PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 07: Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin looks on before the game against the New England Patriots at Acrisure Stadium on December 07, 2023 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
A quarterback from a rival team of the Pittsburgh Steelers has reportedly reached an agreement to join their roster.
With just under a month remaining until the NFL’s new league year commences, anticipation and speculation are mounting. The focus, particularly for the Steelers, is on their quarterback situation and potential acquisitions.
There’s significant buzz suggesting that Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields is likely headed to Pittsburgh, as indicated by various reputable sportsbooks. Adding to the conversation, a well-established Pro Bowler is now in consideration.
During an interview on 93.7 The Fan in Pittsburgh, Mike Florio from Pro Football Talk mentioned the possibility of the Steelers pursuing Kirk Cousins, a move that might garner mutual interest.
“I recently spoke with individuals closely associated with, if not directly part of, Kirk Cousins’ circle, who expressed interest in the Steelers potentially pursuing him,” Florio stated. “The sense is that there’s a chance this could materialize, with the Falcons and the Steelers being the primary teams Cousins’ camp is monitoring.”
It’s important to note that this information remains speculative until confirmed by official signings. Nevertheless, it’s a development worth monitoring.
One of the primary concerns among fans regarding a potential Cousins signing is the financial aspect. According to Spotrac, Cousins’ market value stands at $39.3 million, ranking him 11th among quarterbacks. In today’s NFL, opting for a budget-friendly veteran quarterback often translates to compromising on quality.
The Steelers have the financial flexibility to create over $40 million in cap space. Additionally, structuring a deal with Cousins at his market value could involve a significant signing bonus, allowing for more cap space.
Bringing Cousins on board could parallel what Matthew Stafford has done for the Rams. Despite the Steelers’ decent 10-win record, their quarterback situation has been widely regarded as one of the weakest in the league. Someone like Cousins, who was enjoying a stellar season before his injury, could elevate the team to the next level. In the AFC, having a reliable quarterback is imperative for success. While current speculation centers on Justin Fields, Cousins arguably presents the best option for Pittsburgh.
