The Pittsburgh Steelers are at a crossroads when it comes to their quarterback situation, and the clock is ticking. While there’s been a buzz around Will Howard, the truth is, the Steelers still lack a clear franchise quarterback. And if Aaron Rodgers doesn’t return, their 2026 season could be in serious jeopardy. But here’s where it gets interesting: Yahoo Sports’ Nate Tice has thrown a wildcard into the mix—Spencer Rattler. Could this under-the-radar QB be worth a gamble? Let’s dive in.
Tice, speaking on the Yahoo Sports Daily podcast, suggested Rattler as a potential low-key option for teams like the Steelers. ‘Someone might take a stab at him,’ Tice said. ‘People got to throw darts.’ And this is the part most people miss: in a market as thin as this year’s QB pool, even a fourth-round pick could be enough to bring Rattler into the fold. It’s a speculative move, but one that could pay off—or backfire spectacularly.
But here’s the controversial part: Rattler’s track record isn’t exactly stellar. Drafted in the fifth round by the New Orleans Saints in 2024, he started 14 games across two seasons but only managed one win. His stats—a 62.7% completion rate, 2,903 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions—aren’t jaw-dropping. Yet, Tice’s point is that in a league desperate for QB talent, even a modest investment could be worth the risk.
Rattler’s situation in New Orleans is telling. After starting the 2025 season as the Saints’ QB1, he was eventually benched in favor of Tyler Shough, their second-round pick. Heading into 2026, Rattler is likely to be a backup, making him expendable. But does that make him a viable option for the Steelers? It’s a question that divides opinions.
Here’s the counterpoint: Rattler’s lack of progression and limited success might make him a risky bet. However, for the Steelers, who currently have just Mason Rudolph and Howard on their roster, adding depth is non-negotiable. With the draft, free agency, and trade market all looking bleak, Rattler could be a cost-effective solution—even if he’s not the long-term answer.
So, should the Steelers take a chance on Rattler? It’s a move that could either shore up their QB room or leave them right back where they started. What do you think? Is Rattler worth a fourth-round pick, or should the Steelers look elsewhere? Let’s hear your take in the comments—this debate is far from over.
