The 'If Ben Retires' Free Agency QB Thread

[DesertSteel]

Instead if continuing to post about free agents in the draft threads, I thought it'd be a good idea to post thoughts on FA QBs in a dedicated thread... you know... if Ben rides off after they win the Super Bowl. Included in the options should be QBs likely to be available via trade or release.

I've made my feelings known, but they are evolving.

A List:
Cousins
Keenum

B List:
A. Smith
T. Taylor
Bridgewater

C List:
Bradford

Wildcard: Eli. Looked like he would be available, but seems trending towards Giants keeping him. New regime and draft choice will determine. I'd put him on A list if available.

***NONE OF THESE GUYS ARE BEN! ANOTHER BEN ISN'T LIKELY FOR THE FORESEEABLE. BUT SOME OF THESE GUYS WOULD KEEP IN IN THE PLAYOFF HUNT UNTIL THE NEXT GREAT ONE COMES ALONG.

[Buckinnuts]

i would pass on all of them...draft and hope the rookie has a year or close to what Ben had in his rookie year

[DesertSteel]

i would pass on all of them...draft and hope the rookie has a year or close to what Ben had in his rookie year
Maybe you should buy a Power Ball ticket tonight since you're feeling so lucky! :D

[polamalubeast]

If we look at the price it would cost, I would take Eli Manning for 1 year or 2, but I do not think Roethlisberger will retire ....

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Maybe you should buy a Power Ball ticket tonight since you're feeling so lucky! :D Haha about right from where we will pick from.

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I think Keenum will be kept and out of the rest.
1. Cousins
2. Eli
3. Smith

As for the rest rather go with Dobbs!

[DesertSteel]

Are there any other quarterbacks that Jeff Fisher was head coach for that might be available???

[polamalubeast]

Are there any other quarterbacks that Jeff Fisher was head coach for that might be available???

Nick Foles?

[GBMelBlount]

Maybe you should buy a Power Ball ticket tonight since you're feeling so lucky! :D

Agreed.

I think we have a better shot winning lombardis with a talented veteran than through the draft.

I also think this team is so loaded wtih talent that we could attract a good FA QB who wants to win a Super Bowl.

[Buckinnuts]

Maybe you should buy a Power Ball ticket tonight since you're feeling so lucky! :D

I did...!...going to the Casino too!

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Are there any other quarterbacks that Jeff Fisher was head coach for that might be available??? Steve Mcnair ?

[43Hitman]

Steve Mcnair ?

Steve McNair was killed a few years ago by his girlfriend. RIP Steve

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Steve McNair was killed a few years ago by his girlfriend. RIP Steve I know. what to soon ?

[43Hitman]

I know. what to soon ?
I don't know how you would think he is available then. Yeah too soon, he was murdered in cold blood and was a great guy in the community.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

I don't know how you would think he is available then. Yeah too soon, he was murdered in cold blood and was a great guy in the community. I had him and fantasy football then. Yep was sad and crazy thing that happened to him.

[DesertSteel]

Agreed.

I think we have a better shot winning lombardis with a talented veteran than through the draft.

I also think this team is so loaded wtih talent that we could attract a good FA QB who wants to win a Super Bowl.
Unless we get Cousins or possibly Keenum (if he holds up), I’d say why not do both?!

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Unless we get Cousins or possibly Keenum (if he holds up), I’d say why not do both?! Agreed if we don't get either of the two then Eli or Alex and draft a QB as well. Keep Dobbs and part ways with Landry.

[steelreserve]

Since there are like 6 projected first-round talents at QB, this is the year to take one whether Ben's retiring or not. We wait and try a different year, it'll cost us an extra first-round draft pick over what we'd have to spend now (yes, even if we trade up in this draft). So basically - make the move now, gain a free first-round draft pick. Who but a crackhead wouldn't take that deal?

My thoughts on young QBs are that either they "get it" from day one and will make a good NFL player, or they don't get it from day one and they never will make a good NFL player. No reason to worry about "rushing" a rookie into the lineup, no veteran needed to be a seat-warmer for a couple throwaway seasons while the rest of the team gets older.

As far as available veterans, Eli is the only one I would touch. Keenum and Cousins are fool's gold - all you'll end up with there is a slightly above-average QB who's not good enough to actually win anything, on a 6-year, $120 million contract. Alex Smith is a joke, wouldn't want him at any price, he belongs on the F list. I guess Bridgewater could do in a pinch.

[DesertSteel]

I think that Cousins has proven he can deliver the rock for three years in a row. The only fools are the Redskins for not locking him up.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

This team is young and has the talent to compete for a few years. That is why I like going with a decent vet unless we have a top 15 pick of the draft which we won't. As for Cousins he hasn't played on a team with the offense talent we have. I would not rule him out.

[polamalubeast]

Cousins will cost at least 25-30 million per year on the open market.....

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

I think that Cousins has proven he can deliver the rock for three years in a row. The only fools are the Redskins for not locking him up. I think they don't care cause they don't have much talent on both sides of the ball to help him out.

[polamalubeast]

Drew Brees will also be a free agent,but the price will be also very high.....

[DesertSteel]

I think they don't care cause they don't have much talent on both sides of the ball to help him out.
That’s why they’re fools. You can’t win in this league without a franchise QB. If you have one don’t ever let them go. Just like the Saints will never let Brees go.

[GBMelBlount]

Unless we get Cousins or possibly Keenum (if he holds up), I’d say why not do both?!

You mean pick up a good FA QB & draft one early?

If so, I would be fine with that.

Anyone know how Dobbs is developing?

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

That’s why they’re fools. You can’t win in this league without a franchise QB. If you have one don’t ever let them go. Just like the Saints will never let Brees go. Good point about the Redskins. Agree Brees isn't leaving in free agency specially now since Saints have turn it around this year,

[Neversatisfied]

Since there are like 6 projected first-round talents at QB, this is the year to take one whether Ben's retiring or not. We wait and try a different year, it'll cost us an extra first-round draft pick over what we'd have to spend now (yes, even if we trade up in this draft). So basically - make the move now, gain a free first-round draft pick. Who but a crackhead wouldn't take that deal?

My thoughts on young QBs are that either they "get it" from day one and will make a good NFL player, or they don't get it from day one and they never will make a good NFL player. No reason to worry about "rushing" a rookie into the lineup, no veteran needed to be a seat-warmer for a couple throwaway seasons while the rest of the team gets older.

As far as available veterans, Eli is the only one I would touch. Keenum and Cousins are fool's gold - all you'll end up with there is a slightly above-average QB who's not good enough to actually win anything, on a 6-year, $120 million contract. Alex Smith is a joke, wouldn't want him at any price, he belongs on the F list. I guess Bridgewater could do in a pinch.

Agreed, draft a QB in the 1st round. If the Steelers see a franchise potential QB trade up

[BlackAndGold]

I think Ben returns. Even if Ben did retire, I believe his cap hit will still count towards the team, which would end any hope of signing a starting caliber QB.

