The NFL continues to deliver surprises. Just days before free agency kicks off on March 7, the Las Vegas Raiders and Seattle Seahawks completed a major quarterback trade, sending Geno Smith to Las Vegas in exchange for a third-round pick. This move could have significant ripple effects for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Earlier in the afternoon—before this unexpected trade disrupted quarterback projections—Pittsburgh Post-Gazette insider Gerry Dulac reported that the Steelers were seriously considering looking beyond their current roster for their next starting quarterback. Dulac named free agents like Aaron Rodgers and Sam Darnold as potential targets, especially if the team fails to reach an agreement with Justin Fields or Russell Wilson before the free agency frenzy begins on Monday, March 10.
However, the Smith trade may have complicated Pittsburgh’s plans.
Steelers Maintain Interest in Fields and Wilson Amid QB Market Shake-Up
Following the Raiders’ move, FOX Sports NFL insider Jordan Schultz provided a fresh update on Pittsburgh’s quarterback situation, which echoed discussions from earlier in the offseason.
“Sources: The Steelers have maintained an open dialogue with both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, with the hopes of retaining one,” Schultz reported on X. He added that both quarterbacks are drawing interest from other teams—the New York Jets are reportedly the most interested in Fields, while the New York Giants, who are exploring several quarterback options including Aaron Rodgers, have been in discussions about Wilson.
Schultz noted, “I think Fields is wise to explore his options while waiting for clarity on the Steelers’ plans regarding Wilson. As of yesterday, some key figures still weren’t sure of Pittsburgh’s direction.”
Seahawks Eyeing Sam Darnold, Limiting Steelers’ QB Options
With the Raiders out of the quarterback hunt, one might expect the Steelers to have more flexibility. However, the Seahawks could present a new challenge for Pittsburgh’s pursuit of Darnold.
“There’s growing belief around the league that Sam Darnold could end up in Seattle as a secondary move following the Geno Smith trade,” Sports Illustrated NFL insider Albert Breer reported. “We’ll see if it happens, but such a move would trigger further domino effects.”
The Athletic’s Dianna Russini also weighed in, noting that Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak previously coached Darnold, which could make Seattle an appealing destination for him.
“Seattle may be willing to offer Darnold a three-year contract, which is what he’s seeking in his next deal,” Russini added.
That detail is crucial for Pittsburgh. Would the Steelers commit to a three-year deal worth around $45 million per season for Darnold? Given their typical approach, that seems unlikely—especially considering potential competition from the Minnesota Vikings, who could also be looking to sign him.
This lack of strong interest from Pittsburgh could explain why discussions between the Steelers and Darnold have only started gaining traction now.
Steelers Facing Uncertain QB Future
The Steelers have been negotiating with Fields’ representatives for some time, but there’s growing concern that if a deal hasn’t materialized yet, it may never happen.
As free agency nears, Pittsburgh finds itself in a precarious position, with limited options and increased competition in the quarterback market.
Leave a Reply