The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to face uncertainty regarding their quarterback prospects heading into the 2026 league year, with no clear long-term answer emerging. While veteran Aaron Rodgers remains a potential option if he chooses to return to the Steel City, discussions with General Manager Omar Khan are ongoing, leaving the situation unresolved. Should Rodgers decide not to take the field in 2026, Pittsburgh may explore alternative routes to fill the quarterback position.
Despite some excitement around rookie Will Howard, the former sixth-round pick has yet to appear in a professional game and missed the entire 2025 preseason. Relying solely on Howard at this stage would be premature given his lack of experience and uncertain readiness. The Steelers might also consider free agency options such as Malik Willis, but recent years have demonstrated Khan’s willingness to engage actively in the trade market.
Trade Market Potential: Could Mac Jones Be the Steelers’ Next Target?
The name of Mac Jones, currently a backup quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, has surfaced as a possible trade acquisition for the Steelers. Jones’s status with San Francisco is complicated by his impending large contract in 2027 free agency, which would require the 49ers to receive significant compensation if they trade him—likely at least a third-round draft pick or more.
John Lynch, the 49ers’ General Manager, expressed during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine that the team values Jones highly and isn’t eager to trade him without an outstanding offer. Lynch stated,
“He’s really good for us and we value that. And so somebody would have to come with something fairly strong for us to consider (trading him). And then I don’t know what we do. Obviously there’s always something that would make you (do it), but I think we’re a better team with him on it and we just like having him around.”
This stance implies that the Steelers would need to assemble a compelling package to convince San Francisco to part ways with Jones.
Jones demonstrated strong performance when filling in for Brock Purdy during the 2025 season, enhancing his value and suggesting he could provide Pittsburgh with a competent short-term solution if acquired. However, Lynch’s willingness to hold onto Jones for now means any trade talks will be challenging.
Possible Trade Dynamics and Steelers’ Strategy Moving Forward
The Steelers’ ability to negotiate a trade for Mac Jones will likely depend on Aaron Rodgers’s decision about his playing future. If Rodgers opts not to return or seeks to play elsewhere, Pittsburgh could become a leading contender to pursue Jones, especially given their substantial 2026 draft capital. This scenario would provide the Steelers a one-year evaluation window with Jones before any long-term commitments are necessary.
John Lynch had previously expected Jones to remain with the 49ers for the 2026 season, but his recent remarks indicate an openness to potential trade offers, which could invite competition from franchises prepared to offer above market value. For the Steelers, this development adds a layer of complexity but also opportunity, particularly if Rodgers steps away from the offense.
Ongoing Quarterback Search Keeps Steelers Engaged in Active Discussions
As the offseason unfolds, the Steelers will remain connected to a range of quarterback prospects, understanding the urgency to resolve their depth chart at the position. Although Mac Jones might be a surprising option, his revived career with San Francisco positions him as a viable candidate. Pittsburgh’s interest highlights the team’s persistent effort to find a reliable signal-caller to stabilize the franchise’s offense in the near future.
#49ers GM John Lynch on QB Mac Jones:
"He's really good for us and we value that. And so somebody would have to come with something fairly strong for us to consider (trading him). And then I don't know what we do. Obviously there's always something that would make you (do it),…
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) February 24, 2026