[SteelerFanInStl]

I watched Keenum a lot when he was with the Rams. He's not a good QB. He's a lesser version of Alex Smith. All he does is dump the ball off all the time.

I really don't like any of those guys to be honest. Just draft a QB early and let him be a game manager with Bell, AB, JuJu, Marty, etc.

[polamalubeast]

I watched Keenum a lot when he was with the Rams. He's not a good QB. He's a lesser version of Alex Smith. All he does is dump the ball off all the time.

I really don't like any of those guys to be honest. Just draft a QB early and let him be a game manager with Bell, AB, JuJu, Marty, etc.

Keenum was with Jeff Fisher with the Rams....

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

I watched Keenum a lot when he was with the Rams. He's not a good QB. He's a lesser version of Alex Smith. All he does is dump the ball off all the time.

I really don't like any of those guys to be honest. Just draft a QB early and let him be a game manager with Bell, AB, JuJu, Marty, etc. QB early when we are probably picking 32nd and know Steelers hardly ever move up in the 1st rd. So who are we look at then ?

[SteelerFanInStl]

Keenum was with Jeff Fisher with the Rams....

And? He still looked bad. I've watched him this year with the Vikings also. He's not a good QB. All he ever does is dump it off. I'm going to LMAO at any team that gives him a big contract.

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QB early when we are probably picking 32nd and know Steelers hardly ever move up in the 1st rd. So who are we look at then ?

I'm not a college football guy so I'll leave that up to the scouting department.

[polamalubeast]

And? He still looked bad. I've watched him this year with the Vikings also. He's not a good QB. All he ever does is dump it off. I'm going to LMAO at any team that gives him a big contract.


I do not want Keenum to sign with us next year if Ben retire, but all the QBs that played under Jeff Fisher with the rams were bad....Did you see the offense of the rams this year compared to last year with Jeff Fisher?

His offense is outdated and Fisher has handcuffed too much his QB ....

[SteelerCountry58]

QB early when we are probably picking 32nd and know Steelers hardly ever move up in the 1st rd. So who are we look at then ?
After the 1st rd, you would probably have Luke Falk (Wash St.),Riley Ferguson (Memphis), Mason Rudolph (Ok.St.), Drew Lock (Missouri), Jarret Stidham(Auburn) etc.... if all declare.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

After the 1st rd, you would probably have Luke Falk (Wash St.),Riley Ferguson (Memphis), Mason Rudolph (Ok.St.), Drew Lock (Missouri), Jarret Stidham(Auburn) etc.... if all declare. Thanks!

[st33lersguy]

Draft someone early, sign someone strictly to be a backup, dump Landry, and let Dobbs and 2018 draft pick battle for a starting spot

[DesertSteel]

Draft someone early, sign someone strictly to be a backup, dump Landry, and let Dobbs and 2018 draft pick battle for a starting spot
That has 5-11 written all over it.

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And? He still looked bad. I've watched him this year with the Vikings also. He's not a good QB. All he ever does is dump it off. I'm going to LMAO at any team that gives him a big contract.


I've caught the Vikings about 6-7 times and your assessment on Keenum is way off IMO. I think it will come down to the Vikings and the Saints for the NFC.

[Mojouw]

Keenum would be not good in this offense. He does not throw deep well. Most of his deep passes are ducks that see his receivers bail him out.

Team needs a strong armed guy with no fear. Keenum is fearless, but not a big enough arm. If Ben rides off, my new hope is Eli. I don’t think Manning the younger is really all that good, but he has no fear going deep.


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[pczach]

I still believe Cousins is the best FA quarterback out there.

Eli needs a very strong supporting cast, and he does look like he's lost a lot of his game.

Cousins is still putting up good numbers on a team that is decimated with injuries. They have lost so many players to injury that he is literally carrying them in every game. No weapons, no running game, no offensive line. I think he has done a very good job with what he has to work with. He doesn't always come through at the end of games, but he has played well with much less than others.

I'm also not ready to dismiss Dobbs. I want to see what he can do if we get to see him play.

If Ben does retire and they go free agent, Cousins is who I want. Let Cousins play and keep developing Dobbs while drafting another developmental quarterback and release Landry Jones.

I think that's what I would do.

[Shoes]

I still believe Cousins is the best FA quarterback out there.

Eli needs a very strong supporting cast, and he does look like he's lost a lot of his game.

Cousins is still putting up good numbers on a team that is decimated with injuries. They have lost so many players to injury that he is literally carrying them in every game. No weapons, no running game, no offensive line. I think he has done a very good job with what he has to work with. He doesn't always come through at the end of games, but he has played well with much less than others.

I'm also not ready to dismiss Dobbs. I want to see what he can do if we get to see him play.

If Ben does retire and they go free agent, Cousins is who I want. Let Cousins play and keep developing Dobbs while drafting another developmental quarterback and release Landry Jones.

I think that's what I would do.

Agreed, I've always liked him as a player, quick feet also.

[st33lersguy]

Eli is older than Ben, why would we want to replace Ben with a qb older than him?

[cubanstogie]

what did the Browns offer for Mccarron? I really think he should be a starter in this league but I don't want to have to give a first rounder for the guy.

[Mojouw]

Eli is older than Ben, why would we want to replace Ben with a qb older than him?

Cousins will be the highest or second highest paid player in the league. For like 5 years. Look at how being tied to Flacco for big money for big years has done nothing good for the Ravens roster.

Eli gets you a shorter option to the actual solution. Plus his age will make him cheaper.

Do you really want to be a fan of the team that makes Cousins the highest paid player in the entire league? Then be tethered to that contract for 5 years?


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[steelreserve]

Cousins will be the highest or second highest paid player in the league. For like 5 years. Look at how being tied to Flacco for big money for big years has done nothing good for the Ravens roster.

Eli gets you a shorter option to the actual solution. Plus his age will make him cheaper.

Do you really want to be a fan of the team that makes Cousins the highest paid player in the entire league? Then be tethered to that contract for 5 years?


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ding ding ding

This is a huge reason why we don't want him.

Also, Cousins is a known quantity, and i don't think we want to go for "pretty good" in our next QB. Not at $25M a season. In fact, I'm pretty sure Ben's dead money if he retires would make it impossible to sign a QB for top money. Another reason why it'd be better to just draft one.

[st33lersguy]

Cousins will be the highest or second highest paid player in the league. For like 5 years. Look at how being tied to Flacco for big money for big years has done nothing good for the Ravens roster.

Eli gets you a shorter option to the actual solution. Plus his age will make him cheaper.

Do you really want to be a fan of the team that makes Cousins the highest paid player in the entire league? Then be tethered to that contract for 5 years?


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Where did I say I wanted cousins?

As for Eli, he may be about finished anyway, and at best you are looking at having to Start over in the qb search in a year or 2

[Mojouw]

Where did I say I wanted cousins?

As for Eli, he may be about finished anyway, and at best you are looking at having to Start over in the qb search in a year or 2

Fair enough. Was just responding to the general talk that Cousins would be the ideal FA QB from the list provided.


