Steelers Rumors: Why PIT Trading For Tua Tagovailoa Would Be The WORST CASE SCENARIO Next Offseason

Steelers Edge Rusher Concerns

• 💡 The Steelers hosted four edge rushers for visits (Oshane Zimnes, U. Ronnie Perkins, Casey Tuhill, Isaiah Thomas) due to potential injuries.
• ⚠️ TJ Watt is recovering from a partially collapsed lung, and Nick Herbig has a new hamstring injury, making their availability for the upcoming game uncertain.
• 🎯 This creates a depth issue at edge rusher, which could be problematic against Jared Goff, who excels when not pressured.

Potential Waiver Claims

• 📌 Matthew Judon was released by the Miami Dolphins and is a potential waiver claim target for the Steelers, fitting their profile for veteran "castoffs."
• ✅ Judon could serve as a rotational third edge rusher, potentially better than current depth options, especially if Watt and Herbig are out.
• 💬 Allen Lazard cleared waivers and was not claimed by the Steelers; he might be signed to the practice squad but is unlikely to play meaningful snaps this season.

Tua Tagovailoa: Worst Case Scenario

• 🚨 The Miami Dolphins benched Tua Tagovailoa, creating speculation about his future and potential trade.
• ❌ The speaker considers trading for Tua Tagovailoa the "worst case scenario" for the Steelers' quarterback position in 2026.
• 🥶 Key reasons include Tua's inability to play in cold weather, limited arm strength, high contract cost, and restricted playoff upside in adverse conditions, which are crucial for the Steelers.

Preferred Quarterback Options

• 💡 The speaker would prefer options like an unknown rookie Will Howard or Gino Smith over Tua Tagovailoa for the Steelers.
• 🏈 Aaron Rodgers is presented as a strong option for next season, citing his proven ability in cold weather, established team chemistry, and a team-friendly contract.
• 🚫 Kurt Cousins is also mentioned as another "worst case scenario" due to his lack of throwing velocity, similar to the concerns with Tua.