Who will be the Steelers’ starting quarterback in the 2025-26 NFL season?

Patrick Romito, Staff Writer

March 20, 2025

Mason Rudolph returned to Pittsburgh and could be a viable option for starting quarterback this upcoming season.

As the Pittsburgh Steelers look toward the 2025-26 NFL season, the looming question is: who will be under center?

With potential options ranging from free agency signings to the draft, the team’s decision will significantly impact its fortunes in the coming years.

One possibility for Pittsburgh is to resign Russell Wilson, who had a season with Pittsburgh last year that left many fans torn.

The veteran now finds himself navigating a landscape that has seen him linked to several teams, including the Cleveland Browns and the New York Giants.

Furthermore, Wilson’s relationship with former coach Pete Carroll adds another layer, with rumors circulating about a reunion with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Depending on where Wilson’s discussions turn out, Pittsburgh could capitalize on Wilson’s uncertainties to bring him back into the fold, providing them with a veteran quarterback looking to prove his worth and reclaim his status.

Then there’s the potential for Pittsburgh to target Aaron Rodgers, a name that has been linked to the franchise since he departed from the New York Jets.

Despite a decline in performance and the shadow of retirement looming over him, his experience and big-play ability could provide Pittsburgh with immediate competitiveness.

On the flip side, Pittsburgh may take a more youthful approach by investing in the future through the 2025 NFL Draft. Jaxson Dart is a name that has circulated significantly among analysts and could be an enticing option.

Dart has exhibited the raw talent and upside that franchises desire, and with Pittsburgh’s stable infrastructure, he would have the support needed for a smooth transition to the pros.

Selecting a quarterback in this manner allows the Steelers to mold a new leader for their offense while maintaining a long-term vision focused on sustainable growth.

By developing Dart under the guidance of seasoned coordinators, they could establish a new era of Pittsburgh football.

Lastly, Mason Rudolph recently made his return to Pittsburgh, adding another layer to the conversation surrounding the quarterback position.

With prior experience in the system and organization, Rudolph could serve as a reliable option for Pittsburgh. While he may not excite fans like Wilson or Rodgers might, he brings stability and familiarity.

If Pittsburgh decides against making a splash in free agency or the draft, Rudolph could very well claim the starting position as a bridge quarterback until they find their franchise signal-caller.

Ultimately, who the starting quarterback for Pittsburgh will be in the 2025-26 season rests on a myriad of factors, from free agency movements to draft strategies and individual performances.

Whether it’s the veteran presence of Wilson, the legacy of Rodgers, the youthful potential of Dart, or the familiarity of Rudolph, Pittsburgh’s decision will define their trajectory for years to come.

As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on the Steel City, eagerly awaiting their next chapter in the quest for Super Bowl glory.

About the Contributor

Patrick Romito, Staff Writer

And that’s another Bethel Park Black Hawks win for the boys soccer team. Whether Patrick is on the soccer field or behind the keyboard, he’s always aiming to make an impact—one play and one story at a time. This year, Patrick Romito, an 11th grader, joins Scholastic Publications for the first time. When asked why he decided to sign up, Patrick said, “I took the class to get more involved in school activities.” With a clear passion for making the most of his high school experience, Patrick is eager to contribute to the class by writing articles for the Hawk Eye newspaper. He’s ready to take on whatever stories come his way, whether spotlight features, sports, or school news. Patrick is not just a writer; he’s also an accomplished athlete. With 12 years of soccer experience under his belt and as a three-year DECA member, he balances both extracurriculars and academics with ease. As someone who enjoys variety, he’s equally open to different kinds of stories, saying, “I enjoy writing in general, so whether it’s spotlights, sports, or school news-related content, it doesn’t matter to me.” Looking ahead, Patrick’s plans after high school include studying marketing and advertising, although he’s still deciding on a specific college. In the meantime, his favorite class is Law & You with Mr. Vic. He appreciates how the course prepares him for life after high school, and he enjoys Mr. Vic’s real-life stories that make each lesson engaging. Reflecting on his time in high school, Patrick recalls the excitement of attending football games as a freshman, where he formed friendships that have lasted throughout his high school years. “I really enjoyed going to the football games freshman year because I ended up making a lot of friends there, a lot of which I’m still friends with today,” he said. Outside of school, Patrick has worked as a lifeguard at Highpoint Fitness for almost two years, a job that highlights his dedication and work ethic. When he’s not working or playing soccer, he enjoys comedy movies, with Step Brothers being his top pick. And what’s his dream vacation? Patrick hopes to one day visit Italy. “My dream vacation is Italy because first, it is very beautiful there, as well as my family roots going back to there,” he shared. In just three words, Patrick describes himself as calm, caring, and hardworking — qualities that are sure to serve him well both in and out of the classroom. Keep an eye out for Patrick’s contributions to Hawk Eye this year as he dives into the world of scholastic publications! Written by: Grace Ferency, Staff Writer