The NFL free agency is buzzing, with fans eager to see where star quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson will land. As the dust settles, many questions remain.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a tight spot when it comes to finding their next quarterback. Initially, they were interested in Matthew Stafford and Sam Darnold, but both have moved on. They also missed out on Justin Fields, who is now with the Jets. This pursuit emphasizes that the Steelers believe they are just a quarterback away from being a playoff contender, especially after acquiring wide receiver DK Metcalf.
While both Wilson and Rodgers may not be at their peak, they could still offer much-needed stability. Coach Mike Tomlin had a strong bond with Wilson. They spent significant time together, which could influence Wilson’s return to Pittsburgh. However, some insiders feel that the relationship isn’t what it used to be. A league executive noted, "It’s not the same as it was earlier in the season."
Meanwhile, Fields chose not to return to Pittsburgh, drawn instead to the bright lights of New York and the chance to reconnect with former college teammate Garrett Wilson on the Jets. With the arrival of new offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand, who previously helped shape the Lions’ success, Fields could thrive in a more dynamic system.
As for Rodgers, some speculate that the Steelers could be a suitable fit. A former general manager suggested that Pittsburgh’s strong organizational structure might be the perfect backdrop for him. The Steelers hold the 21st pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and they may not have the luxury of trading up like other teams seeking a promising young quarterback.
There are other contenders for both quarterbacks. Reports indicate the Vikings are not keen on Rodgers. After losing backup quarterbacks Daniel Jones and Nick Mullens, they are likely to look for a veteran who can support their plans for first-rounder J.J. McCarthy.
The Cleveland Browns are eyeing Wilson but are also focused on the future. General Manager Andrew Berry spoke about wanting a quarterback who can make decisions and solve problems on the field. While Wilson might serve as a bridge quarterback, the Browns are still planning for a new era with their second overall pick.
In New York, the Giants could be in the mix for Wilson as well. They hold the third pick and may be looking to draft a new quarterback. Adding Wilson could provide a stopgap while they groom a rookie.
Shifting the focus to Las Vegas, the Raiders have made headlines by acquiring quarterback Geno Smith. After some tricky negotiations with the Seahawks, Smith emerged as a strong candidate for the team’s future. He’s known for his grit and has shown remarkable poise, with 12 game-winning drives since 2022—second only to Patrick Mahomes.
The Raiders are not done strengthening their roster. With the sixth pick in the upcoming draft, they have a wealth of options to add key offensive players around Smith.
In summary, the NFL’s quarterback landscape is shifting. Teams are exploring various strategies to ensure they have the right leaders at the helm. As free agency unfolds, it’ll be exciting to see where these talented quarterbacks end up. Follow the latest developments on trustworthy platforms like ESPN and NFL.com.