Steelers Consider Sam Darnold as Potential Quarterback for 2025 Season

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — As the NFL offseason approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers are weighing their options for the quarterback position. Following a disappointing end to the previous season, insiders suggest they may heavily pursue Sam Darnold as a potential addition.

Analyst John Kosko highlighted Darnold as a viable candidate for the Steelers, asserting that the team remains one of the most stable organizations in the league. “Among the quarterback-needy teams this offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers stand out as one of the NFL’s most stable organizations,” Kosko noted. “Mike Tomlin, the league’s longest-tenured head coach, has never had a losing season. Despite recent offensive struggles, Tomlin consistently finds ways to win, which could boost any quarterback stepping into the role.”

Darnold, who had his best seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, threw for 35 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, boasting a completion percentage of 66 while amassing 4,319 yards last season. However, his performance in the final two games raised questions about his market value, making him a more realistic option for the Steelers.

“The last two games of the season likely tanked Darnold’s value,” Kosko added. “What was looking like a lucrative contract seems less likely now, which could put him in the Steelers’ range. The question remains whether they would be willing to commit to him, given his limitations against top-tier competition.”

With just over $53 million in cap space available this offseason, the Steelers must address several roster issues, including a glaring need at wide receiver. The team could explore opportunities in free agency, especially as top targets like Chris Godwin become available. “Pittsburgh’s biggest offseason question is what it plans to do at the quarterback position,” said Tyler Brooke of The 33rd Team. “Regardless of how they resolve the quarterback situation, adding more offensive firepower is essential. With over $40 million in cap space and successful draft picks, they have several options to build around.”

Godwin, 28, was among the NFL’s leading receivers from 2019 to 2023, recording 436 catches for 5,323 yards and 26 touchdowns. Although his 2024 season was cut short by an ankle injury, he was on pace for a stellar year with 576 yards and five touchdowns in just seven games.

“The lack of firepower on the rest of the Steelers’ offense has allowed opponents to shut down their No. 1 option,” Brooke explained. “Pairing Godwin with George Pickens could alleviate some pressure and lead to a more explosive offense.”

As the Steelers continue to consider their options, the uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position looms large. Whether they pursue Darnold, explore a reunion with Russell Wilson, or consider other candidates like Aaron Rodgers, the franchise’s decision could significantly impact their playoff aspirations going forward.

With free agency beginning on March 10 at noon ET, the Steelers will need to act quickly as they shape their roster for the upcoming season. In the meantime, anticipation builds as fans await decisions that could reshape the team’s offense.