The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing uncertainty at the quarterback position as they head into the 2025 season, prompting speculation about a potential blockbuster trade to bolster their roster. With their top target, Aaron Rodgers, yet to commit, the Steelers are reportedly considering a move for former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins and Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts, according to Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report.
Steelers’ Quarterback Quandary
While the Minnesota Vikings enjoy stability with rookie JJ McCarthy impressing during May’s OTAs, the Steelers are in a less enviable position. With only Will Howard and Mason Rudolph currently in the quarterback room, Pittsburgh is eager to secure a reliable signal-caller. Although Aaron Rodgers remains their primary target, there’s no guarantee he’ll join the team. As ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted on The Pat McAfee Show, “As long as Pittsburgh doesn’t have a quarterback, I’ll always keep my eyes open on that [a trade for Cousins].” This uncertainty has fueled speculation about alternative options, with Cousins emerging as a strong candidate.
The Proposed Trade
Knox suggests that the Steelers could pursue a trade with the Atlanta Falcons to acquire both Cousins and Pitts. The proposed deal would see Pittsburgh send a 2026 second-round pick, a 2026 fifth-round pick, and a 2027 fourth-round pick to Atlanta. In return, the Steelers would gain a proven quarterback in Cousins and a talented, albeit underperforming, tight end in Pitts. For the Falcons, the trade would free up $27.5 million in cap space by moving Cousins after June 1, while also securing valuable draft capital.
Trade Breakdown
Steelers Get: QB Kirk Cousins, TE Kyle Pitts
Falcons Get: 2026 2nd-round pick, 2026 5th-round pick, 2027 4th-round pick
Why Cousins and Pitts?
Kirk Cousins, now 36, offers a more sustainable long-term option compared to the 40-year-old Rodgers. Despite his age, Cousins has proven his durability and consistency, making him an attractive choice for a Steelers team looking to compete in 2025. Meanwhile, Kyle Pitts, the fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has accumulated over 2,600 receiving yards in his first four seasons. While he hasn’t fully lived up to his draft hype, Pitts remains a high-upside talent who could thrive in a new environment, especially after Pittsburgh traded away wide receiver George Pickens.
Knox notes that Pitts’ contract, which expires after this season, makes him an unlikely candidate to fetch a second-round pick on his own. However, bundling him with Cousins could make the trade appealing for both sides, providing the Steelers with much-needed offensive firepower.
Is the Price Right?
Some may argue that a second-round pick, plus additional mid-round selections, is a steep price for an aging quarterback and a tight end yet to reach his full potential. However, the Steelers’ need for stability at quarterback and additional pass-catching options could justify the cost. With Rodgers’ future uncertain—potentially retiring or signing elsewhere—Cousins represents a reliable fallback with the potential to lead Pittsburgh’s offense effectively.
What’s Next?
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Pittsburgh’s quarterback situation. If Rodgers doesn’t sign, Cousins could become the centerpiece of the Steelers’ 2025 plans, with Pitts adding a dynamic weapon to the offense. While the trade remains speculative, the possibility of seeing these two former NFC South stars in the Midwest is gaining traction, promising an exciting shake-up for the Steelers’ roster.