At one point during the offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers were eyeing a bold quarterback strategy — pairing young talent Justin Fields with veteran Super Bowl champion Matthew Stafford. But according to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, that dream scenario was never close to reality.
Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show, Schefter revealed the Steelers explored trade options for Stafford, while also weighing the value of retaining Fields. However, a mix of financial constraints, locker room dynamics, and long-term planning ultimately led them to pass on both options.
A Price Too High for Stafford
One of the main issues was Stafford’s hefty contract, which still carries more than $80 million over the next two seasons. With the team already committing significant money to defensive stars like T.J. Watt, and eventually to Aaron Rodgers, the room to absorb another elite salary simply wasn’t there.
Stafford, 36, was also viewed as a short-term rental — and giving up picks plus cap space didn’t align with Pittsburgh’s vision. As a result, best NFL betting apps saw no odds movement for a Stafford-Steelers trade, reinforcing the skepticism behind closed doors.
Fields: Flash or Foundation?
As for Justin Fields, the Steelers were reportedly impressed with his raw athleticism and upside. But the coaching staff questioned whether he’d be content in a backup role behind Rodgers, especially given Fields’ desire to start elsewhere. Developing Fields while also installing Rodgers as the face of the offense was a balancing act the Steelers didn’t want to commit to.
Fantasy experts took note as well. Without a clear QB plan, fantasy football sleepers 2025 lists remain conservative on all Steelers quarterbacks not named Rodgers.
Why Rodgers Was Always the Answer
Ultimately, Pittsburgh chose the simplest path: go all-in on Aaron Rodgers and develop rookie Will Howard as a potential long-term starter. This decision brought stability, something the Steelers desperately need amid contract drama with Watt and rising playoff expectations.
“They didn’t want to play the ‘what if’ game,” Schefter said. “They went with clarity.”
Rodgers’ leadership and existing chemistry with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith reportedly sealed the deal — and it was Rodgers, not Stafford or Fields, who showed real interest in the Steelers’ system.
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