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[DesertSteel]

I'd want Cousins. Gee we might have to pay for a top 10 quarterback. Or we could be the Browns.

[Hawkman]

I'd want Cousins. Gee we might have to pay for a top 10 quarterback. Or we could be the Browns.

No, we couldn’t be the Browns.:sofunny:

[pczach]

Cousins will be the highest or second highest paid player in the league. For like 5 years. Look at how being tied to Flacco for big money for big years has done nothing good for the Ravens roster.

Eli gets you a shorter option to the actual solution. Plus his age will make him cheaper.

Do you really want to be a fan of the team that makes Cousins the highest paid player in the entire league? Then be tethered to that contract for 5 years?


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I hear you.

The problem is that any free agent QB that everyone knows can play a little bit will be worth at least $17-18 million dollars on the open market....and this includes absolute dogshit quarterbacks which give you no chance to win consistently or make a Super Bowl run. Any "decent" quarterback is going to demand close to $20 mil.

To me, Eli is done...and if he does have anything left, it would be a very, very small window. I truly believe that Cousins is a much better quarterback than Eli right now. Paying a ton of money to an old quarterback that isn't nearly as good as our last quarterback and older just leaves the team in the same situation in a few years, but all the other talent on the team has aged and may not be good enough to compete at a high level. You would be starting all over again with an older, more expensive roster. I think if you go FA and want to go for it with a talented roster, you have to take the best QB available. I know not everyone agrees with who that is, but right now it's Cousins by a mile IMO. Also, you never know. He has made a fortune with the Redskins over the last few years. He may be willing to take a more reasonable offer to play for a great organization that competes for championships.

If they did get Eli, I guess the question then becomes....Do you really want to be the fan of the team that signs a near 40-year-old quarterback that can't play anymore for $18.5 million a year and be standing in a worse position one or two years later?

I still love drafting a QB. It is, and always will be the best and cheapest way to get good very quickly, while freeing up cap space to strengthen the roster everywhere else for a few years. However, the trick is finding one worthy to lead your franchise. Free agency gives you more of a known quantity, but it limits you financially....so if you sign one for big money.....he better be very good.

I really don't have all the answers either. This is all just opinion and speculation. I just think it's even more dangerous to sign Eli than it is to sign Cousins.

Clearly, the best case scenario is to find a quality QB through the draft process.

[Born2Steel]

I have 2-part hopes on this subject. First part is I hope Ben stays for another 2-3 seasons. The second part is that when Ben does retire, Dobbs moves in and we continue seamlessly. Yes, I understand the odds, that is why it's called hope.

As for drafting, there are 6-10 QBs that would be worth taking in this draft, if all declare. And probably another 3-5 that I'm not thinking of that will make a team. So that option is always there.

On the FA front, there is not another Ben. With this oline though, a strong accurate arm that can make all the throws, the ability to run the play called, and mobile enough to make a play with his feet if the play breaks down. I think I may know of a guy.

[DesertSteel]

Apparently, we aren't the only ones thinking about a Steelers--Cousins connection if Ben retires...


​If Ben Roethlisberger decides to retire -- he's still playing at a high level -- then the Pittsburgh Steelers would be attractive. Cousins has remained close with Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell, a former Michigan State teammate. The Steelers have a winning organization. That final word can't be stressed enough; it's about a culture, not just a coach.

http://www.espn.com/blog/washington-redskins/post/_/id/35166/kirk-cousins-on-the-future-i-want-to-be-associated-with-winning

[Mojouw]

I hear you.

The problem is that any free agent QB that everyone knows can play a little bit will be worth at least $17-18 million dollars on the open market....and this includes absolute dogshit quarterbacks which give you no chance to win consistently or make a Super Bowl run. Any "decent" quarterback is going to demand close to $20 mil.

To me, Eli is done...and if he does have anything left, it would be a very, very small window. I truly believe that Cousins is a much better quarterback than Eli right now. Paying a ton of money to an old quarterback that isn't nearly as good as our last quarterback and older just leaves the team in the same situation in a few years, but all the other talent on the team has aged and may not be good enough to compete at a high level. You would be starting all over again with an older, more expensive roster. I think if you go FA and want to go for it with a talented roster, you have to take the best QB available. I know not everyone agrees with who that is, but right now it's Cousins by a mile IMO. Also, you never know. He has made a fortune with the Redskins over the last few years. He may be willing to take a more reasonable offer to play for a great organization that competes for championships.

If they did get Eli, I guess the question then becomes....Do you really want to be the fan of the team that signs a near 40-year-old quarterback that can't play anymore for $18.5 million a year and be standing in a worse position one or two years later?

I still love drafting a QB. It is, and always will be the best and cheapest way to get good very quickly, while freeing up cap space to strengthen the roster everywhere else for a few years. However, the trick is finding one worthy to lead your franchise. Free agency gives you more of a known quantity, but it limits you financially....so if you sign one for big money.....he better be very good.

I really don't have all the answers either. This is all just opinion and speculation. I just think it's even more dangerous to sign Eli than it is to sign Cousins.

Clearly, the best case scenario is to find a quality QB through the draft process.

I honestly agree with all of that but was not clear in my original comment. I am for the “sign a FA QB” only as a bridge to the the drafted next franchise QB. For that reason, I don’t really mind Eli’s age and declining skill set. I want him to be a competent to above average QB for 1-2 seasons and then let the younger franchise draft prospect take over.

[DesertSteel]

I honestly agree with all of that but was not clear in my original comment. I am for the “sign a FA QB” only as a bridge to the the drafted next franchise QB. For that reason, I don’t really mind Eli’s age and declining skill set. I want him to be a competent to above average QB for 1-2 seasons and then let the younger franchise draft prospect take over.
I agree with that plan for Eli. Not likely he will be available. Cousins would be more than a bridge. I realize you don't like him, but with our receivers/o-line he could take it to the next level. Alex Smith would be another bridge.

[Rotorhead]

I would take Alex Smith, he has a decent deep ball this season (not sure why KC never uses it, but when they did earlier this season he was on target and they were winning). With our weapons he would be more than enough to get to the playoffs and if our defense improves from this year to next year we would be a contender with Smith. He is smart, mobile and an accurate passer.

[DesertSteel]

I would take Alex Smith, he has a decent deep ball this season (not sure why KC never uses it, but when they did earlier this season he was on target and they were winning). With our weapons he would be more than enough to get to the playoffs and if our defense improves from this year to next year we would be a contender with Smith. He is smart, mobile and an accurate passer.
Agree. He gets a lot of hate on here but Alex Smith is better than every Steelers quarterback in history not named Ben or Terry.

[FrancoLambert]

Living in the metro NY-NJ area I get to see a lot of Eli......he's done. No zip on the ball and the long ball (once a strength for him) is gone.

My first choice, although very expensive, would be Cousins.
Then, Alex Smith.
With the supporting cast we have, I believe these two could keep us in solid contention until Dobbs develops....if he does.

[Slimdugger99]

Colin Kaepernick, he deserves a shot on a good team.


