Schefter: Steelers Could Pull Off Massive Trade For Starting Quarterback

The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2026 offseason once again facing uncertainty at the quarterback position. A 42-year old Aaron Rodgers delivered a strong performance in 2025, and Pittsburgh has clear interest in bringing him back for what would be his 22nd NFL season. Still, retirement remains a real possibility, leaving the front office preparing contingency plans. If Rodgers walks away, the Steelers could explore free agency, the draft, or the trade market to find their next starter. One respected NFL insider has suggested Pittsburgh may pursue a deal for an established starting quarterback to remain competitive immediately.

Since future Hall of Famer Ben Roethlisberger retired following the 2021 season, the Steelers have dealt with a revolving door at quarterback. Pittsburgh has rolled through six different starters during that stretch, searching for stability at the most important position on the field. Rodgers has easily provided the highest level of play among that group, giving the offense a much-needed boost and leading the Steelers to an AFC North title in 2025.

However, even if Rodgers returns for the 2026 campaign, it would be a short-term solution in what would likely be his final year in the league, meaning the team could soon find itself back in the same uncertain situation a year from now. Pursuing a younger quarterback with long-term upside might be worth the risk, and two NFL teams might be willing to part ways with their signal callers.

The Miami Dolphins and Arizona Cardinals also head into the 2026 offseason facing uncertainty under center, though their situations look a little different. Each team have a former top-five draft pick at quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa and Kyler Murray, yet, questions about long-term direction could push both teams toward major changes.

If either organization decides to reset and explore trade options, it could create an opportunity for a quarterback-needy contender to strike. That’s where the Steelers may come into play, potentially positioning themselves to pursue a proven starter who still has upside and could stabilize the position for years to come.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter recently discussed the quarterback outlooks in both Miami and Arizona, noting that Pittsburgh could emerge as a potential landing spot if either Tagovailoa or Murray becomes available on the trade market.

"The Dolphins would like to explore trading Tua Tagovailoa; ditto for the Cardinals and Kyler Murray -- but it remains unclear whether a deal for either quarterback is feasible given the financial hurdles for an acquiring team," Schefter said. There certainly are expected to be a handful of teams in the quarterback-acquiring market -- a list that could include the New York Jets, Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings as well as the Dolphins and Cardinals."

The biggest question regarding a potential trade for Tagovailoa or Murray has to do with their contracts, like Schefter mentioned. Both quarterbacks are still under contracts with massive extensions taking place just a few seasons ago, certainly making it difficult to find a trade partner.

If the Steelers look to make a move for either quarterback, they would likely need to be comfortable taking on a significant financial commitment while also parting with valuable draft capital. A deal for a proven starter rarely comes cheap, and Pittsburgh could be looking at giving up multiple draft picks along with absorbing a large salary cap hit. That said, the organization has never been afraid to be aggressive when it believes the roster is close to competing for championships.

From a football standpoint, both Tagovailoa and Murray would bring different strengths to the Steelers offense. Tagovailoa thrives on quick decisions and accuracy in the short and intermediate game. Murray, on the other hand, offers elite athleticism and the ability to extend plays, something the Steelers offense has lacked at times in recent seasons. Either option would give the team a younger quarterback with multiple years of potential production ahead.

Yes, the money would be a challenge, and yes, the draft compensation could be steep, but if the Steelers truly believe they are only a quarterback away from being a consistent Super Bowl contender again, the risk might be worth it. 

A long-term solution at quarterback could provide stability the franchise has been searching for since Roethlisberger’s retirement. While nothing is guaranteed, making a bold move could finally put an end to the revolving door under center and give Pittsburgh a clear direction moving forward.

Steelers Could Provide Tagovailoa Or Murray A Fresh Start

Although Tagovailoa and Murray have had their share of rough moments on the field so far in their careers, it may be beneficial for each of them to wear a different uniform. 

A change of scenery can often reignite a player’s confidence and give them a fresh perspective, as we’ve seen with quarterbacks like Sam Darnold, who thrived after joining a new team and finding a system that suited his strengths. Both Tagovailoa and Murray could benefit from new coaching, teammates, and playbooks that better fit their skills, potentially unlocking the consistency they’ve struggled to achieve.

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