The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a predicament where they are looking for an answer at the quarterback position. As things currently stand on the roster, Mason Rudolph is expected to be the starter, but rumors linking the team to Aaron Rodgers continue to float around despite the two sides not agreeing to a contract yet.
Since Ben Roethlisberger retired, Pittsburgh has struggled to find a long-term solution under center. Now, with speculation swirling about a possible pivot to another veteran option, ESPN analyst and former Steeler Ryan Clark is pushing back, particularly at the idea of bringing in Kirk Cousins.
Ryan Clark Rips Idea of Kirk Cousins to the Steelers
Appearing on the May 27 edition of ESPN’s “NFL Live” show, Clark addressed a scenario floated by fellow analyst Jeremy Fowler, who suggested Cousins could be a fallback option if Rodgers doesn’t land in Pittsburgh.
“Last time I checked, Allen Iverson was the answer because it sure ain’t Kirk Cousins. I understand what Jeremy [Fowler] might be hearing and it does seem like the eventual next step if you can’t get Aaron Rodgers but what makes you think Kirk Cousins is going to be better than Mason Rudolph? What makes you think that Kirk Cousins’ arm is more lively or can maneuver in the pocket better? He can’t,” Clark said.
“The last time I checked, Allen Iverson was the answer because it sure ain’t Kirk Cousins.” 😯
—@Realrclark25 on Kirk Cousins not being the answer at QB for the Steelers pic.twitter.com/3KaAlkc9cv
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) May 27, 2025
Cousins began last season as a starter for the Atlanta Falcons, returning from a torn Achilles tendon. However, he finished the season as the backup, completing 303 of 453 (66.9%) of his passes for 3,508 yards with 18 passing touchdowns and a league-most 16 interceptions in 14 games before rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. replaced him.
Any potential trade involving Cousins would carry significant financial implications. The veteran quarterback is entering the second year of a four-year, $180 million deal. If the Falcons trade him, the move would cost a staggering $75 million in dead cap. The contract also includes a no-trade clause, meaning Cousins would have to agree to any deal.
If the Falcons decide to release him instead, Cousins will become a free agent and only be eligible to sign for the league minimum with any team, including the Steelers. Regardless of how things unfold, it will be interesting to see which quarterback will lead Pittsburgh’s snaps in Week 1 against the New York Jets. Whether it’s Rudolph, Rodgers, Cousins, or anyone else, the team will be busy in their search for a successful season.
