The Pittsburgh Steelers are at a crossroads when it comes to their quarterback position, and General Manager Omar Khan has made it clear that the front office is fully committed to finding a solution. After a season of inconsistency at the most crucial position, Khan recently spoke about the team’s strategy to fix the issue and ensure stability under center.
Evaluating the Current Options
The Steelers entered the 2024 offseason with more questions than answers at quarterback. Kenny Pickett, the team’s 2022 first-round pick, struggled with injuries and inconsistent play, while veteran Mason Rudolph provided a spark late in the season but remains an uncertain long-term option. Khan acknowledged the challenges, stating that while both quarterbacks have shown flashes, the Steelers must explore all possibilities to improve.
“We’re always going to look at every avenue to get better,” Khan said. “The quarterback position is no different.”
Exploring Free Agency and Trade Market
One major aspect of Khan’s strategy is considering external options. With a strong free-agent class and a few high-profile quarterbacks potentially available via trade, the Steelers could make a significant move. Khan didn’t name specific targets, but the team has been linked to names like Justin Fields, Kirk Cousins, and possibly even a veteran bridge option like Ryan Tannehill.
“We have the resources, and we’re going to be smart about how we use them,” Khan emphasized. “We want to be competitive right away, and we’ll make the moves necessary to put ourselves in the best position.”
NFL Draft Considerations
The Steelers also hold a valuable draft pick, and some analysts believe they could target a quarterback in the first or second round. While Pittsburgh may not be in a position to land a top-tier prospect like Caleb Williams or Drake Maye, they could consider players like J.J. McCarthy or Michael Penix Jr. if they fall within range.
Khan reiterated that the Steelers aren’t ruling out drafting a quarterback, but it would have to be the right fit.
“We believe in building through the draft, and if the opportunity presents itself, we’ll take a serious look,” he noted.
Commitment to Offensive Improvements
Beyond just finding a quarterback, Khan emphasized that the Steelers need to create a better offensive environment for whoever is under center. That includes improving the offensive line, bolstering the receiver group, and making sure the system maximizes the quarterback’s strengths.
“We have to put our guy in a position to succeed,” Khan said. “That means everything from play-calling to protection has to be at a high level.”
A Defining Offseason for Pittsburgh
With the AFC North becoming increasingly competitive, the Steelers understand that getting their quarterback situation right is the key to staying relevant. Whether through a trade, free agency, or the draft, Khan’s approach signals an aggressive yet calculated strategy to ensure Pittsburgh has a reliable leader at the helm in 2025.
Steelers fans may not have to wait long to see how Khan’s plan unfolds, as quarterback dominoes could start falling soon. One thing is certain—Pittsburgh won’t settle for mediocrity under center.
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