The Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into one of their most pivotal offseasons in recent memory - and it’s not just because they need a new head coach. With Mike Tomlin stepping down, the franchise is at a crossroads, and the future at quarterback is suddenly just as uncertain.
Aaron Rodgers’ brief stint in Pittsburgh may be nearing its end, and while he hasn’t officially announced his plans for 2026, the writing’s on the wall. Steelers president Art Rooney II didn’t shy away from the reality, acknowledging that Rodgers’ decision to come to Pittsburgh was heavily influenced by Tomlin's presence. With Tomlin gone, it’s fair to question whether Rodgers will suit up for the Steelers - or anyone - next season.
That puts the quarterback situation front and center for the Steelers’ front office. What direction they take likely hinges on the kind of head coach they bring in.
If the team opts for a full reset, a rebuild could be in the cards - which would likely mean staying away from high-cost veterans and focusing on long-term development. But if the Steelers believe their roster is still built to win now, don’t be surprised if they swing big at quarterback.
One name that’s already surfacing in trade speculation? Kyler Murray.
According to a recent report, the Steelers could be eyeing a potential deal with the Arizona Cardinals to bring Murray to Pittsburgh. The logic is straightforward: the 2026 quarterback draft class isn’t particularly strong, and Murray is one of the few veteran starters who might actually be available. He’s a former No. 1 overall pick, a two-time Pro Bowler, and despite a rocky 2025 season that ended with him on injured reserve due to a foot injury, Murray still offers more upside than most of the options currently on the market.
The proposed trade package? A 2026 third-round pick and a conditional 2027 fourth-rounder that could escalate to a second-round pick depending on how much Murray plays. That’s a manageable price for a team like Pittsburgh, which is projected to have a league-high 12 picks in the 2026 draft.
Murray’s situation in Arizona has been murky. After flirting with the idea of benching him before his injury, the Cardinals now appear poised to explore trade options this offseason.
According to league sources, it’s more likely than not that Murray is on the move. And while his value may not be at its peak, he’s still just 28 years old and capable of being more than just a stopgap.
Financially, Murray’s contract - a massive $230 million deal that runs through 2028 - complicates things, but it’s not the albatross it appears to be. The Steelers wouldn’t be locked into the full deal, since there’s no guaranteed money left on his contract after 2026.
That gives them flexibility: if Murray clicks, they’ve got a long-term option. If not, they can pivot without being handcuffed.
In terms of fit, Murray could be exactly what Pittsburgh needs. This is a team that won the AFC North last season despite getting subpar quarterback play - Rodgers ranked just 23rd in Total QBR.
Murray has outperformed that mark every year he’s been healthy. With a strong defense and a solid supporting cast already in place, the Steelers wouldn’t need Murray to be Superman - just a consistent, dynamic presence under center.
Of course, there’s always the argument for drafting a young quarterback and building from the ground up. But with this year’s draft class lacking that surefire franchise guy, the Steelers might decide to skip the rookie carousel altogether and bring in a proven player who can win now and potentially grow into something more.
If that’s the route they choose, Kyler Murray could be the best option on the table.