Penguins Must Survive Brutal Schedule Following Olympic Break
As we are now smack dab in the middle of the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Pittsburgh Penguins entered the break as one of the most surprising teams in hockey, with a record of 29-15-12; good for a .518 winning percentage.
October got off to a very promising start for the Penguins, as they were 8-2-2.
After going 4-5-3 in November, Pittsburgh went on an eight-game losing streak from early-to-mid-December. Fortunately, half of those losses resulted in picking up a point.
Since the Christmas break, the Penguins have righted the ship; recording points in 17 of their last 20 games (14-3-3).
While most of the Penguins players are resting easy, Sidney Crosby is captaining Team Canada, Erik Karlsson and Rickard Rakell are representing Team Sweden, and Arturs Silovs is playing for Team Latvia.
Coming out of the Olympic break, the Pens will finish February against the New Jersey Devils and New York Rangers. The rest of the schedule for March and April won’t be a cakewalk by any stretch of the imagination.
Aside from playing the Metro Division leading Carolina Hurricanes three times, Pittsburgh will also square off against the other three division leaders:
Vegas Golden Knights twice - first place in the Pacific Division
Colorado Avalanche twice - first place in the Central Division
Tampa Bay Lightning - first place in the Atlantic Division
Remaining divisional games, besides Carolina, include the New Jersey Devils twice, Buffalo Sabres, Philadelphia Flyers, New York Islanders, and Washington Capitals twice.
Notable non-division contests will consist of the following:
Boston Bruins twice
Utah Mammoth on the road
Ottawa Senators on the road
Detroit Red Wings at home
Florida Panthers back-to-back
So how do the Penguins survive the roughest portion of the remaining schedule? The simple answer is by doing the things that have made them successful this season, such as getting consistent production from all four lines, an effective power play and penalty kill, a blue line knowing their assignments, and good goaltending.
If the Penguins continue that overall play post-Olympic break, and can be at least a slightly above .500 team rest of the way, then it’s likely good enough to get them into the playoffs for the first time since 2022.
Assessing the Marcell Ozuna Deal for Pirates
p/c: Dale Zanine-Imagn
The Pittsburgh Pirates are adding another significant bat to the 2026 lineup, as MLB Network insider Jon Heyman reports that the Bucs have agreed to sign veteran designated hitter Marcell Ozuna to a one-year deal worth $12 million, pending a physical.
*Update* Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporting Ozuna’s deal includes a mutual option in 2027 for $16 million.
For the Pirates, it’s been the most active offseason they have had in quite a long time, with the additions of Brandon Lowe, Jake Mangum, Ryan O’Hearn, and now Ozuna.
The 35-year-old Ozuna will enter ‘26 in his 14th MLB season. A three-time All Star, Ozuna spent the past six seasons with the Atlanta Braves.
Last season was considered a down year by Ozuna’s standards; slashing .232/.355/.400, along with a 114 wRC+, and 21 home runs in 592 plate appearances. He dealt with a hip injury for much of the year.
Assessment of the deal: The Ozuna signing no doubt closes the door on an Andrew McCutchen return. While McCutchen is obviously a beloved figure among Pirates fans, the reality is that Ozuna presents a better offensive profile.
Assuming Ozuna returns fully healthy this season, he could still be one of the more productive DHs in baseball.
The addition of Ozuna should result in Ryan O’Hearn being the Pirates left fielder on a regular basis, and for Jake Mangum to be a nice, fourth outfield option.
This offseason was Ben Cherington’s goal to vastly improve the offense, and at least on paper, he’s done an outstanding job - objectively speaking.
Aaron Rodgers’ Return to Steelers Reportedly Stronger
p/c: Matt Slocum
The Pittsburgh Steelers could very well have Aaron Rodgers as their starting quarterback in 2026. According to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the future Hall of Fame QB has had multiple conversations with new Steelers head coach, Mike McCarthy, and that the “odds are increasing” of a return to Pittsburgh.
Rodgers signed with the Steelers last offseason on a one-year deal for $13.6 million, this after heavy endorsement from Mike Tomlin.
