Steelers' Omar Khan Definitely "Did Not Shut That Down" In Regards To Latest Veteran Quarterback Acquisition Via Trade

The Pittsburgh Steelers have many open holes on their roster that they must fill before they can begin to return to their winning ways. Fans are frustrated that President Art Rooney II and Head Coach Mike Tomlin are seemingly satisfied with maintaining their record of winning seasons. They want to see the Steelers start winning postseason games again to show some sign of progress. 

The Steelers moved on quickly from Kenny Pickett when they realized he wouldn't be the franchise's future. The possible replacements weren't endless, so they acquired Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. They both had opportunities to play last season, but they had their shortcomings. This means the Steelers have no clear answer about who should be under center in the upcoming season. The fan favorite appears to be Fields, but other names from outside the organization are popping up. One of the most intriguing is Matthew Stafford.   

At the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, General Manager Omar Khan told the media the team is exploring all options. He noted that finding the next quarterback is critical before filling in the surrounding supports. Steelers insider Mark Kaboly from The Pat McAfee Show was there and told his co-host Chris Mack on their podcast Kaboly and Mack that he was surprised that Khan didn't close the door on Stafford. 

"I think Matthew Stafford's way overpriced right now," said Kaboly. "I don't think that would have a chance to happen. Although, Omar did not shut that down. He could have easily said, 'Nah, we didn't talk to him either. That didn't happen as well.'"

Stafford has been with the Los Angeles Rams since 2021, when he helped them win a Super Bowl. The former first-overall pick is under contract with them through 2026. He is set to make close to $50 million in 2025, but feels he should be paid more. His agent was recently given permission to seek a trade for the 37-year-old. 

The potential trade has stirred up the rumor mills on both sides of the fence. Some are saying Stafford would never go to a team where he has to play outside. Others think Stafford is leveraging the time he has left playing. He will not want to waste a year being "underpaid" when he can go elsewhere and get closer to the approximate $60 million a year he is suspected of wanting.  

The price for Stafford might be high, but fans are reminded of how well Khan has negotiated other deals. Kaboly said previously that he wouldn't count him out. He may get them to come down in price and draft capital. In addition, other peripheral issues could be coming into play. Stafford demanded more money before the 2024 season, and the negotiations dragged on until nearly the start of camp. 

On top of that, Stafford's wife supposedly called the Rams owner to make her case for getting her husband paid more during last year's contract talks. She also shared some tales about going on in the Rams' locker room that angered some people. The whole thing may have soured Los Angeles on Stafford, which would work for the Steelers' benefit. 

Steelers Linked To Aaron Rodgers

To be fair, the Steelers have been linked to every quarterback who hasn't nailed down already. One of the other outside names that is coming up frequently is Aaron Rodgers. The New York Jets announced they would be moving on from the 41-year-old.  

Some fans see Rodgers as the best option, and they are hoping he brings Davante Adams with him. Others feel the Steelers have already done drama and big personalities with Wilson and George Pickens, and will not look to go down that route again. However, according to Khan, the door remains open to all of these possibilities. 

Do you think Stafford will end up in Pittsburgh? Tell us what you think below!

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