One team’s trash is another’s treasure, and the Steelers could go dumpster diving in their search for their 2025 quarterback.
Pittsburgh radio host Andrew Fillipponi reported Tuesday that the Steelers are interested in ex-Giants quarterback Daniel Jones and detailed why the former first-round pick could be a good in the Steel City.
“There’s interest in former Giants QB Daniel Jones inside the Steelers organization,” Fillipponi said on X. “Quote: ‘[The Steelers] could do a lot worse than Jones.’ With the belief he actually is a good fit for Arthur Smith’s offense. And Mike Tomlin’s preference for a mobile quarterback.”
Jones ran the ball 227 times over the past three years (fifth-most among quarterbacks) and, in theory, is a fit for teams that are looking for a dual-threat option.
Pittsburgh could use Jones similar to how it employed Justin Fields, a former first-round pick quarterback who started six games for the Steelers last season before they pivoted to Russell Wilson.
Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s scheme, which is an extension of Matt Lafleur’s system after having served under him in Tennessee and Green Bay, produced solid numbers from both Fields and Wilson.
Wilson tossed16 touchdowns and five interceptions en route to a playoff berth, although he is more of a pocket passer than a mobile option at this point of the 36-year-old’s career.
The Steelers and Wilson did struggle down the stretch, though, as they lost five straight including a non-competitive playoff loss to the Ravens.
Team owner Art Rooney expressed interest in signing one of Fields or Wilson to a long-term extension, but not both.
Jones now emerges as a third alternative that could be on the Steelers radar.
Jones threw for just 2,070 yards and eight touchdowns in 10 games with the Giants before being benched and eventually requesting his release.
He then signed on with the Minnesota Vikings practice squad and coach Kevin O’Connell, who revitalized ex-Jets first round pick Sam Darnold’s career.
The betting markets project the Steelers will land Aaron Rodgers, should he continue playing.
