As the Pittsburgh Steelers continue gearing up towards the start of training camp, depth issues in both the quarterback and wide receiver rooms continue to be a major issue. Currently consisting of Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson and Will Howard, the Steelers' quarterback room lacks major depth and includes no veteran presence whatsoever. Former four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers continues to emerge as a top option for Pittsburgh through free agency, as Rodgers is reportedly nearing in on a decision regarding his future.
As the Steelers continue to wait for a decision from the future Hall of Fame quarterback, the team may emerge as a front runner for quarterback Carson Wentz. Wentz, who was the backup quarterback for Patrick Mahomes in 2024 in Kansas City, would instantly add major depth to a lackluster Steelers offense.
Despite a major decline in production over recent years, Wentz is an established NFL veteran who would greatly benefit from having DK Metcalf in the wide receivers room, even if Wentz would be a backup to Rudolph.
Wentz, a former Pro Bowler during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, has spent time with multiple teams over the past few seasons. Pittsburgh may prove to be a top landing spot for Wentz, as the former Eagle continues to look for a home on a new team. As speculation continues to rise amid the future of both Rodgers and Wentz, veteran reporter Ed Bouchette went on the air on 93.7 The Fan to weigh in on the situation.
"I could see them signing a guy like Carson Wentz to be the backup." Bouchette stated. "Go with those three guys - Howard, Rudolph, and Wentz and just muddle through this year. Regroup, and see what you can do next year for a quarterback."
Similar to many Pittsburgh fans across the globe, Bouchette expressed his frustration with Rodgers and his entire free agency process as a whole. Many believe the future Hall of Fame quarterback is taking far too much time to make a decision, resulting in multiple teams showing interest in other quarterback options.
As Rodgers continues to make a decision, the Steelers continue to emerge a top candidate for Wentz. Pittsburgh may turn to the talent that is already on the roster as well, as Howard could challenge Rudolph at some point if Rodgers is not present.
Howard, who was selected with the 185th pick in the sixth round of the draft last month, is a five-year college veteran who spent time at both Kansas State and Ohio State.
Howard has reportedly looked very comfortable since being drafted, as the former Ohio State quarterback was considered to be one of the top late-round steals of the draft by many. After winning a National Championship as a Buckeye in his final season at the college level, the rookie finds himself with a real shot at winning the Steelers' starting quarterback role at some point if Rodgers retires and then Rudolph struggles.
Steelers' Depth At Wide Receiver Remains As A Major Issue
As the Steelers continue to address depth issues in the quarterback room, the team finds itself with similar problems in the wide receiver room as well. After trading star wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, the Steelers now have no real wide receiver depth outside of Metcalf.
Metcalf, who was acquired by Pittsburgh after a trade with the Seattle Seahawks earlier in the offseason, is expected to play a major role on the Steelers' offense in 2025. With the rest of the wide receiver room consisting of Calvin Austin lll, Roman Wilson, and Robert Woods, Pittsburgh is expected to pursue veteran depth in hopes of adding a true wide receiver two to the roster.
One name who may emerge as a top option for the Steelers is free agent wide receiver Keenan Allen. Allen, who spent the 2024 season as a member of the Chicago Bears, would instantly add a major boost in production to the Steelers' offense, and would be an elite wide receiver two behind Metcalf.
Allen, a six time Pro Bowler, adds elite speed and playmaking ability to any team lucky enough to sign the veteran. The Steelers may elect to evaluate the talent already in the receiver room as well, as both Austin lll and Wilson continue to shine throughout the offseason.
