The Pittsburgh Steelers could find themselves in need of a new quarterback this offseason, with both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields set to hit the open market as unrestricted free agents. While the team is expected to discuss potential contract extensions with both signal-callers, there is no guarantee that either will return. Given the competitive nature of the quarterback market, both Wilson and Fields are likely to receive offers from other teams, making their futures in Pittsburgh uncertain.
With the possibility of losing both quarterbacks, the Steelers need a contingency plan in place. According to recent reports, one potential option for the team is former New York Giants starter Daniel Jones, who could become a target for Pittsburgh in free agency.
Steelers Reportedly Considering Daniel Jones as a Free Agent Option
Rumors surrounding the Steelers’ potential quarterback targets have been swirling, and one name that has surfaced is Daniel Jones. According to Andrew Fillipponi of 93.7 The Fan, there are individuals within the Steelers’ organization who believe Jones could be a viable option if Wilson and Fields depart.
“Source: There’s interest in former Giants QB Daniel Jones inside the Steelers organization,” Fillipponi posted on X.
Quote: “[The Steelers] could do a lot worse than Jones.”
The report suggests that head coach Mike Tomlin appreciates quarterbacks who offer mobility, a trait Jones possesses. Additionally, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith may view Jones as a potential fit for his system.
However, Jones’ recent performance raises questions. After being benched and released by the Giants midway through the 2024 season, he joined the Minnesota Vikings, where he spent the rest of the year as a backup and practice squad quarterback. Before his departure from New York, Jones struggled as the Giants’ starter, posting a 2-8 record in 2024 while throwing for 2,070 yards with an 8-7 touchdown-to-interception ratio.
Despite his recent setbacks, Jones has had moments of success. As the Giants’ starter from 2019 to 2024, his most notable season came in 2022, when he led the team to a playoff berth and helped secure a victory in the Wild Card Round. That campaign was the lone winning season of his tenure in New York.
Concerns Over Jones’ Durability and Fit in Pittsburgh
One of the biggest red flags surrounding Jones is his injury history, which has hindered his ability to stay on the field consistently. If the Steelers pursue Jones, they will need to carefully evaluate whether he can remain healthy over the course of a full season.
Despite these concerns, some believe Jones could thrive in Arthur Smith’s offensive scheme, which has traditionally relied on quarterbacks with mobility. However, there have been reports of tension between Smith and Wilson during the 2024 season, which could push Wilson to explore other opportunities elsewhere. If Wilson departs, the Steelers may turn to a low-risk, high-upside quarterback like Jones rather than committing to an expensive free-agent deal.
Steelers Could Face Competition for Jones from AFC North Rival
The Steelers are reportedly not the only team interested in Daniel Jones this offseason. According to multiple reports, the Cleveland Browns have also been linked to the quarterback, meaning Pittsburgh could face competition if they decide to make a move for him.
Jones’ tenure in New York was widely viewed as a disappointment, but that hasn’t stopped teams from considering him as a potential reclamation project. The interest in Jones could reflect the lack of quality options in this year’s quarterback market rather than overwhelming confidence in his ability to turn things around.
However, the NFL has seen several quarterbacks find success after moving to new teams. Recent examples include Geno Smith, Baker Mayfield, and Sam Darnold, all of whom struggled early in their careers before finding success in different situations. If Jones lands in the right environment, there’s a chance he could follow a similar late-career resurgence.
For now, the Steelers’ quarterback situation remains uncertain, but with Wilson and Fields potentially on the move, Daniel Jones could emerge as a legitimate option for Pittsburgh as they evaluate their future under center.
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