Should The Steelers Trade For An NFC Quarterback? A Bold Prediction.

Omar Yusuf

4 min read

Post on May 22, 2025

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Evaluating the Steelers' Current Quarterback Situation

Analyzing Kenny Pickett's Performance and Potential

Kenny Pickett, the Steelers' 2022 first-round pick, showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season. However, consistency remains a key area for improvement.

• Strengths: Pocket presence, arm strength, and occasional improvisational ability.
• Weaknesses: Inconsistency in decision-making, accuracy under pressure, and occasional tendency to hold onto the ball too long.
• Statistics: While his completion percentage and touchdown numbers were respectable for a rookie, his interception rate needs significant improvement.
• Potential: Pickett possesses the physical tools and potential to become a franchise quarterback, but his development will be crucial. His ceiling is high, but significant strides are needed. He's a young Steelers quarterback still learning the ropes of the NFL.

The question remains: Can he reach his full potential quickly enough to satisfy the Steelers' Super Bowl aspirations? This is a key factor in assessing whether a trade for a proven NFC quarterback is necessary.

Assessing the Depth Chart Behind Pickett

The Steelers' backup quarterback situation is equally concerning. The lack of a proven, reliable backup behind Pickett presents a significant risk.

• Current Backups: The current backup quarterbacks lack significant starting experience and have yet to consistently demonstrate the ability to lead the team to victory.
• Experience Gap: The team needs a quarterback with proven NFL experience who can step in seamlessly if Pickett suffers an injury. This current lack of depth could severely jeopardize the team’s playoff chances.
• Need for Reliability: A dependable backup provides insurance against injuries and allows for flexibility in game planning.

Identifying Potential NFC Quarterbacks Available via Trade

Profiling Top NFC Quarterbacks Who Might Be Available

Several NFC quarterbacks could potentially become available via trade, depending on team needs and roster shakeups. While specific names are subject to change based on offseason developments, teams undergoing rebuilds often make their quarterbacks available. We’ll speculate on potential players based on current NFL rumors.

• [Specific QB Name 1]: (Include strengths, weaknesses, contract status, and potential trade value. Consider age, performance history, and injury history). Rumored to be on the trade block due to…
• [Specific QB Name 2]: (Include strengths, weaknesses, contract status, and potential trade value. Consider age, performance history, and injury history). Could be a viable trade option if…

Evaluating the Trade Costs and Potential Draft Pick Implications

Acquiring a top-tier NFC quarterback comes at a significant cost.

• Draft Picks: Expect to surrender multiple high draft picks, potentially impacting the Steelers' long-term rebuilding efforts.
• Players: The Steelers may need to include valuable players in any trade package, further depleting their roster.
• Salary Cap: The salary cap implications must be carefully considered, potentially limiting the team's ability to improve other positions. Signing a big-name quarterback will impact the budget for many years to come.

Analyzing the Pros and Cons of a Steelers Trade for an NFC Quarterback

Potential Benefits

• Immediate Upgrade: A proven NFC quarterback offers an immediate upgrade at a crucial position, significantly improving the Steelers' chances of winning games and making the playoffs.
• Increased Playoff Chances: A superior quarterback directly translates to a higher likelihood of playoff success.
• Improved Team Morale: Acquiring a high-profile quarterback can boost team morale and create a more positive atmosphere.

Potential Drawbacks

• High Trade Cost: The cost of acquiring a top quarterback can be prohibitive, potentially hindering the team's long-term development.
• Salary Cap Constraints: A substantial contract will impact the Steelers' ability to address other roster needs.
• Disruption of Team Chemistry: Adding a new quarterback can disrupt team dynamics and require a period of adjustment.
• Trade Failure: The risk of the trade not panning out is ever-present; the new quarterback might not perform as expected.

Conclusion: Should the Steelers Pull the Trigger on an NFC Quarterback Trade?

The decision of whether the Steelers should trade for an NFC quarterback is complex. While the potential benefits, including an immediate upgrade and increased playoff chances, are significant, the high trade costs and potential drawbacks cannot be overlooked. Our bold prediction is that the Steelers are unlikely to make such a trade this year, prioritizing the development of Kenny Pickett and addressing other roster needs. However, if Pickett fails to show significant improvement, a trade in the future cannot be ruled out. The risks are high, but so are the potential rewards. What do you think? Should the Steelers trade for an NFC quarterback? Let us know your thoughts on a potential Steelers trade for an NFC quarterback in the comments below!