The Pittsburgh Steelers have long been a franchise known for their stability at the quarterback position, particularly with the legendary Ben Roethlisberger. However, with the team in transition following his retirement, the quarterback position has been a turnstyle with Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, Duck Hodges, Mason Rudolph, and Kenny Pickett.

Here are some compelling reasons why Pittsburgh should explore trading for Kyler Murray.

Elite Mobility and Playmaking Ability

One of Kyler Murray’s biggest strengths is his mobility. Standing at 5’10” with a low center of gravity, Murray is incredibly elusive in the pocket and dangerous when he decides to take off and run. His speed and agility allow him to make plays outside the pocket, an asset that Pittsburgh could benefit from. The Steelers have had success with mobile quarterbacks in the past, and Murray would offer them a quarterback who can escape pressure, extend drives, and create big plays with both his legs and his arm.

In a division with talented defensive units like the Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns, Murray’s ability to make plays on the run could prove to be a game-changer. In addition, with a mobile quarterback, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith could be more creative with his schemes, incorporating more read-option, bootleg, and play-action concepts that could help open up the field. Similar to how the offense looked with Fields, it could look 5 times as good with the talent of Kyler.

Proven Success in the NFL

Kyler Murray has already proven he can perform at a high level in the NFL, especially early in his career. His resume includes impressive seasons, such as in 2020 when he threw for over 3,900 yards and 26 touchdowns, with an additional 819 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns. Murray’s ability to stretch the field both in the air and on the ground would help a Steelers offense that has struggled to consistently put up points in recent years.

Development Potential

At just 26 years old, Murray is still in the prime of his career, and the Steelers could provide him with an ideal environment for development. Pittsburgh has a solid coaching staff led by Mike Tomlin, who has consistently been able to get the best out of his players. If Murray were to join the Steelers, he would be paired with a talented offensive supporting cast, including weapons like wide receiver George Pickens, and a solid offensive line that could continue to improve. Additionally, the Steelers’ defense—ranked as one of the best in the NFL—would take pressure off Murray, giving him more opportunities to make plays and lessening the burden on his shoulders.

While Murray’s time with the Cardinals has been rocky at times, a fresh start with a strong organization could be exactly what he needs to recapture his earlier success. With the right pieces around him, Murray could continue to develop into one of the league’s premier quarterbacks.

While trading for Murray would be a bold move, it could be the catalyst Pittsburgh needs to return to Super Bowl contention. With Murray’s skill set, youth, and potential to develop further, he could be the answer to the Steelers’ quarterback woes and lead them back to prominence in the years to come.