Mike Tomlin & Steelers Finally Land Franchise QB In Latest Projection as Aaron Rodgers Changes Retirement Stance

For most of Pittsburgh’s recent history, the franchise has struggled to house a reliable man in command. If viewed from head coach Mike Tomlin’s 15-year tenure with them, not a single quarterback has proven to be a cornerstone—except the legendary Ben Roethlisberger. Since he left, it feels like there’s a void that can be filled. Though back in 2022, Tomlin confidently said he’s “excited about that challenge” of finding the next franchise QB, but the search still continues. While they may have failed to allocate one, it looks like an insider has done their job—and it’s worth listening. 

Under Tomlin’s reign, the Steelers have often relied on veterans. That’s why, despite Justin Fields’ promising start in 2024, the head coach was insistent on keeping the starting position for Russell Wilson. In 2022, when they were actively seeking a franchise quarterback, a report by FOX’s Jay Glazer revealed the team does not intend to go ahead with a rookie. They were labelled as true believers of “HUGE market for veteran QBs who are available.” And who did they bring in? Kenny Pickett. The result? 9-8. This season, while they do have Aaron Rodgers, the chances of becoming a championship contenders are still dicey. So perhaps a rookie might do the magic after all. And Ryan Roberts of A to Z Sports has just the name to consider. 

In his latest mock draft, Roberts didn’t just present arguments for why the Steelers should consider this prospect, but also shared a mock draft projection alongside Joe DeLeone. Using the No. 16 overall pick, assuming Pittsburgh picked Sam Leavitt, which Roberts very much supports, it can do wonders. He added, “There is always going to be a wildcard at quarterback that ends up going earlier than many people believe. That could be Leavitt this year.”

Put arm strength, size, and athleticism in one, that’s Leavitt for you—at least that’s what Roberts believes. “Of all the quarterbacks eligible for the 2026 NFL Draft, there is a very strong argument that Leavitt possesses some of the best combination of skills.” In his first year as a starter, Leavitt posted 2,885 yards, 24 TDs, and just six interceptions.

Experts believe he has genuine potential to “step forward.” Of course, he still has a lot of development to do. If the Steelers bet their chance on him—which they should in Roberts’ opinion—Tomlin can bring back the era when the Steelers were considered true championship contenders. All he has to do is provide Leavitt with “a track or development.” The rest will take care of itself.  

But the question is: Are the Steelers seeking a starter for 2026? Well, up until now, that seems to be the idea since Rodgers wants to seriously contemplate his retirement plans following this season. “I’m going to take this offseason to evaluate, to consider all options,” he said. But that’s where the twist is. In his latest appearance on Not Just Football with Cam Heyward, the 41-year-old teased on the subject of returning next season. 

Claiming that the team plans to “do some special things” this season, Rodgers added, “maybe we can run it back” with a grin. This raises a question: Will the Steelers use a first-round pick on a QB next season? Tomlin’s fixation on veterans, like Rogdergs this season, raises a doubt. 

However, even if Rodgers plans to stay long-term, it’s close to impossible that he is the long-term option that the Steelers need. It remains the same, even if the team has a record-breaking season. Sooner or later, Tomlin will have to face the reality that the team needs to consider drafting a QB in 2026. After all, that’s how they found Roethlisberger.  

Steelers’ backup quarterback dilemma 

It looks like the Steelers have a realisation that Rodgers can’t be their long-term saviour. Though they have handed over the reins of the present into his hands, they are also hoping to develop a franchise quarterback. No, not draft picks, but someone from the inside: Will Howard. However, he has ended up on the Injured Reserve. It came at the beginning of the training camp when he injured the finger of his throwing arm. 

“I can normally tolerate pain pretty well. I literally could not grip the football. So I knew something was messed up,” Howard updated about his injury. It was expected to be recovered by the start of the 2025 regular season since he sat out the preseason as well, but he hasn’t recovered fully. 

This not only diminished Howard’s chance to be a true successor but also jeopardized the team’s backup QB position a week before the regular season. That’s why Mason Rudolph has stepped up as backup to Rodgers. But that’s not definite. Skylar Thompson has also shown potential in the preseason. Even HC Tomlin appreciated him, saying, “Skylar has been making smart decisions. His confidence under pressure is exactly what we need.” However, Rudolph’s experience covering the No. 2 position gives him an edge. As for Howard, he won’t be available for at least the first four weeks of the upcoming season.