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Steelers Named Trade Candidate for Former First-Round Quarterback

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Feb 18, 2026 11:23 AM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers went 10-7 in 2025, making a playoff appearance. However, for the third straight season, they failed to make it past the wild-card round. Following the loss, head coach Mike Tomlin stepped down and has since been replaced by Mike McCarthy.

Meanwhile, with Aaron Rodgers under center, the Steelers' offense was far from perfect. The unit was averaging 23.4 points per game (15th in the NFL) and 305.6 total yards per game (25th in the NFL).

However, he will be 42 years old when the 2026 season begins, and retirement is on the table. No official decision has been announced, but there are reports of a possible return to the Steelers. Pittsburgh will continue to weigh its options until one is made.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8)© Jeff Lange / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

After spending three years with the Florida Gators, Anthony Richardson was selected by the Indianapolis Colts with the No. 4 pick in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He just wrapped up his third season with the team.

During that time, he's thrown for 2,400 yards, 11 touchdowns, 13 interceptions, and a 67.8 passer rating. The quarterback has also rushed for 634 yards and 10 touchdowns. He has yet to find his footing, appearing in just 17 games with 15 starts.

However, Bleacher Report's Alex Kay believes that the Steelers could give Richardson a fresh start going into the 2026 season. This comes after reports that the quarterback will likely ask to be traded this offseason.

"Richardson would be the ultimate dice roll for the Steelers," Kay wrote. "He possesses more upside than any other quarterback who the team could reasonably acquire this offseason—including the trade market, free agency and draft—and still has the potential to develop into a top-tier NFL starter if all goes right."

If Rodgers retires, Richardson could compete for the starting spot. Will Howard and Mason Rudolph are the only other quarterbacks rostered going into next season. If Rodgers returns, he could serve as a backup to a future Pro Football Hall of Famer.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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