Steelers linked to Pro Bowl QB amid major contract issues

Baker Mayfield‘s contract negotiations with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have taken the NFL world by storm, so much so that the Pittsburgh Steelers have been named as a potential suitor if the situation becomes irreparable.

According to Noah Strackbein of Sports Illustrated, the Steelers make sense as a future suitor for Mayfield, given the uncertainty of their Aaron Rodgers succession plan following the 2026 season.

“The Steelers would make a bid if Mayfield hits the open market if they find themselves in a situation close to this one: Will Howard and Drew Allar look impressive but still young,” Strackbein wrote. “They both appear to be on the verge of being ready but could use another season of preparing themselves and learning from Mike McCarthy and Tom Arth.

“The Steelers make the playoffs in 2026 and don’t look lost in the dance like they have in years past. They’re close. That means next year needs to be a sure thing. One more all-in season to figure it out. That’s when they look to Mayfield and see if he would be open to a one or two-year deal with big upside on the money side of things.”

Mayfield, who was selected by the Cleveland Browns with the first overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, underwent a career resurgence with the Buccaneers in 2023, earning back-to-back Pro Bowl selections and throwing for 12,237 yards and 92 touchdowns in the past three seasons with Tampa Bay.

If the Buccaneers can’t meet Mayfield’s desired contract amount by training camp, the revealed deadline, the talented quarterback could be available via 2027 free agency for the Steelers to send an offer.

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