Steelers predicted to trade up for dynamic pocket passer to replace Aaron Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers will likely be back in the quarterback market next offseason, as Aaron Rodgers is expected to retire after the 2025 season and Will Howard has an uphill battle to prove that he can be the long-term answer.

Pittsburgh could give Howard a chance to establish himself as Rodgers' replacement, but Pro Football Network's Mark Stolte predicts the Steelers will trade up in the 2026 NFL Draft for LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier.

"The Steelers have no future at quarterback and are still competent at the majority of positions meaning they need one quickly. Insert Garrett Nussmeier and maybe the Steelers have a fighting chance," Stolte wrote.

Nussmeier finally got his chance to start in 2024, and he performed well, tossing 29 touchdowns to 12 interceptions with a 64.2% completion rate. The 23-year-old led LSU to a 9-4 record and a win over Baylor in the Texas Bowl.

Heading into 2025, Nussmeier is projected to be one of the better quarterbacks in the nation and should solidify his status as a first-round pick with productive campaign.

The Louisiana native isn't a dynamic athlete, but he makes up for it with his arm talent, though he does need to take better care of the ball and show more consistent accuracy this year.

Pittsburgh could look to ditch the veteran quarterback route in 2026 and spend a premium draft pick on a quarterback. Nussmeier could be the franchise's answer and start right away for Mike Tomlin's group next season.

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