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[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Agree. He gets a lot of hate on here but Alex Smith is better than every Steelers quarterback in history not named Ben or Terry.

I don't really agree with this. Smith seems to have always played in some kind of ball control, west coast offense derivation. Some Steelers that could sling it downfield and did like Bubby, O'Donnell, even Tommy Maddox are guys that could bring a team back from a deficit. I see Alex Smith as a modern day Mike Tomczak.

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Colin Kaepernick, he deserves a shot on a good team.


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No thanks. He was suspect as a thrower coming out of Nevada and isn't much better now IMO. Long throwing motion, not great accuracy, not a comfortable passer in the pocket and going thru reads, but rather is best throwing in rhythm and if nothing there then run the football. I think he is strictly an experienced backup, but doesn't fit the Steelers.

[DesertSteel]

I don't really agree with this. Smith seems to have always played in some kind of ball control, west coast offense derivation. Some Steelers that could sling it downfield and did like Bubby, O'Donnell, even Tommy Maddox are guys that could bring a team back from a deficit. I see Alex Smith as a modern day Mike Tomczak.

I know it's not all stats but which years did any of those guys have 26/5 TD/INT, over 4,000 yards, 68% Comp and 8 YPA?

Tomczak's best year with the Steelers was 15/17 TD/INT for 2700 yards and 55% Comp.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

I know it's not all stats but which years did any of those guys have 26/5 TD/INT, over 4,000 yards, 68% Comp and 8 YPA?

Tomczak's best year with the Steelers was 15/17 TD/INT for 2700 yards and 55% Comp.

I agree, Tomczak never had those kind of numbers, but the year that you reference, the 1996 Steelers went 10-6 to the wildcard round with that game manager, just like Alex Smith will do with this years Chefs and their bubble screen, west coast offense that Andy Reid uses. IMO, both Smith and Tomczak are guys without a vertical passing game, that take care of the football, seem to play like they are afraid of making a mistake and would not know how to engineer a come from behind win if they were given a blueprint from Elway, Montana, Ben and Brady.

If Alex Smith had any kind of stones, he would not have wilted so badly vs the Steelers in the playoffs last season. Beating the Chiefs is simple, you just take away the run and take away Smith's #1 receiving threat and make Alex Smith try to beat you...because he hasn't shown he can do that anywhere. I just wouldn't want a guy that plays so afraid of making a mistake to be the QB of my favorite team.

[DesertSteel]

I agree, Tomczak never had those kind of numbers, but the year that you reference, the 1996 Steelers went 10-6 to the wildcard round with that game manager, just like Alex Smith will do with this years Chefs and their bubble screen, west coast offense that Andy Reid uses. IMO, both Smith and Tomczak are guys without a vertical passing game, that take care of the football, seem to play like they are afraid of making a mistake and would not know how to engineer a come from behind win if they were given a blueprint from Elway, Montana, Ben and Brady.

Well... let's see... Ben has 52 passes of 20+ yards and 14 passes of 40+; meanwhile Smith has 52/13 respectively.

I've seen Smith throw some nice deep balls this year so I'm not buying that he can't get it down the field.



If Alex Smith had any kind of stones, he would not have wilted so badly vs the Steelers in the playoffs last season. Beating the Chiefs is simple, you just take away the run and take away Smith's #1 receiving threat and make Alex Smith try to beat you...because he hasn't shown he can do that anywhere. I just wouldn't want a guy that plays so afraid of making a mistake to be the QB of my favorite team.
Don't turn me into an Alex Smith apologist, but should we talk about the times Ben has wilted against the Pats? Smith seems to do pretty well against them.

I'm not saying he's top 5, but he's probably in the 10-13 area. That's not a terrible landing place for a team that's otherwise loaded. Especially if he's only a placeholder.

[polamalubeast]

This year is the best season of Alex Smith's career, but rarely Smith make his team better and I do not want a conservative QB with Todd Haley....This is the last thing I want ....

[43Hitman]

I still believe Cousins is the best FA quarterback out there.

Eli needs a very strong supporting cast, and he does look like he's lost a lot of his game.

Cousins is still putting up good numbers on a team that is decimated with injuries. They have lost so many players to injury that he is literally carrying them in every game. No weapons, no running game, no offensive line. I think he has done a very good job with what he has to work with. He doesn't always come through at the end of games, but he has played well with much less than others.

I'm also not ready to dismiss Dobbs. I want to see what he can do if we get to see him play.

If Ben does retire and they go free agent, Cousins is who I want. Let Cousins play and keep developing Dobbs while drafting another developmental quarterback and release Landry Jones.

I think that's what I would do.
Yep, me too. Cousins is the guy I would want, I've watched him play since his Michigan St. days. I see him all the time locally as well since I live in Va., and he can play some ball. He has shit around him and ownership that has no clue in what its doing. He would thrive here in my opinion.

[teegre]

IMO, go with Dobbs, but surround him with a boatload of talent (add a TE, an O-lineman, and a stingy defense).

[polamalubeast]

Dobbs is the most overrated current Steelers at the moment ....

if he is our starter next year, this is the white flag for the steelers ....

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But you changed my mind about Kurt Cousins .....

The only reason I did not want Cousins was its price, but I'd rather give 25 million to him(Of course, his cap hit will need to be lower in the early years) than 15-20 million a year to others ....

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Well... let's see... Ben has 52 passes of 20+ yards and 14 passes of 40+; meanwhile Smith has 52/13 respectively.

I've seen Smith throw some nice deep balls this year so I'm not buying that he can't get it down the field.


Don't turn me into an Alex Smith apologist, but should we talk about the times Ben has wilted against the Pats? Smith seems to do pretty well against them.

I'm not saying he's top 5, but he's probably in the 10-13 area. That's not a terrible landing place for a team that's otherwise loaded. Especially if he's only a placeholder.

With regards to Alex Smith pushing the ball downfield.....we have what, 12 seasons of him in the NFL and that is not what he is known for. I really don't see the desire for a game manager that could not get things done when needed to and was replaced by Colin Kaeperneck, now they thing so much of him they traded up for Mahomes?? One mans trash is another treasure, but it seems like Smith has been a few peoples trash. I'd still pass.

As for Ben not getting it done vs the Pats, I really seem to remember a lot of those games the Steelers defense could not stop the short passing game of New England, so Ben and the offense was constantly in a shootout. was it Ben's fault they cant get over the Pats? ....yet he helped the team to 3 Super Bowls and won 2??

I credit Alex Smith for doing a great job of getting paid, but he has played his career like a 2nd-3rd round pick QB and not the #1 overall pick. I personally would prefer Cousins over Smith

[DesertSteel]

With regards to Alex Smith pushing the ball downfield.....we have what, 12 seasons of him in the NFL and that is not what he is known for. I really don't see the desire for a game manager that could not get things done when needed to and was replaced by Colin Kaeperneck, now they thing so much of him they traded up for Mahomes?? One mans trash is another treasure, but it seems like Smith has been a few peoples trash. I'd still pass.

