Could Kyler Murray Be the Answer to the Steelers’ Quarterback Puzzle?
It’s been a familiar theme in Pittsburgh over the last few years: a new season, another spin on the quarterback carousel. Since Ben Roethlisberger hung up his cleats, the Steelers have been searching for stability under center-and so far, they haven’t found it. With the 2026 draft class looking thin at quarterback and Aaron Rodgers possibly stepping away from the game, the Steelers might be staring down another offseason of uncertainty at the game’s most important position.
But that uncertainty could come with opportunity. Because out in Arizona, things just got interesting.
Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon recently confirmed that Kyler Murray will not return this season. Officially, it’s a lingering foot injury that’s sidelined him.
But unofficially? This feels like the clearest signal yet that Arizona is preparing to move on.
And if that’s the case, Pittsburgh should be paying close attention.
A Potential Fit in Pittsburgh
Let’s be clear-Kyler Murray hasn’t been the model of consistency in Arizona. He’s flashed brilliance at times, playing at a top-10 level when everything clicks.
But there have been stretches of erratic play, and injuries have been a recurring issue. Still, the talent is undeniable.
He’s got the arm, the mobility, and the instincts to change a game, and that’s something the Steelers haven’t had at quarterback in a while.
Pittsburgh is likely to find itself picking in the middle of the first round again in 2026, which is a tough spot for landing a franchise quarterback. The elite prospects are often gone by the time you're on the clock, and reaching for a second-tier guy can set a team back even further. So if the Steelers want to stay competitive now-not three years from now-trading for a proven starter might be their best shot.
And Murray, for all his ups and downs, still qualifies as that.
Timing Could Be Everything
Gannon’s announcement doesn’t just put the spotlight on Murray’s future-it also impacts his trade value. By essentially confirming that Murray’s season is over, the Cardinals may have tipped their hand. It’s no secret they’re preparing to move on, and that gives Arizona far less leverage in trade talks.
If the Cardinals are motivated to deal him, the price tag might not be as steep as you’d expect for a former No. 1 overall pick. There’s even a scenario where Arizona cuts ties altogether if they can’t find a trade partner-a long shot, but not impossible given the contract and the optics of the situation.
For the Steelers, this could be an opportunity to land a high-upside quarterback without mortgaging the future.
A Win-Now Window That’s Closing Fast
This isn’t just about finding a quarterback. It’s about timing.
The Steelers still have a core of veterans who can compete-especially on defense. But that window won’t stay open forever.
If Pittsburgh drafts a rookie and waits for him to develop, they risk wasting the prime years of their current roster. That’s a tough sell in a city where expectations never really dip, no matter who’s under center.
If Rodgers does decide to retire, it only adds to the urgency. The AFC will still be stacked, but the path to the playoffs could open up just enough for a team like Pittsburgh to make a run-if they have the right quarterback in place.
Kyler Murray might not be the perfect solution, but he could be the best one available. And for a franchise that’s been stuck in QB limbo for too long, that’s worth exploring.
At the very least, the Steelers should be on the phone.