DONE DEAL:  Pittsburgh Steelers projected to sign quarterback to $100 million contract to help reclaim dominance.

As the Pittsburgh Steelers’ season comes to a close, the focus now shifts to what promises to be a pivotal offseason. Among the most pressing questions is how the team will address its quarterback situation—a position that could undergo significant changes in the months ahead.

Quarterback Dilemma: Free Agency and Internal Options

The Steelers are entering the offseason with two notable quarterbacks, Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, set to become unrestricted free agents. This opens the door for potential shakeups in Pittsburgh’s offense. The team has decisions to make: re-sign one or both of their current quarterbacks, or explore alternative options in the free agent market.

The list of available quarterbacks includes intriguing names like Sam Darnold and possibly Kirk Cousins, should the Atlanta Falcons fail to trade the four-time Pro Bowl quarterback. Cousins’ availability could further complicate Pittsburgh’s plans. Meanwhile, both Wilson and Fields remain viable candidates to stay with the Steelers, but the question remains: did either player do enough this season to earn another contract in Pittsburgh?

Assessing the 2024 Performances of Fields and Wilson

During the 2024 season, Justin Fields led the Steelers to a solid 4-2 record as a starter, showcasing flashes of his potential. Meanwhile, Russell Wilson compiled a 6-5 record, guiding the team to a playoff appearance, though they fell short in the postseason. While both quarterbacks had their moments, the Steelers must weigh these performances against the financial and strategic implications of re-signing either player.

ESPN analysts Dan Graziano and Benjamin Solak recently weighed in on the situation. Both suggested that Wilson might be the more likely candidate to return but predicted that the cost would be considerably higher than the veteran minimum deal he played on this past season ($1.2 million).

The Case for Re-Signing Russell Wilson

Wilson’s 2024 season proved he still has the capability to lead a team to the playoffs. However, any deal to retain him would require a significant investment. Graziano and Solak projected that Wilson could command a deal in the range of the three-year, $100 million contract signed by Baker Mayfield with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While this figure may seem steep, the analysts argue it reflects the high demand for experienced quarterbacks in today’s market.

“The Steelers like Wilson, and they aren’t thrilled about the other options they’ll have on the offseason quarterback market. If Wilson will take a deal similar to the three-year, $100 million deal Baker Mayfield got from the Buccaneers this past year, he could stick around for a while,” Graziano explained.

Solak added that while the Steelers might re-sign Wilson, they would likely avoid committing to a long-term deal. “There’s no reason to sign the 36-year-old to a four-year deal when he likely wouldn’t get any such deal on the open market. I’ll bet he makes it to free agency, tests the waters, finds tepid interest, and returns to Pittsburgh on a three-year deal close to the value of Mayfield’s contract. I also predict Pittsburgh will draft a quarterback in the first three rounds in April,” he said.

Market Dynamics and the Draft as a Backup Plan

While a three-year, $100 million deal may sound excessive, the Steelers must also account for the fierce competition among quarterback-needy teams this offseason. With several franchises looking for upgrades, the price for even a moderately successful quarterback like Wilson could skyrocket. His playoff experience and leadership abilities make him an appealing option for teams desperate to make a postseason push.

That said, Pittsburgh could hedge its bets by targeting a young quarterback in the draft. Selecting a prospect in the early rounds would give the Steelers a long-term option to groom under Wilson or Fields, should either return.

What Lies Ahead for Pittsburgh?

The Steelers face tough choices as they navigate the offseason. Re-signing Wilson offers continuity and proven leadership but comes at a significant financial cost. Meanwhile, Justin Fields has shown promise but remains relatively unproven as a long-term solution. Alternatively, Pittsburgh could explore external options or draft their quarterback of the future.

Ultimately, the team’s decision will shape not only the quarterback room but the trajectory of the franchise for years to come. With analysts and fans alike speculating on what’s next, all eyes are on the Steelers’ front office as they prepare for one of their most critical offseasons in recent memory.