Steelers Eye Sam Darnold in Free Agency Showdown

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — The Pittsburgh Steelers are poised to turn their attention to Sam Darnold as they seek a new starting quarterback ahead of the 2025 NFL season. With the free agency period set to begin March 12, the Steelers may soon make a significant offer for the veteran quarterback, who is coming off a productive season with the Minnesota Vikings.

Reportedly, the Steelers plan to extend a contract proposal to Darnold, a pending free agent, according to NFL insider Dianna Russini. Shortly after a solid 2024 campaign, where he led the Vikings to a 14-3 record with 4,319 passing yards and 35 touchdowns, Darnold has quickly become one of the most sought-after players on the market.

“The Steelers are expected to make an offer to pending free agent Sam Darnold,” Russini stated on social media. “Many around the league believe Darnold will wind up in Seattle, but Pittsburgh is doing its due diligence on any potential options ahead of the new league year.”

As the free agency approaches, the Steelers face a dilemma. Currently, they lack a contracted starter at the quarterback position, and with Justin Fields also a candidate to explore the free agency market, they must decide whether to re-sign him or pivot toward Darnold.

Darnold’s success in 2024 raised his profile significantly. However, critics point to his previous struggles during his tenures with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, leaving some skeptics regarding his long-term viability. Darnold looked revitalized under Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell, gaining acclaim as a well-rounded QB who could adapt effectively to diverse schemes.

Considering the lofty contract expectations surrounding Darnold, which could hover around $40 million per season, the Steelers’ interest comes with high stakes. They must weigh the potential financial burden against the uncertainty tied to his past performance.

The Steelers may need to act quickly, as there are signals that the Seattle Seahawks are interested in Darnold after trading Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders. Team sources suggest he could be one of the highest-paid players in Steelers history if negotiations progress favorably.

“Pittsburgh needs to secure a competitive option quickly as the market heats up next week,” stated a source familiar with the team’s strategy. “Signing Darnold could provide them with a reliable quarterback while they groom the next franchise player.”

As the next few days unfold, the Steelers will be scrutinizing their options as they look to solidify their quarterback situation for the 2025 season.