NFL Insider: Steelers Are "Interested" In Vikings Quarterback Sam Darnold

The Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback situation isn’t just a major decision for the team. It’s one the entire NFL is watching. With Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold leading the free-agent market and several teams still searching for a starter in 2025, speculation is growing that the Steelers have legitimate interest in Darnold.

Of course, Pittsburgh’s two current options are Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Both quarterbacks had solid moments in 2024, but neither cemented themselves as the long-term answer. Fields is eager to test the market, and while Wilson brings experience, he’s aging and carries a hefty price tag. The idea of the Steelers paying top dollar for Darnold hasn’t been widely popular among fans, but it’s a real possibility they could explore.

Darnold’s market value is currently projected at $40.1 million—a steep price for a quarterback who, just a season ago, was seen as a backup. However, his strong performance in 2024 significantly boosted his stock. NFL insider Albert Breer reported Sunday in Sports Illustrated that the Steelers have shown interest in Darnold, adding fuel to the speculation. With Pittsburgh’s quarterback situation unsettled, the possibility of Darnold landing in the Steel City is becoming harder to ignore.

"While Aaron Rodgers is the biggest name, Sam Darnold will probably get the biggest deal on the quarterback market," Breer wrote. "The Vikings would like him back, but that ship looks like it’s now sailed. The Pittsburgh Steelers have interest."

Aaron Rodgers is another name that has been linked to the Steelers. Of course, Rodgers hasn’t been a popular option, mainly due to his age of 41 years old. However, some wonder if Mike Tomlin would have any interest in bringing him in. It’s no secret that Tomlin is a huge fan of Rodgers. He has a great deal of respect for the veteran quarterback and may believe they could build a strong 2025 season together.

Rodgers didn’t lead the New York Jets to the kind of winning season many expected, despite the abundance of talent on their offense. While he couldn’t translate that into consistent victories, his individual production was solid. In 2024, he threw for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions.

Still, Rodgers doesn’t seem like a realistic option for Pittsburgh. While he would likely come at a bargain price, the question remains whether he has anything left in the tank. At best, the future Hall of Famer could be a backup plan if the Steelers strike out on other quarterbacks.

Meanwhile, Darnold is coming off a career-best season, throwing for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in 2024. He played at an elite level and was even in the MVP conversation for most of the year. If the Steelers are looking for a fresh start at quarterback, Darnold seems like a far more likely target than Rodgers.

What hurt Darnold’s market was how he finished the season and performed in the playoffs. Many pundits believe he struggled to navigate the pocket, and it showed in key moments. While it initially seemed like that would significantly impact his value, the weak quarterback market has kept him as the top available option.

Steelers Could Take Massive Gamble On Darnold

Despite those late-season struggles, Darnold’s stock hasn’t taken as big of a hit as expected. With limited alternatives, teams in need of a quarterback may still be willing to pay up for him. His overall 2024 performance was strong enough to keep him in high demand.

Still, those two rough performances in the biggest moments linger in the minds of Steelers fans. As rumors swirl about Pittsburgh’s reported interest, many are left wondering if Darnold is truly the answer; or just another risky bet.

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