The Pittsburgh Steelers made a splash by trading for star wide receiver DK Metcalf, but the move only highlights their biggest question mark – who will throw him the ball in 2025? After finishing 10-7 last season with a disappointing playoff exit to the Ravens, the Steelers must address their quarterback situation or risk wasting another year of Mike Tomlin’s coaching tenure.
A Bold Move for Metcalf
The Steelers sent a second-round draft pick to Seattle for Metcalf and promptly signed him to a five-year, $150 million contract. This addition brings star power to a receiving corps that needed help. Football analysts across multiple platforms, including betting experts who track NFL roster movements, recognize this as a major acquisition. Many NFL bettors track these offseason moves closely as they can dramatically shift team futures odds before the season starts (source: https://casinobeats.com/betting-sites/).
The Quarterback Conundrum
Russell Wilson, now 36, did not do enough to earn a long-term contract with Pittsburgh. The team went 10-3 to start the season but lost their final five games, including their wild-card matchup. This collapse exposed limitations in the offense that start at quarterback.
Justin Fields remains a cheaper backup option, but the Steelers already decided Wilson was the better choice last season. Neither quarterback presents an ideal path forward for a franchise that wants to compete with AFC powerhouses.
The free agent market offers few solutions, and picking at 21st overall in the draft limits their chances of landing a day-one starter at the position. Pittsburgh might need to package picks to move up or hope for a surprise fall from one of the top quarterback prospects.
Roster Needs Beyond Quarterback
While quarterback tops the list, the Steelers have other areas to address with their $42 million in cap space (after releasing Preston Smith):
- Running back decisions: Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren both hit free agency. Warren, a restricted free agent, makes more financial sense to retain.
- Defensive secondary help: The Steelers ranked 25th in pass defense despite an overall solid defensive performance. Cornerback Donte Jackson might leave in free agency, creating another hole to fill.
- Offensive line concerns: Left tackle Dan Moore Jr. signed with the Titans, and right guard James Daniels is coming off an Achilles tear. Pittsburgh must find solutions to protect whoever ends up under center.
Draft Strategy Shifts
With their second-round pick gone in the Metcalf trade, the Steelers must maximize their remaining picks. Their first selection comes at No. 21 overall, where they could target a wide receiver like Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka.
Egbuka lacks elite athleticism but excels as a route runner who moves the chains. He caught 81 passes for 1,011 yards and 10 touchdowns last season (including playoff games) and could complement George Pickens and Metcalf nicely.
The Steelers might also look at running backs in the middle rounds if Harris walks. Analysts point to Cam Skattebo as a potential fit who would connect with the Pittsburgh fanbase immediately.
Without a clear path at quarterback, the Steelers focus on building around the position while hoping for a long-shot solution to emerge. The Metcalf trade proves they want to win now – they just need someone to throw him the ball.
