The Pittsburgh Steelers want to provide quarterback competition for Kenny Pickett going into the 2024 season, and it would ideally come from Mason Rudolph following his strong finish to the 2023 season. But with Rudolph set to become a free agent and there being no guarantees of him returning, they could set their sights on a veteran quarterback who has found success under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
That veteran is former Tennessee Titans starter Ryan Tannehill.
Tannehill would, in theory, seem to be a natural fit as a veteran presence in Pittsburgh. He could provide the type of competition the Steelers want to try and push Pickett, while he found his most professional success in Tennessee when Smith was his offensive coordinator.
It was during the 2019 and 2020 seasons that Tannehill put together his best seasons as a starting quarterback, helping lead the Titans to a pair of playoff spots and two top-10 finishes in scoring offense. When Smith left following the 2020 season to become head coach of the Falcons, the Titans offense — and Tannehill — took a major step backward.
With Rudolph about to become a free agent and Mitch Trubisky almost certainly destined to be a salary cap cut, Smith’s history — and success — with Tannehill could make him an intriguing short-term option. If nothing else he should give them an upgrade as a backup over Trubisky.
No matter who the offensive coordinator is the Steelers need to find a way to get more out of their quarterbacks if they are going to be anything more than a nine-or 10-win team that loses in the first round of the playoffs. Pickett did not take the step forward they were anticipating in year two, and he is now entering a make-or-break season with the team.
They have a lot of the necessary pieces on offense to have what should be a productive unit. Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren are a strong running back duo, while George Pickens, Diontae Johnson and tight end Pat Friermuth are a talented — even if inconsistent — group of pass catchers. Their offensive line also saw a big improvement when first-round pick Broderick Jones entered the starting lineup.
They just need better quarterback play to bring it together.
