agency, and Ty Simpson a possible draft target. (twsn.net) Reports say the Steelers previously shopped for Cousins and could revisit veteran or developmental options before the draft. (heavy.com)
NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero told The Rich Eisen Show the Steelers dialed Atlanta about trading for Kirk Cousins during the 2025 offseason, according to reporting that relayed his on‑air comments. (si.com) The Atlanta Journal‑Constitution reported the Falcons officially released Cousins on March 11, 2026 with a post–June 1 designation that produces roughly $22.5 million in dead cap in 2026 and $12.5 million in 2027. (ajc.com) Coverage aggregators and NFL reporting noted Cousins has signaled he plans to play in 2026, making him an immediately available veteran starter on the open market. (heavy.com) NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said on Good Morning Football that the Steelers expect Aaron Rodgers to give them a decision before the 2026 NFL Draft. (si.com) ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported league sources thought Rodgers would decide by mid‑March, and GM Omar Khan has publicly said the organization doesn’t expect the wait to stretch as long as last offseason. (steelersdepot.com) (bleacherreport.com) Pittsburgh holds the No. 21 overall pick in the April 23–25, 2026 draft it is hosting and currently enters the weekend with 12 selections after being awarded four compensatory picks. (steelers.com) Alabama QB Ty Simpson has climbed recent mock drafts and was listed among NFL.com’s 2026 “wild card” prospects who could shake up the board, creating a scenario where Pittsburgh would face competition if it targets a rookie signal‑caller at No. 21. (nfl.com) (steelersdepot.com) The Steelers conducted combine meetings and produced a scouting report on Simpson while other teams, including the Browns, have hosted pre‑draft visits — a timetable and competitive landscape that will shape whether Pittsburgh pursues a veteran like Cousins or a developmental option at No. 21. (si.com) (steelersdepot.com)
