The NFL’s new league year has officially begun, and the Pittsburgh Steelers are still uncertain about who will be their starting quarterback for the upcoming season.

All eyes are on Aaron Rodgers as he considers returning for another year, but if he decides to hang up his cleats, there’s a possibility that the Steelers could turn to Will Howard, whom they drafted in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Even though Howard could be in line to start, he hasn’t played in the NFL, which could be an issue in the future.

If Rodgers doesn’t return, Howard will need some competition, and here are a few veteran quarterbacks the Steelers should consider adding.

Anthony Richardson Sr.

The Colts selected Anthony Richardson Sr. in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, but it appears his time in Indianapolis is drawing to a close.

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Richardson possesses a wealth of talent, but he hasn’t quite been able to put it all together during his 17 NFL games, throwing for just 2,400 yards with 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

The 23-year-old quarterback needs a change of scenery, and the Steelers could likely acquire him with a Day 3 pick. Richardson must mature if he wants to have a successful NFL career, but it wouldn’t hurt Pittsburgh to take a chance on him and see what he can contribute for a season.

This year, Richardson has a cap hit of $10.8 million, and if the Steelers choose to, they could exercise his fifth-year option this offseason for 2027, which would pay him $22 million. However, likely, Pittsburgh wouldn’t take that route.

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Kirk Cousins

The Atlanta Falcons have recently released Kirk Cousins, and he could be a solid option for the Steelers to consider for one season. Cousins will turn 38 this summer, but he brings with him 17 years of NFL experience, which could greatly benefit Pittsburgh.

What the Steelers are looking for is a reliable bridge who can hold the fort until they hopefully have a rookie expected to come in either during the 2026 or 2027 NFL Draft. Cousins could definitely provide that stability. Last season, he played in 10 games, throwing for 1,721 yards and 10 touchdowns, finishing with a solid 5-3 record.

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