As for Ben not getting it done vs the Pats, I really seem to remember a lot of those games the Steelers defense could not stop the short passing game of New England, so Ben and the offense was constantly in a shootout. was it Ben's fault they cant get over the Pats? ....yet he helped the team to 3 Super Bowls and won 2??

I credit Alex Smith for doing a great job of getting paid, but he has played his career like a 2nd-3rd round pick QB and not the #1 overall pick. I personally would prefer Cousins over Smith
Seems that's all you can rely on: "What he's not known for."

Some quarterbacks actually get better with age and/or systems.

[st33lersguy]

What Alex Smith would cost, he isn't worth. He's just not that good and has never elevated a team

[salamander]

I would take Cousins in a heartbeat but his asking price is going to WAY too high.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Read a article the other day about Cousins. He said he wants to play for a winner and they said don't be surprise if he would take less money. They listed Pittsburgh as probably top choice if Ben retires.

[Steelermania]

Read a article the other day about Cousins. He said he wants to play for a winner and they said don't be surprise if he would take less money. They listed Pittsburgh as probably top choice if Ben retires.

His agent won't let him take less money. Also, who do you let walk because you no longer have enough space under the cap?

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Seems that's all you can rely on: "What he's not known for."

Some quarterbacks actually get better with age and/or systems.

I guess that when I see a 13 year veteran QB, I pretty much think that he not longer has much upside and he is what he is. It seems like he is a system guy and fits Andy Reids system, so I really question if he would work for todd haley

[Bluecoat96]

Here's some fuel for the fire. Since the media has resurrected the Haley/Ben feud again, do you ever think Ben would say, "Either he goes or I retire?" I don't really believe the feud is what has been reported, but I do feel Ben has a tendency to be Petty when he's pissed off at someone.

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[DesertSteel]

I guess that when I see a 13 year veteran QB, I pretty much think that he not longer has much upside and he is what he is. It seems like he is a system guy and fits Andy Reids system, so I really question if he would work for todd haley
Just another reason to FIRE TODD HALEY lol

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Just another reason to FIRE TODD HALEY lol

Well.....Hue Jackson or Bruce Arians might be on the market as possible OC at the end of the season? :stirthepot:

[DesertSteel]

Well.....Hue Jackson or Bruce Arians might be on the market as possible OC at the end of the season? :stirthepot:
HJ might be an interesting option...........

[Hawkman]

Well.....Hue Jackson or Bruce Arians might be on the market as possible OC at the end of the season? :stirthepot:

Nix would be gone in a heartbeat if BA came back......and yes I know you are just stirring the shit.

- - - Updated - - -

....or should I say Nix would be nixed........come on....that’s a little funny.

[Psycho Ward 86]

Well.....Hue Jackson or Bruce Arians might be on the market as possible OC at the end of the season? :stirthepot:

I think it can be said with dead seriousness that Hue Jackson as our OC sounds pretty awesome

[Buckinnuts]

ok state mason rudolph looked pretty good against v tech last night...that my guy to draft this year...B A ..back in burgh....maybe haley to get coaching job not likely but stranger things have hwppened

[DesertSteel]

Maybe someone could change their user name to Hire_Bruce_Arians

[teegre]

ok state mason rudolph looked pretty good against v tech last night...that my guy to draft this year...B A ..back in burgh....maybe haley to get coaching job not likely but stranger things have hwppened

My gut keeps telling me that Mason Rudolph ends up with the Steelers.

[polamalubeast]

My gut keeps telling me that Mason Rudolph ends up with the Steelers.

with their first round pick?...maybe a trade up?

[teegre]

I think it can be said with dead seriousness that Hue Jackson as our OC sounds pretty awesome

YES!!! Kind of like how Norv Turner sucked as a HC, but every QB/offense flourished when he was the OC.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

My gut keeps telling me that Mason Rudolph ends up with the Steelers.

Another 4th round pick of a backup QB......I hope not.

[Buckinnuts]

My gut keeps telling me that Mason Rudolph ends up with the Steelers.

Least i aint the only one..i think kid has potential unlike what we have now

[DesertSteel]

Here we are talking about the draft in the free agency thread. Brb.... going to draft thread to post about free agents...

[jens.karlsson.14]

I have not read much about Dobbs? Not here nor on different media.. Anyone know how he is doing on the practice field? And why don't they try him as much or more than Jones? I dont get it, is there no future in Dobbs? If Ben plays another year (which btw will depend on getting the ring or not i believe) why couldn't Dobbs be the guy?

Skickat från min F5121 via Tapatalk

[Born2Steel]

Here we are talking about the draft in the free agency thread. Brb.... going to draft thread to post about free agents...

It is also 'If Ben Retires' thread, and 'QB thread', and 'free agent QB' thread. If only the latter, kinda boring to talk about.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Here we are talking about the draft in the free agency thread. Brb.... going to draft thread to post about free agents...

I now hold you in higher esteem than previously. :wink:

[Buckinnuts]

far as i am concerned i dont believe there is a free agent qb worth talking about...and from what i see out of the bowl games so far only 1 or 2 stand out so far

[Shoes]

I have not read much about Dobbs? Not here nor on different media.. Anyone know how he is doing on the practice field? And why don't they try him as much or more than Jones? I dont get it, is there no future in Dobbs? If Ben plays another year (which btw will depend on getting the ring or not i believe) why couldn't Dobbs be the guy?

Skickat från min F5121 via Tapatalk

Hej Jens, Dobbs is pretty raw but that doesn't mean he won't work out. I could see him as possible #2 next season but really find it difficult to believe they would make him the #1 if Ben retired. If the Steelers win the SB and Ben retires all the pieces are there to make another run if you have the QB, I just don't see Dobbs there yet. I believe Dobbs will dress for the game tomorrow, who know Jones might be huts on the first play.

Gott Nytt År!

[jens.karlsson.14]

Mhmm makes sense i guess. Just not a big fan of Jones and would love to see Dobbs. We'll see! Gott Nytt år!

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[Born2Steel]

Landry Jones against the Browns week 17.

23/27, 239yards, 1TD, 1INT, 1Lost Fumble

[Shoes]

Landry Jones against the Browns week 17.

23/27, 239yards, 1TD, 1INT, 1Lost Fumble

Not bad for Jones, first real playing time in bad conditions. The fumble was not really all on him, the pick, maybe. I thought he did pretty good.

[polamalubeast]

Not bad for Jones, first real playing time in bad conditions. The fumble was not really all on him, the pick, maybe. I thought he did pretty good.

It was a good game for him outside of his horrible INT....The steelers had not a true center in the second half yesterday too...

[Shoes]

It was a good game for him outside of his horrible INT....The steelers had not a true center in the second half yesterday too...


Good point, Hubbard seemed to be fine early on, but then started to have issues snapping the ball. Not a easy day for him either, still did pretty well filling in.

[polamalubeast]

The steelers need to sign a backup center in the next few days if the injuries of our backup center is serious....

[GoSlash27]

Shoes,
The pick, *definitely*. That was a highly irresponsible throw.

