The 2021 season is the end of an era for the Pittsburgh Steelers. While there hasn’t been an official announcement, long-time quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will likely be retiring this offseason. That will mean the Steelers must look at quarterback options this offseason and Ryan Fitzpatrick could be an intriguing target.
Roethlisberger spent his entire 18-year career with the black and gold. The Steelers were able to make one more surprising run to the postseason with him under center, but it was clear that he wasn’t close to the player that he used to be.
The Steelers’ offense was anemic at times, as Roethlisberger was unable to push the ball downfield and challenge opponents. Their offensive line was also underwhelming, which was not a recipe for success through the air.
However, Pittsburgh does have excellent weapons at the skill positions. Diontae Johnson and Chase Claypool at wide receiver, Pat Friermiuth at tight end and Najee Harris at running back could be the core of an explosive offense. With some tweaks to the offensive line, they would be in business.
Combined with an opportunistic, extremely talented defense, the Steelers have the makings of a contending team. Finding a quarterback will determine if they can reach that status.
One player to keep an eye on is veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick. The Steelers could sign him with the intent of him being the starter in 2022 while helping groom a quarterback of the future that the team could select with their first-round pick this year.
Fitzpatrick didn’t even last a full game in 2021 before injuring his hip and missing the duration of the season. As a result, the Steelers could get a discount on him in free agency if he does not opt to retire.
When healthy, Fitzpatrick has shown that he can still get the job done as a starter. He was excellent in spot duty with the Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, playing at an above-average level.
Should the Steelers land Fitzpatrick and he remain healthy, their offense could easily move into the top half of the league.
