​The Pittsburgh Steelers are almost certainly expected to search for a quarterback in 2027, given that Aaron Rodgers has indicated 2026 will be his final season. Rookie Drew Allar and former 2025 sixth-round pick Will Howard remain potential options as head coach Mike McCarthy and the staff work to develop the young signal-callers. However, if Pittsburgh leans toward a more proven name in 2027, several possibilities could be on the radar.
Baker Mayfield, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback, is set to become a free agent next March and has publicly stated a deadline for securing a deal before training camp. Meanwhile, an AFC quarterback has emerged as a name to monitor. According to ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime, the Houston Texans and C.J. Stroud are not close to a contract extension ahead of the 2026 season. Bien-Aime notes that Stroud and Houston find themselves in a delicate position after a disappointing finish to last season, including four interceptions in the AFC divisional round against New England. A lucrative extension in the neighborhood of $55 million to $60 million per year could create hesitation, making it another “prove-it” season for Stroud.
Stroud had an outstanding rookie year in 2023, throwing for 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns, and only five interceptions. He led the Texans to the AFC South title in his first year, under head coach DeMeco Ryans, and Houston has reached the playoffs in each of the last three seasons, winning a playoff game in every one of those campaigns. He is the third quarterback in the Super Bowl era to accomplish that feat. Houston has already picked up Stroud’s fifth-year option, so even without a long-term deal by next offseason, he would remain under contract with the Texans. If Pittsburgh were to pursue him, a trade would be necessary.
Stroud is 2-0 against the Steelers in his career, with a win in 2023 and another in the wild-card round this past January, both 30-6 victories by Houston. The Steelers will host Stroud and the Texans in Week 13 on Sunday Night Football. Share your thoughts in the comments, and stay with Behind the Steel Curtain for the latest news, breakdowns, and more.