As for the rest of it, I don't see how the Steelers don't run with Jones if Ben retires. I mean, sure... they'll evaluate other talent and bring in somebody new to back him up, but in the short term aren't they kinda stuck with him in the #1 spot?

Not making any statement of fact, mind you. Honestly curious.

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Shoes,
The pick, *definitely*. That was a highly irresponsible throw.

As for the rest of it, I don't see how the Steelers don't run with Jones if Ben retires. I mean, sure... they'll evaluate other talent and bring in somebody new to back him up, but in the short term aren't they kinda stuck with him in the #1 spot?

Not making any statement of fact, mind you. Honestly curious.

[hawaiiansteeler]

As for the rest of it, I don't see how the Steelers don't run with Jones if Ben retires.

http://cdn.meme.am/instances/500x/56754531.jpg

[Shoes]

Shoes,
The pick, *definitely*. That was a highly irresponsible throw.

As for the rest of it, I don't see how the Steelers don't run with Jones if Ben retires. I mean, sure... they'll evaluate other talent and bring in somebody new to back him up, but in the short term aren't they kinda stuck with him in the #1 spot?

Not making any statement of fact, mind you. Honestly curious.

- - - Updated - - -

Shoes,
The pick, *definitely*. That was a highly irresponsible throw.

As for the rest of it, I don't see how the Steelers don't run with Jones if Ben retires. I mean, sure... they'll evaluate other talent and bring in somebody new to back him up, but in the short term aren't they kinda stuck with him in the #1 spot?

Not making any statement of fact, mind you. Honestly curious.

I'll give Jones a pass on that pick considering the amount of playing time he has had and the conditions. The Steelers may just run with Jones if Ben retires, he's a smart guy and Ben himself has said he understands the O as good or better than him. I just don't see the Steelers stretching for a QB this year. Maybe Cousins? Then again Ben may return.

[Mojouw]

Ok. Maybe this belongs here. Looked into it and found out that retirements work the same as releases/trades for salary cap purposes.

So Prior to June 1 - Ben would count $12.4 million saving roughly $11 million against this years and next years cap. After June 1, Ben counts $6.2 million this year and next. Freeing up $17 million dollars.

The problem is that post June 1 number is well after the start of the league year. At the start of the league year, the Steelers would have to Franchise Bell, sign FA's, get a draft class, etc. So in order to get a "name" FA QB - Ben has to retire prior to June 1. So that 2018 $2 million and change in cap room becomes say around $13.5 million. What do they have to do with that #?

1. Bell's 2018 tag would be $14.5 million - an increase of 2.4 million and change - round to 2.5. So now their is $11 million in cap space.
2. Take off 6 million for a draft class. Now there is $5 million remaining cap space.
3. Take out an in-season contingency of $3 million. Now there is $2 million in space remaining.
4. Okay. Now you throw in some cuts. McDonald ($4.3 million), Wilcox ($3.1 million), and Mitchell ($6.4 million) go. That brings things up to a total of $16.8 million dollars.
5. Say a few restructures and a few other cap shenanigans to take care of RFAs like Chikillo and what-not and let's figure there is $16 million in space.

If, in our role as GM, we're going to go out and get a FA QB to lead our team - after all that is why Roethlisberger's retirement was put through prior to June 1 - lets take a look at the popular choices:

1. Cousins $26-30 million per year
2. Taylor $18-22 million per year
3. Alex Smith $20-24 million
5. Eli Manning $20-25 million per year

So that leaves us somewhere between $4 and $14 million short! That is just in 2018 - no looking at what the cap ramifications are moving forward! So who goes?
1. Ramon Foster gets you $2.7 million
2. Marcus Gilbert gets you $4 million
3. Gay nets $1.7 million
4. Sensabaugh gets $1.4 million
5. Robert Golden nets you $1.5 million

Those cuts get you about $11.3 million or so. Hopefully $27.3 million is enough to go out and get a QB in a bidding war. Remember, Mike Glennon cost $16 million last year!

That still means you have ONE safety on the roster. 3 OLBS (Dupree/Watt/CHickillo) No swing tackle (Hawkins replaces Gilbert). No interior depth (Finney replaces Foster). This goes on and on. But it pretty much means your draft class is NOT BPA, but based SOLELY ON NEED and they all have to hit or your roster is going to be hella thin!

Not a rosy picture is it? Now there is one extremely sad and mercenary thing that changes this picture: Cut Ryan Shazier and save $8 million dollars. Additionally, just wave "Bye" to Leveon Bell. Those two moves alone would "pay" for a QB.

All this is fascinating "what if" stuff. But the only point I am trying to put out for consideration is that it will NOT be easy to get to the cap space needed to sign a QB. Of course, there is a high possibility that I have not worked through this properly and some of my starting points are off.

[DesertSteel]

Nice writeup. I really don't think Taylor gets anywhere near 18-22. He accepted a pay cut this year to stay a starter and has had a worse year than the one before. He goes for $12-14 without a lot of guaranteed. That said, not saying I'd want him. If Taylor goes for 20 then Keenum should go for 25 lol.

No matter what, a team only goes as far as the QB takes them and while you can go cheap on other positions, the only way to go cheap at QB is to get lucky in the draft.

[st33lersguy]

Ok. Maybe this belongs here. Looked into it and found out that retirements work the same as releases/trades for salary cap purposes.

So Prior to June 1 - Ben would count $12.4 million saving roughly $11 million against this years and next years cap. After June 1, Ben counts $6.2 million this year and next. Freeing up $17 million dollars.

The problem is that post June 1 number is well after the start of the league year. At the start of the league year, the Steelers would have to Franchise Bell, sign FA's, get a draft class, etc. So in order to get a "name" FA QB - Ben has to retire prior to June 1. So that 2018 $2 million and change in cap room becomes say around $13.5 million. What do they have to do with that #?

1. Bell's 2018 tag would be $14.5 million - an increase of 2.4 million and change - round to 2.5. So now their is $11 million in cap space.
2. Take off 6 million for a draft class. Now there is $5 million remaining cap space.
3. Take out an in-season contingency of $3 million. Now there is $2 million in space remaining.
4. Okay. Now you throw in some cuts. McDonald ($4.3 million), Wilcox ($3.1 million), and Mitchell ($6.4 million) go. That brings things up to a total of $16.8 million dollars.
5. Say a few restructures and a few other cap shenanigans to take care of RFAs like Chikillo and what-not and let's figure there is $16 million in space.

If, in our role as GM, we're going to go out and get a FA QB to lead our team - after all that is why Roethlisberger's retirement was put through prior to June 1 - lets take a look at the popular choices:

1. Cousins $26-30 million per year
2. Taylor $18-22 million per year
3. Alex Smith $20-24 million
5. Eli Manning $20-25 million per year

So that leaves us somewhere between $4 and $14 million short! That is just in 2018 - no looking at what the cap ramifications are moving forward! So who goes?
1. Ramon Foster gets you $2.7 million
2. Marcus Gilbert gets you $4 million
3. Gay nets $1.7 million
4. Sensabaugh gets $1.4 million
5. Robert Golden nets you $1.5 million

Those cuts get you about $11.3 million or so. Hopefully $27.3 million is enough to go out and get a QB in a bidding war. Remember, Mike Glennon cost $16 million last year!

