Steelers' answer at QB exposed: 'I know who they're gonna end up with'

Everyone has been discussing the Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback situation and who will lead the team in 2025. The Steelers' strategy of obtaining two quarterbacks, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, at a bargain price was widely praised last year. 

Nevertheless, those were just one-year deals, and now Fields is gone. The Steelers have to figure out now what they're doing with Wilson or if they will look at free agency or the 2025 NFL Draft. To ensure they have some options for the backup position, they signed quarterback Skylar Thompson to a futures contract several weeks ago, who used to back up Tua Tagovailoa. They also brought quarterback Mason Rudolph back to Pittsburgh. 

Amidst the ongoing speculation and questions surrounding the starting quarterback position, NFL analyst Mike Florio seems to know what the Steelers will decide via his recent discussion on Pro Football Talk.

"I know who they're gonna end up with, I'm looking at him right now, Jameis Winston. If they don't sign [Aaron] Rodgers, they are going to go with Jameis Winston," said Florio.

Florio and co-host Chris Simms engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the Steelers' quarterback options. During their conversation, Florio and Simms expressed specific concerns about Aaron Rodgers, who has emerged as a leading candidate for the starting quarterback position. It has been widely reported that the Steelers have extended an offer to Rodgers and are awaiting his decision. Other teams vying for Rodgers have raised significant concerns for Florio and Simms. Florio's confident declaration regarding the Steelers' decision has not been widely discussed in other media outlets. 

"He can at least get the ball down the field to DK Metcalf," Florio continued about Winston.

This revelation follows the Steelers' recent acquisition of star wide receiver DK Metcalf, securing him with a substantial five-year, $150 million contract. Metcalf is widely recognized for his exceptional ability to catch deep passes, a skill that could potentially align perfectly with the throwing capabilities of quarterback Jameis Winston. Winston, who has accumulated experience playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints, and most recently, the Cleveland Browns, an AFC North division rival, demonstrated his resilience last season. Winston stepped into the starting role after Browns' quarterback Deshaun Watson suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 7. 

During his time as a starter, Winston recorded 2,121 passing yards, 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Notably, in Week 13, Winston etched his name into Browns' record books by setting a new franchise record for his single-game passing yards with 497. However, this performance was marked by three interceptions, including two pick-sixes, highlighting the inherent risk-reward nature of his playing style. This game, in particular, vividly illustrated Winston's powerful arm and propensity for deep throws, characteristics that could integrate effectively with Metcalf's deep-threat abilities. 

Head coach Mike Tomlin's well-known aversion to quarterbacks prone to turnovers is the primary obstacle to the Steelers acquiring Winston. Winston's history of interceptions raises serious concerns regarding trust and reliability, which are paramount in Tomlin's quarterback selection process. Despite these potential reservations, Winston holds Tomlin and the Steelers organization in high regard. During an appearance on the popular "Pardon My Take" podcast, Winston openly expressed his admiration for Tomlin and the Steelers. 

"If that opportunity presents itself, I would love to team up with Coach Mike Tomlin," Winston said. 

The combination of mutual respect between Winston and the Steelers organization and a skill set that appears to complement the team's offensive direction for the upcoming season suggests that Winston's potential acquisition should not be dismissed. 

Steelers and Winston could be perfect fit

He is now a free agent, opening the door for potential negotiations. His extensive NFL experience, dating back to 2015, positions him as a valuable mentor for younger quarterbacks, while his recent backup roles indicate a potential willingness to accept a financially advantageous contract. 

The Browns' recent signing of former Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett, who still hopes to be a starter, further incentivizes Winston to seek a new team.