Steelers Target Daniel Jones After Rodgers—Did They Regret Passing on Shedeur Sanders? | NFL Wires
%20(69).png)
Pittsburgh may sign QB Daniel Jones after Aaron Rodgers' retirement—could they regret passing on Shedeur Sanders? NFL Wires breaks down what's next.
A Post‑Rodgers QB Plan: Daniel Jones in the Mix
With Aaron Rodgers set to retire after the 2025 season, ESPN's Brooke Pryor notes the Steelers are positioning themselves for tomorrow’s quarterback market. Among the options? Daniel Jones, currently on a one‑year deal with the Colts, and former top pick Anthony Richardson. Jones is expected to enter free agency in 2026, making him a strong veteran candidate for Pittsburgh’s QB reboot.
Why Daniel Jones Fits
Veteran Savvy & Availability
As a former first‑round pick, Jones brings starting experience and isn’t locked into a long‑term contract. If the Colts move on, he could be the top veteran QB the Steelers chase .
Development Time for Young Talent
With Rodgers expected to lead the 2025 campaign, the Steelers can evaluate their rookie Will Howard and other prospects under veteran mentorship before making a deeper commitment.
Meanwhile: Shedeur Sanders Snub Raises Eyebrows
Ironically, the Steelers passed on Shedeur Sanders in the 2025 draft—despite him being available in three separate rounds. Analysts now wonder if that was a missed opportunity.
-
ESPN’s Chris Canty branded it the “biggest mistake of the Mike Tomlin era,” warning that Sanders could become a franchise quarterback elsewhere based on Pittsburgh’s conservative pick. Mike Tomlin defended the move, citing the team’s desire for “big‑man presence” on defense, and noting draft focus and roster needs over selecting Sanders.
The Risk of Focusing on Jones Over Sanders
Proven vs. Potential
-
Daniel Jones offers experience and readiness—ideal for short‑term stability.
-
Shedeur Sanders appeals to long‑term upside, but would have required patience and development.
Choosing a veteran over youthful potential may cost more in the future if Sanders blossoms elsewhere.
What This Means for Steelers Fans
-
Quarterback Outlook
-
2025 starters: Rodgers backed by Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson & Will Howard.
-
2026 focus: Evaluate both Jones (or Richardson) and the 2026 QB draft class
-
-
Missed Opportunity
-
Passing on Sanders already sparked criticism; now choosing Jones may raise more scrutiny if Pittsburgh doesn’t hit a QB home run.
-
NFL Wires Verdict
The Steelers are showing balance: veteran reliability with Rodgers and future planning via free agents and the draft. But passing on a promising Shedeur Sanders—now showing flashes with the Browns—looks like a gamble. Should Pittsburgh miss with the veteran route, fans will question if they bypassed a future star.
Conclusion: Veteran or Visionary?
Pittsburgh must decide: rely on known talent in Daniel Jones or chase potential with Sanders or a rookie. Either way, the next two offseasons will define the franchise’s quarterback future—and possibly reshape the AFC North balance.
Tyreek Hill Biography:
Career, Stats, Net Worth & Life Story