That still means you have ONE safety on the roster. 3 OLBS (Dupree/Watt/CHickillo) No swing tackle (Hawkins replaces Gilbert). No interior depth (Finney replaces Foster). This goes on and on. But it pretty much means your draft class is NOT BPA, but based SOLELY ON NEED and they all have to hit or your roster is going to be hella thin!

Not a rosy picture is it? Now there is one extremely sad and mercenary thing that changes this picture: Cut Ryan Shazier and save $8 million dollars. Additionally, just wave "Bye" to Leveon Bell. Those two moves alone would "pay" for a QB.

All this is fascinating "what if" stuff. But the only point I am trying to put out for consideration is that it will NOT be easy to get to the cap space needed to sign a QB. Of course, there is a high possibility that I have not worked through this properly and some of my starting points are off.

All of that for a guy who will probably end up being mediocre anyway. Another reason draft pick is a better idea

[steelreserve]

All of this is shaping up ominously like if Ben retires, we will end up with Jay Cutler, the "big-name" QB at half the price.

[j-d-s]

Remember, Mike Glennon cost $16 million last year!

To be fair, the Bears Front Office probably is the worst ever after the Browns. Giving Glennon 16 million is nuts, but then still trading up one spot to get Trubisky is really unbelievable.

Maybe we should trade Landry Jones to the Bears? :chuckle:

[cubanstogie]

hopefully Ben plays another 2-3, not counting in it though. The odds say Brady at 41 next year cannot keep up his unreal play, not counting on the odds of that either. Besides Pats, there are no other teams that I see dominating. It is the prime time for Steelers to win some SB's. I feel like if Ben retires it just wastes the talents of LB, AB, MB, JuJu having a second rate free agent, or a draft pick who probably takes a couple of years to produce. Hopefully Ben doesn't do what he did last year, the night he gets his SB mvp trophy I really hope he says he is coming back.

[Mojouw]

Nice writeup. I really don't think Taylor gets anywhere near 18-22. He accepted a pay cut this year to stay a starter and has had a worse year than the one before. He goes for $12-14 without a lot of guaranteed. That said, not saying I'd want him. If Taylor goes for 20 then Keenum should go for 25 lol.

No matter what, a team only goes as far as the QB takes them and while you can go cheap on other positions, the only way to go cheap at QB is to get lucky in the draft.


To be fair, the Bears Front Office probably is the worst ever after the Browns. Giving Glennon 16 million is nuts, but then still trading up one spot to get Trubisky is really unbelievable.

Maybe we should trade Landry Jones to the Bears? :chuckle:

http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/contracts/quarterback/

Take a look at that list - it is scary! Basically if you are NOT on a rookie deal and you are a "starting" QB in the NFL you will be paid at least $15 million per year. As for the projected values of the QBs, it isn't about what the production #'s say - it is about supply and demand.

Take a look at the guys on this list and play around with the "Market Value" tool - http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/free-agents/quarterback/. This site has been roughly accurate in the past. Just think, Kirk Cousins is about to be the highest paid QB in the league!

I want absolutely no part of that!

Plus the Steelers cap situation in 2018 and beyond is really not all that good. Now after 2018 things look good on the surface - high amount of projected cap space, but the kicker is that is with not anywhere near the right # of guys under contract. So, cap juggling is going to start again real soon. And it will MOST likely mean some painful cuts no matter what, but throw in a high $$$ FA QB and those cuts are gonna get ugly real quick.

[Born2Steel]

It's not about getting the best QB in the draft when you're drafting for a team that is already built, like the Steelers. You draft the best QB for the Steelers. That guy may or may not be considered the best of his class. The best QB to lead this team may rate as a 3rd rounder by most of the analysts. You have to go get him. Make sure he's a Steeler.

Look at it this way. For our divisional round game, either Jones or Dobbs is your QB. Have you already folded up your tent and moved on to next season at that thought? Then the obvious answer is yes, we have to draft a QB, the right QB.

[GoSlash27]

Mojouw's write-up just reinforces my suspicion; not only would it be risky to replace Jones with an unknown, it's also fiscally unreasonable. Moreover, making drastic changes to go fishing for the next franchise QB in a season where that QB is simply not there isn't how the Steelers FO operates.

No. If worst comes to worst, I think they will hand the reins over to Jones and keep an even keel until a better prospect comes along and is given time to develop in the system. The Steelers lean towards a pragmatic, long-term view where it comes to team building. Never rebuild, reload. My cloudy, cracked, and often incorrect crystal ball says "get used to the idea of Landry Jones".

- - - Updated - - -

Mojouw's write-up just reinforces my suspicion; not only would it be risky to replace Jones with an unknown, it's also fiscally unreasonable. Moreover, making drastic changes to go fishing for the next franchise QB in a season where that QB is simply not there isn't how the Steelers FO operates.

No. If worst comes to worst, I think they will hand the reins over to Jones and keep an even keel until a better prospect comes along and is given time to develop in the system. The Steelers lean towards a pragmatic, long-term view where it comes to team building. Never rebuild, reload. My cloudy, cracked, and often incorrect crystal ball says "get used to the idea of Landry Jones".

[DesertSteel]

http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/contracts/quarterback/

Take a look at that list - it is scary! Basically if you are NOT on a rookie deal and you are a "starting" QB in the NFL you will be paid at least $15 million per year. As for the projected values of the QBs, it isn't about what the production #'s say - it is about supply and demand.

Take a look at the guys on this list and play around with the "Market Value" tool - http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/free-agents/quarterback/. This site has been roughly accurate in the past. Just think, Kirk Cousins is about to be the highest paid QB in the league!

I want absolutely no part of that!

Plus the Steelers cap situation in 2018 and beyond is really not all that good. Now after 2018 things look good on the surface - high amount of projected cap space, but the kicker is that is with not anywhere near the right # of guys under contract. So, cap juggling is going to start again real soon. And it will MOST likely mean some painful cuts no matter what, but throw in a high $$$ FA QB and those cuts are gonna get ugly real quick.
Big dollars for the QB are the economics of the NFL. The thing with Taylor is that he is still in the "prove it" phase and would likely take the 3/45 deal with about 18 guaranteed. Again.......... not saying I'd want him, but I wouldn't rule him out either like a lot of guys on here who think we're getting the next Dan Marino off the street.

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As for Landry Jones... he'll either show he can be the guy or get us a high draft pick, so that may be the FO's thinking.

[GoSlash27]

It's not about getting the best QB in the draft when you're drafting for a team that is already built, like the Steelers. You draft the best QB for the Steelers. That guy may or may not be considered the best of his class. The best QB to lead this team may rate as a 3rd rounder by most of the analysts. You have to go get him. Make sure he's a Steeler.

