Steelers Eyeing Joe Flacco as a Potential Backup Quarterback
As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for the 2025 NFL offseason, a familiar name has surfaced in free-agency discussions: veteran quarterback Joe Flacco. According to Tony Pauline of SportsKeeda, the Steelers are among the teams reportedly considering Flacco as a backup option.
Steelers Among Potential Suitors
Pauline mentioned the San Francisco 49ers, New England Patriots, and Steelers as possible landing spots for Flacco, who could serve as a seasoned backup quarterback.
“I’m told to keep an eye on the San Francisco 49ers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New England Patriots as suitors for Flacco in the offseason, as all would look for a veteran backup,” Pauline wrote.
The Steelers’ interest in Flacco is understandable. With years of AFC North matchups under his belt as the longtime quarterback of the Baltimore Ravens, Flacco is no stranger to Pittsburgh or its defense. His experience in big games, including a Super Bowl victory in 2012, makes him a viable candidate to bolster the Steelers’ quarterback depth.
Flacco’s 2024 Season Recap
Flacco’s most recent stint came with a team where he played in six games during the 2024 season, alternating starts due to injuries and inconsistency from Anthony Richardson. Flacco finished the season with:
- 1,761 passing yards
- 12 touchdowns
- 7 interceptions
- A 2-4 record as a starter
Although his days as a full-time starter are behind him, Flacco remains a steady presence who can step in when needed.
Steelers’ Quarterback Depth Needs
Currently, the Steelers have Kenny Pickett as their starter, but depth at the quarterback position is a priority for Pittsburgh. The team cycled through backups last season, relying on Mitch Trubisky and rookie Tanner Morgan, neither of whom consistently inspired confidence. Bringing in a veteran like Flacco would give the Steelers a proven option in case of an emergency.
Flacco’s Career Overview
Over his storied career, Flacco has played for the Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and other teams. He boasts:
- Over 42,000 career passing yards
- 232 touchdowns
- A proven track record in the playoffs, including an 11-5 postseason record and MVP honors in Super Bowl XLVII.
A Familiar Face for the Steelers
Pittsburgh’s familiarity with Flacco adds intrigue to this potential move. Having faced him in numerous AFC North showdowns and playoff battles during his tenure in Baltimore, the Steelers are well aware of his leadership, poise, and ability to manage games effectively.
The Final Word
While Flacco is no longer a starting-caliber quarterback, his wealth of experience and ability to serve as a steady backup make him an attractive option for a team like the Steelers. If Pittsburgh prioritizes adding a veteran presence behind Pickett, Flacco could be a logical and low-risk signing heading into the 2025 season.
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