Deciding the future of their quarterback position is a priority for the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason. The importance of this decision is underscored by the success of teams with standout quarterbacks in the NFL postseason, particularly in the AFC.
The list of top quarterbacks includes Kansas City's Patrick Mahomes, Baltimore's Lamar Jackson, Buffalo's Josh Allen, and Houston's C.J. Stroud. Each has had impressive seasons or been recognized as MVPs or All-Pros. Notably, these players were not all selected early in their respective drafts.
The Steelers face discussions at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex involving team president Art Rooney II, head coach Mike Tomlin, and general manager Omar Khan. "We don't have a quarterback under contract and so we've got some major discussions there," said Tomlin. He noted that they are open to considering their current roster but acknowledged much work lies ahead.
There is speculation that the Steelers might continue with Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and Kyle Allen in 2025. Last season, Wilson and Fields combined for 3,264 passing yards with 21 touchdowns and six interceptions. However, despite winning ten games in 2024, it wasn't enough for postseason success.
In contrast to AFC star quarterbacks like Mahomes and Jackson, NFC teams such as Detroit with Jared Goff and Philadelphia with Jalen Hurts have built strong supporting casts around their quarterbacks.
Looking ahead to the draft, the Steelers hold eight picks including notable first-rounder Troy Fautanu who missed most of last season due to injury but is expected to return strong.
T.J. Watt remains a crucial player for the Steelers' defense despite being heavily targeted by opponents last season. "Teams are playing certain ways with chips and helps...I need to be more open to moving around more," said Watt regarding his strategy adjustments for next season.
Head coach Mike Tomlin emphasized Watt's consistency: "I think his resume and production speaks for itself." Despite lower sack numbers compared to previous seasons, Watt made significant impacts throughout 2024.
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