That's the mountaintop I've been yodeling from :D

The most "Steeler" QB available in the league isn't in the draft and isn't a high- priced FA offering. He's currently riding the pine in SF and nobody there wants him. We could get him for a steal.

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It's not about getting the best QB in the draft when you're drafting for a team that is already built, like the Steelers. You draft the best QB for the Steelers. That guy may or may not be considered the best of his class. The best QB to lead this team may rate as a 3rd rounder by most of the analysts. You have to go get him. Make sure he's a Steeler.

That's the mountaintop I've been yodeling from :D

The most "Steeler" QB available in the league isn't in the draft and isn't a high- priced FA offering. He's currently riding the pine in SF and nobody there wants him. We could get him for a steal.

[Born2Steel]

A middling QB with this talent around him could make the playoffs. Tomlin has never had a losing season, and I don't know why he would with Jones or Dobbs at QB. My point is that is the limit with Jones OR Dobbs, IMO. No Dobbs hasn't had his chance yet, and that by itself tells us something. When Ben was drafted, he was drafted to take over the job, Jones and Dobbs were not. We need to be looking at this draft like that again. This QB class may not be historically GREAT, but it is still pretty darn good.

Denver is expected to draft a QB in an early round, which will be early in an early round this time. If they do...they already have Osweiler, Seimian, Lynch, and Kelly on the roster. Somebody is becoming available, and it will probably be 2 somebodies. If one of them is Lynch or Kelly, I would bring him in for a good look running our system.(Depending on asking price obviously)
Also, Minnesota has too many high priced QBs to keep them all. Keenum is the favorite to be retained, according to the talking heads. That would put Bradford(capable but fragile and expensive), and/or Bridgewater(a skillset much like Wilson) on the available list.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

A middling QB with this talent around him could make the playoffs. Tomlin has never had a losing season, and I don't know why he would with Jones or Dobbs at QB. My point is that is the limit with Jones OR Dobbs, IMO. No Dobbs hasn't had his chance yet, and that by itself tells us something. When Ben was drafted, he was drafted to take over the job, Jones and Dobbs were not. We need to be looking at this draft like that again. This QB class may not be historically GREAT, but it is still pretty darn good.

Denver is expected to draft a QB in an early round, which will be early in an early round this time. If they do...they already have Osweiler, Seimian, Lynch, and Kelly on the roster. Somebody is becoming available, and it will probably be 2 somebodies. If one of them is Lynch or Kelly, I would bring him in for a good look running our system.(Depending on asking price obviously)
Also, Minnesota has too many high priced QBs to keep them all. Keenum is the favorite to be retained, according to the talking heads. That would put Bradford(capable but fragile and expensive), and/or Bridgewater(a skillset much like Wilson) on the available list. i highly doubt the asking Price for Lynch or Kelly would be very high at all. Two unproven qb's and wasn't Kelly Mr Irrelevant in the last draft ?

[Mojouw]

Fragile Sam Bradford, Lynch, and Kelly are more what I’d look for. And then get your guy in one of the next 2-3 drafts between 2018-2020.




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Born2Steel]

i highly doubt the asking Price for Lynch or Kelly would be very high at all. Two unproven qb's and wasn't Kelly Mr Irrelevant in the last draft ?

Yes he was. There are options is all I'm saying.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Fragile Sam Bradford, Lynch, and Kelly are more what I’d look for. And then get your guy in one of the next 2-3 drafts between 2018-2020.




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Who is the odd man out and Pitt rarely keeps 4 qb's ? Dobbs ?

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Yes he was. There are options is all I'm saying. Agreed there are and if Ben does retire I feel the Steelers may already have a plan in place. It's not Landry or Dobbs though I hope.

[vasteeler]

I don't think Ben is going to retire just yet anyway.

[Mojouw]

Who is the odd man out and Pitt rarely keeps 4 qb's ? Dobbs ?

- - - Updated - - -

Agreed there are and if Ben does retire I feel the Steelers may already have a plan in place. It's not Landry or Dobbs though I hope.

Don’t know. But I’d have an honest competition between a draft pick, Jones, Dobbs, and a lower cost FA. TAke the best 3.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Steelerette]

The only free agent QB I would consider is Cousins, and only if Ben hangs 'em up.

I don't love Landry but his floor is basically Bubby Brister. With the team we can put around him, that's "good enough" to not go throwing money at an old Alex Smith, or at Tyrod Taylor. Yeah we'd still need a Franchise QB, but we'll be drafting another QB, and we'll be able to find out whether Dobbs or Draftee is that guy.

Yeah Cousins will be expensive. But after how he's been treated in Washington, I think he'd choose to come here for 26 million, rather than to say Cleveland for 27 million. He'll get paid but it's not going to be an insane bidding war unless Brady retires and New England wants him too.

If Ben doesn't hang 'em up, we still need to draft a QB. But who?

Rosen will be long gone, and that's fine. I want a QB without durability questions from the get-go.

Darnold is a big pocket passer with a cannon who has issues with confidence and decision making. We already have that, it's called Landry Jones.

Mayfield is a great college player, but it won't translate to the pros. Weak-armed, short, and this dude is probably going to score negative on the wonderlic. On top of that, the way we run our offense isn't going to work with a QB who can't see over the D-line. Baker doesn't have the brains to make up for that limitation either. Pass.

Josh Allen - this is who I want, and he's perfect if Ben stays another year. He's got great intangibles, great athlete, has to work on accuracy but is a decent decision maker. Could use some grooming and that's what he'll get here. I know I complained about Rosen's durability, but Allen's is soft tissue, Rosen's involved nerve damage and required surgery. Big difference IMO.

Lamar Jackson - I'd be thrilled with this as well. With all the speed we have on offense, not just right now but Tomlin's speed philosophy, he'd be electric on this team.


If Josh Allen or Lamar Jackson are either one available past the middle of the first round, I start working the phones for a tradeup.

Drew Lock - I don't know if he's declaring? And it's fine, we already had Tommy Maddox.

Luke Falk - Hmm. This is Neil O'Donnell 2.0. A very accurate pocket passer, but not a lot more than a pocket passer. Wouldn't hate trying to groom him but I doubt the offense is going in this direction and we can do better.

Mason Rudolph - if Ben is returning and we don't wind up with Allen or Jackson, I would take Rudolph in the third round. Needs some work, but has plenty upside.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

I wonder what the DeShone Kizer situation will bring. I think that Kizer came out of college too early and needed a situation where he could work for a couple seasons before getting time in NFL games. If Cleveland lets him go, I would look at picking him up and seeing what a year of mechanics and mental reps as the #2 or #3 QB could do for him. He has all the tools, but again accuracy because of mechanics and being thrown into the fire when he should have still been at Notre Dame wasn't good.

[Mojouw]

Somewhere Kizer is still staring down a WR.


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[GoSlash27]

Somewhere Kizer is still staring down a WR.
Probably :D And I don't think the Steelers are in the market for another Kordell Stewart.

[86WARD]

Cousins isn’t an option. Neither is Smith. The cost is way too high and when did the Steelers EVER make that kind of splash in Free Agency?