Steelers place original-round RFA tender on QB Dwayne Haskins

While the Steelers are in the market for a new starting quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger‘s two backups from 2021 are both under contract. Pittsburgh gave Dwayne Haskins a restricted free-agent tender Friday.

The Steelers placed an original-round tender on Haskins, per Pro Football Focus’ Doug Kyed. Although the original-round tender sits third on the RFA salary hierarchy — behind first- and second-round tenders — it does effectively ensure Haskins will be a Steeler going into training camp. A team would have to give up a first-round pick to poach him, since Haskins was a first-round pick three years ago. The Ohio State product will be tied to a $2.54M salary in 2022, barring an extension.

Haskins' and Mason Rudolph‘s deals now run through the 2022 season, giving the team options — or depth, at least — under center. (Rudolph is set to earn $3M in base salary next season.) The Steelers took a flier on Haskins following his quick Washington exit, and last season became a developmental year. After starting 13 games with Washington from 2019-20, the former high-end prospect did not play in 2021.

Pittsburgh has been linked to giving Rudolph a legitimate opportunity to succeed Roethlisberger. This would surely not go over well with the team’s fan base, with the former third-round pick not impressing much in his starting chances thus far. Haskins has made more starts than Rudolph but played behind the longtime Steeler last year. The team has also been connected to Teddy Bridgewater, Jameis Winston and Mitchell Trubisky, while it is believed to be high on Malik Willis. A Willis investment might take a trade-up for the Steelers, who hold the No. 20 overall pick.