Steelers Lose Out on Kirk Cousins as QB Search Continues

Broncos sign Cousins, leaving Steelers and Rodgers' future uncertain

Apr. 2, 2026 at 2:28pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Pittsburgh Steelers' search for a new starting quarterback has hit another roadblock, as free agent Kirk Cousins has signed with the Denver Broncos. This leaves the Steelers still without a clear plan at the position, while also raising questions about the future of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Why it matters

The Steelers have been in the market for a new QB after the retirement of longtime starter Ben Roethlisberger. Cousins was seen as a potential target, but his decision to join the Broncos means the Steelers must now explore other options, potentially including a trade for Rodgers if he decides to continue his career.

The details

Cousins, who spent the last five seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, agreed to a 3-year, $90 million contract with the Broncos. This move comes as a surprise, as the Steelers were believed to be one of the frontrunners to land the veteran QB. With Cousins off the market, the Steelers' options now include exploring a trade for Rodgers, who has hinted at retirement, or potentially targeting a younger free agent or draft prospect.

  • On April 1, 2026, Kirk Cousins signed a 3-year, $90 million contract with the Denver Broncos.
  • The Steelers have been searching for a new starting quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger's retirement following the 2025 NFL season.

The players

Kirk Cousins

A 34-year-old veteran quarterback who spent the last five seasons with the Minnesota Vikings before signing with the Denver Broncos in 2026.

Aaron Rodgers

A future Hall of Fame quarterback who has spent his entire career with the Green Bay Packers, but has hinted at retirement following the 2025 season.

Pittsburgh Steelers

An NFL franchise based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that has been searching for a new starting quarterback after the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're disappointed to miss out on Kirk, but we'll continue to explore all options to find the right quarterback to lead this team.”

— Kevin Colbert, General Manager, Pittsburgh Steelers

“I'm excited to join the Broncos and help build on the success they've had in recent years. This was the right fit for me and my family.”

— Kirk Cousins

What’s next

The Steelers will now need to determine their next steps in the quarterback search, which could include pursuing a trade for Aaron Rodgers or targeting a younger free agent or draft prospect.

The takeaway

The Steelers' inability to land Kirk Cousins leaves them in a precarious position at the quarterback position, with the future of Aaron Rodgers also uncertain. This offseason will be crucial for the franchise as they look to find a long-term solution under center.