3 veteran QBs who could still be the future for the Steelers

TL;DR

The Pittsburgh Steelers are considering veteran quarterbacks as potential future options, with J.J. McCarthy of the Minnesota Vikings being a key candidate. The Steelers may explore a trade for McCarthy, who could thrive with their offensive support.

Just like the last offseason, all the chatter surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers just days before the start of the NFL draft is about quarterback. Aaron Rodgers is still playing games with the team and making things dramatic about his return, Will Howard is on the team but a complete unknown at this point and the 2026 NFL draft class is filled with questions.

Pittsburgh cannot afford to usher in the Mike McCarthy era with a bad season after everything Mike Tomlin did for this team before he was essentially run out of town. With that, even if Rodgers finally comes around and signs, the Steelers might want to re-visit a trade for one of these three veterans.

J.J. McCarthy - Minnesota Vikings

There are rumors that the Vikings would be willing to part with McCarthy for a second-round pick and if this is an option, it should be a no-brainer for the Steelers to explore this. McCarthy might have soured with Minnesota, but the skills are all there, he just needs a system that protects him better with a strong offensive line and run game, both of which the Steelers can provide.

Mac Jones - San Francisco 49ers

The reason talk about trading for Mac Jones died off early in the offseason is the reported asking price in a trade. But at this point, is any price too high if he can turn this team into a winner in the playoffs? Jones is easily the best backup quarterback in the NFL and frankly a far better option than Aaron Rodgers at this point in Rodgers' career.

Anthony Richardson - Indianapolis Colts

Richardson falls into a completely different category than McCarthy or Jones. Richardson has been a bust so far in his career despite being one of the most athletic quarterbacks to ever play. His asking price would be the lowest of the three but that is all the more reason to roll the dice on him, get Rodgers back for another year and let Richardson and Howard learn for another year. Richardson could be the definition of a guy who just needs a fresh start.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: 3 veteran QBs who could still be the future for the Steelers

Q&A

What are the Steelers' options for veteran quarterbacks?

The Steelers are looking at several veteran quarterbacks, including J.J. McCarthy from the Minnesota Vikings, as potential future options.

Why might the Steelers trade for J.J. McCarthy?

The Steelers could benefit from McCarthy's skills, especially if they can provide him with a strong offensive line and run game, which he needs to succeed.

What is the current situation with Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers?

Aaron Rodgers is still uncertain about his return, leaving the Steelers to consider other quarterback options as they prepare for the upcoming NFL draft.