3 Predictions for Pittsburgh Steelers Starting QB in 2026

Entering the 2026 offseason, the Steelers face yet another decision at quarterback. 

Aaron Rodgers signed a one-year deal for the 2025 season. The 42-year-old is unlikely to return to Pittsburgh as he’s described this year as a one-year experiment. 

That leaves general manager Omar Khan with another decision to make at quarterback. If Rodgers retires, it would mark the third straight season Pittsburgh employs a new QB. 

Here are three predictions for the next Pittsburgh Steelers starting quarterback. 

2026 Pittsburgh Steelers Starting Quarterback Predictions

Mason Rudolph/Will Howard, Steelers QB’s

For Pittsburgh, committing to either of these quarterbacks would provide the easiest solution. Rudolph and Howard combine to count only 2.3% against next year’s cap. 

However, it would place a lot of stress on the defense if the offense struggles. In 2025, Pittsburgh spent the most money on its defense across the entire league. 

A cheap quarterback could lead to focusing on the defense in free agency. However, it’s still a team with needs at wide receiver and running back. 

With 26 starts for Pittsburgh, Rudolph would enter camp familiar with the offense. At 30 years old, he’s also younger than most 2026 free agents at quarterback. 

Kyler Murray, Cardinals QB

Pittsburgh has the draft capital to acquire Murray, but a deal likely requires Arizona retaining some salary. 

If the Cardinals cut Murray, Pittsburgh could acquire the experienced quarterback on a lower-cost contract. 

The knock against Murray is that he’ll enter next season off an injury. Of course, the same applied to Russell Wilson when Pittsburgh acquired him for 2024. 

If Pittsburgh seeks a game manager rather than a prolific quarterback, Murray could prove an attractive option. 

Ty Simpson, Alabama QB

The Steelers won’t finish bad enough to receive a high draft pick. Whether Simpson falls to Pittsburgh’s spot is unknown, as it depends on how teams view him. 

By external accounts, Simpson is a top prospect despite minimal collegiate experience. This year marked his first full season with the Tide, tossing 26 touchdowns and five interceptions. 

If the Steelers decide the NFL Draft – held in Pittsburgh – is the time to add a quarterback, Simpson likely presents the best option. 

Any other quarterback outside Simpson, Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore would likely prove a reach by the Steelers.