Steelers reportedly won't pursue trade for Texans QB Deshaun Watson

The Steelers are one of the few QB-needy teams remaining, but don’t expect them to pursue the most talented option who still on the market. Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that the Steelers are not interested in acquiring Deshaun Watson.

With Ben Roethlisberger now out of the picture, the Steelers are clearly on the lookout for their next signal-caller (with apologies to Mason Rudolph). There’s a variety of reasons why the organization may be crossing Watson off their list. Of course, there’s the QB’s ongoing legal issues, and while there should be come clarity on his immediate NFL future when he appears before a grand jury Friday, a suspension is likely coming (regardless of an indictment). His uncertain playing status could be important to a Steelers squad that may be looking to return to the postseason. The organization could also be scared off by Houston’s asking price, which continues to be three first-round picks and more assets.

So if not Watson, who could the Steelers pursue? We heard recently the team was targeting Jameis Winston, Teddy Bridgewater and Mitchell Trubisky, and the organization has also been connected to Liberty QB Malik Willis. The front office could ultimately decide to pair a rookie quarterback with a veteran.

There’s also Rudolph, whom the organization has continually praised via the media. The former third-round pick had some success as a starter in 2019, guiding the Steelers to a 5-3 record while tossing 13 touchdowns against nine interceptions. The team will also be placing a restricted free-agent tag on QB Dwayne Haskins, who could also end up competing for the starting nod.