Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh Steelers Eye Mac Jones as Potential Quarterback Solution
12/18/2025, 10:33:56 PM
Current Quarterback Situation
The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing uncertainty at the quarterback position as Aaron Rodgers, 42, has indicated that the 2025 NFL season may be his last. Currently, the Steelers hold an 8-6 record and are competing for a playoff spot, but if Rodgers retires, the team will need to seek a new starting quarterback for the 2026 season. The Steelers are likely to explore options in free agency or through trades, as they currently possess the No. 20 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which may not be sufficient to secure a top-tier quarterback.
Potential Trade Target: Mac Jones
ESPN's Dan Graziano has identified Mac Jones, the backup quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, as a potential trade target for the Steelers. Jones, 27, has revitalized his career this season, completing nearly 70% of his passes for 2,151 yards, 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions across ten games. His performance has drawn attention, and if the 49ers decide to trade him, the Steelers could be among the teams interested in acquiring him. Jones is under contract for $2.8 million next season, but his value may increase if he is traded to a team where he would compete for a starting role.
Steelers' Trade Considerations
The Steelers' interest in Jones hinges on several factors, including their assessment of current quarterbacks Mason Rudolph and Will Howard, both of whom are under contract. If the Steelers opt for a reset, potentially influenced by head coach Mike Tomlin's future, they may prioritize drafting a rookie quarterback instead of pursuing a trade for Jones. Conversely, if Tomlin remains and the team aims for immediate competitiveness, acquiring Jones could be a viable option, provided they view him as a significant upgrade over their current roster.
Criticism of Other Options
While the Steelers may explore various quarterbacks, there is skepticism regarding Tua Tagovailoa, the Miami Dolphins' quarterback, who has faced criticism for his performance and injury history. Analysts suggest that Tagovailoa's limitations, including durability concerns and decision-making issues, make him an unsuitable candidate for the Steelers. Instead, the focus remains on securing a more reliable option, such as Jones.
Conclusion
As the Steelers navigate their quarterback situation, the potential retirement of Aaron Rodgers looms large. With Mac Jones emerging as a promising trade target, the Steelers must weigh their options carefully. The decisions made in the offseason will significantly impact the team's trajectory as they seek to establish stability at the quarterback position for the future.
