Should The Steelers Make A Shocking QB Trade? Analyzing The NFC Options

Aria Freeman

5 min read

Post on May 22, 2025

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Evaluating the NFC Quarterback Landscape

The NFC boasts a diverse collection of quarterbacks, some with impressive stats and others whose teams might be open to a trade. Assessing the "available quarterbacks" is crucial to understanding the potential targets for a Steelers QB trade. Considering trade value and their performance, several names emerge as potential candidates. The landscape of available quarterbacks is fluid, but we can analyze a few key players.

• List of Potential NFC QB Trade Candidates:

  • Dak Prescott (Dallas Cowboys): Prescott boasts impressive passing yards but his injury history and contract represent a significant hurdle. His trade value is high due to his name recognition and leadership skills, yet the cost would be substantial.
  • Jared Goff (Detroit Lions): Goff has shown consistency and has a manageable contract. His trade value is moderate, making him a potentially more affordable option for a Steelers QB trade.
  • Jimmy Garoppolo (Free Agent, formerly San Francisco 49ers): While a free agent, Garoppolo's experience could still make him an intriguing option if the price is right. His injury history, however, makes him a somewhat risky proposition.
  • Taylor Heinicke (Washington Commanders): Heinicke's leadership and ability to make plays could prove a valuable addition as a backup or bridge quarterback. His contract and trade value are relatively low.
  • Kirk Cousins (Minnesota Vikings): While seemingly unlikely, Cousins' large contract may make him a moveable piece if Minnesota seeks to rebuild. His high trade value means the cost for Pittsburgh might be prohibitive.

• Analyzing Strengths, Weaknesses, and Stats: Each quarterback brings a unique set of skills, weaknesses, and contract situations. A thorough analysis, including considering their passing yards, touchdowns, interceptions, and overall performance, is necessary before determining their suitability for the Steelers.

Analyzing the Steelers' Needs and Resources

The Steelers' current quarterback situation is undeniably a pressing need. Their current roster lacks a clear franchise quarterback, making the acquisition of a veteran through a trade a compelling strategy. However, the feasibility of a Steelers QB trade hinges significantly on their available resources.

• Current Steelers QB Situation: The Steelers need an upgrade to their current QB situation. Whether through a shocking trade or other avenues, a new starter is necessary.

• Salary Cap and Draft Capital: The Steelers possess a moderate amount of salary cap space and possess draft picks that could be used as trade assets. However, the cost of acquiring a top-tier NFC quarterback would likely involve sacrificing significant draft capital.

• Potential Trade Assets: The Steelers could offer a combination of draft picks, young players, and possibly even a player or two with a higher trade value. This would need to be carefully negotiated with the NFC team to reach a trade agreement.

Potential Trade Scenarios and Their Implications

Several trade scenarios involving NFC quarterbacks and the Steelers could play out. Let's examine two:

• Scenario 1: Steelers trade for Jared Goff: A trade for Goff would likely involve a mid-round draft pick, possibly a second or third-rounder, and potentially a younger player. The upside is a proven starting quarterback with a manageable contract. The downside is that Goff may not be a long-term solution.

• Scenario 2: Steelers trade for Dak Prescott (unlikely): This scenario would require a massive trade package including multiple high draft picks and promising young players. The upside is acquiring a proven star quarterback. The downside is the significant cost and commitment to a potentially injury-prone player with a huge contract. This scenario is less feasible due to the high trade value of Prescott and the resources required.

Comparing these scenarios reveals the vast difference in risk and reward.

The Risk vs. Reward of a Shocking Steelers QB Trade

The potential for a shocking Steelers QB trade carries significant risk and substantial reward.

• Potential Upside: A successful trade could instantly elevate the team's competitiveness, providing a seasoned quarterback to lead the offense and compete for a playoff spot.

• Potential Downsides: A failed trade could deplete the Steelers' resources, hindering their future prospects, and backfire completely. The team could be stuck with a high-priced, underperforming quarterback.

The level of risk involved varies significantly depending on the chosen target and the trade package offered. A trade for a less expensive but lesser-known quarterback would present less risk than trading for a high-profile star.

Conclusion: Should the Steelers Pull the Trigger on a Shocking QB Trade?

Analyzing the possibilities of a Steelers QB trade from the NFC reveals both exciting possibilities and considerable risk. While acquiring a proven quarterback could significantly boost the team’s immediate chances of success, the cost in terms of draft picks and resources could severely impact long-term prospects. The Jared Goff scenario appears more feasible due to a lower trade cost, while the Dak Prescott trade is arguably too risky and costly given the resources required. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on the Steelers' assessment of risk versus reward.

What NFC quarterback would you target for a Steelers trade? Share your thoughts using #Steelers #NFLTrade #SteelersQB and join the discussion!