With the draft in Pittsburgh, the Steelers must weigh waiting for Rodgers against pursuing alternatives to bolster the QB room. The club also carries 12 total picks, including three in the third round, intensifying the strategic questions surrounding their approach at the position.
One hypothetical trade scenario would send the No. 99 pick (a third-rounder) to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for quarterback Anthony Richardson, a former top-five pick with elite physical tools who reportedly wants out of Indy.
Richardson would cost roughly $5.4 million against the 2026 salary cap, and at 23 years old he offers intriguing upside alongside some development risk. The Colts are reportedly open to moving him, which would give Pittsburgh a concrete option if Rodgers remains undecided.
Some mock drafts still project the Steelers to target Ty Simpson out of Alabama, depending on Rodgers’ status. The article notes Rodgers delivered a quality season recently, with a 65.7% completion rate, 3,322 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, underscoring the nuance in Pittsburgh’s decision-making.
Ultimately, Pittsburgh faces a crossroads: a crowded quarterback room, a draft still to navigate, and Rodgers’ fate still in limbo. The team’s strategy in the coming days will shape whether they lean on a veteran plan, a young quarterback with upside, or a creative combination to stay competitive.