In 16 starts, Rodgers compiled 3,322 passing yards, along with a 24-7 TD/INT, and passer rating of 94.8, which was sixth best among AFC quarterbacks.
Unfortunately for Rodgers, he had his worst playoff performance, in a 30-6 drubbing to the Houston Texans, as he lost a fumble that resulted in a touchdown, and pick six.
Following the unexpected departure of Mike Tomlin, many perceived that a Rodgers return to the Steelers would be highly unlikely.
Now with the hiring of Mike McCarthy, it certainly changes that perception. Rodgers of course played under McCarthy in Green Bay from 2006-2018; winning a Super Bowl in the process.
Given the reported recent talks with Rodgers and McCarthy, there now appears to be more smoke to the proverbial fire.
Examining Ben Roethlisberger’s Case as First Ballot Hall of Famer In 2027
When it comes to the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, there are a couple of players that have been on the outside looking in. One of them is LC Greenwood. On Thursday night, Greenwood was once again snubbed from induction into Canton. The other is Hines Ward, who continues to fall short of becoming a semi finalist.
The Steelers will have a pair of prominent names as first ballot Hall of Fame candidates in 2027 - Antonio Brown and Ben Roethlisberger. Although Brown was regarded as the best wide receiver in the decade of the 2010’s, his off the field antics and personal issues should likely keep him out on the first try. As for Roethlisberger, does he make it next year?
Roethlisberger played 18 seasons in the NFL - all coming with the Black & Gold. He finished his career seventh in passing yards (64,088), while placing ninth in touchdown passes (418).
In terms of quarterbacks this century, Roethlisberger is one of only five to win at least two Super Bowls; joining Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, Peyton Manning, and Eli Manning.
In Pittsburgh’s Super Bowl 43 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, Roethlisberger executed perhaps the greatest touchdown pass in Super Bowl history, with a perfectly thrown ball to Santonio Holmes.
The one knock voters may have on Roethlisberger is that he was never a first-team All-Pro. However, his career numbers I feel are enough to overshadow that fact.
Despite winning four Super Bowls, another legendary Steelers QB, Terry Bradshaw, had roughly 36,000 less passing yards than Roethlisberger. Now sure, Bradshaw played in an era where quarterbacks didn’t put up huge passing numbers, but it still highlights how impressive Roethlisberger’s career marks are.
Aside from the stellar stats, Roethlisberger had the intangible reputation of being the toughest quarterback to take down in his era, or any other era.
Compiling all the accolades and facts, Ben Roethlisberger should receive the call to Canton as a first ballot Hall of Fame QB.
Pirates Reportedly a Suitor for Framber Valdez
The Pittsburgh Pirates have their eye on a free agent - and it’s the most unlikeliest of targets. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Pirates are an aggressive suitor for left-hander Framber Valdez.
Valdez entered this offseason as the top free agent lefty starter on the open market.
A two-time All-Star, Valdez has spent his entire career with the Houston Astros. Over the last five seasons, he’s posted a 3.20 ERA. In 2022, Valdez finished fifth in AL Cy Young voting.
Since debuting for the Astros in 2018, Valdez has been one of the strongest, ground ball pitchers in the game; registering a 61.5% GB rate.
It’s been an unusually aggressive offseason for the Pirates, which has included making a legitimate offer to Kyle Schwarber, trading for Brandon Lowe, signing Ryan O’Hearn, and just missing out on signing Eugenio Suarez.
New Pirates pitching coach, Bill Murphy, was instrumental in developing Valdez in Houston, so there is a connection.
It may seem like a pipe dream, but adding Valdez to the Pirates staff would easily give them one of the best rotations in baseball.
Should Penguins Extend Stuart Skinner?
As we’re about to turn the calendar into February, the Pittsburgh Penguins have been one of the hottest teams in the NHL; posting a .750 winning percentage over their last 16 games played.For Penguins president of hockey operations, Kyle Dubas, it’s been a flurry of solid moves - from the signings of Justin Brazeau, Anthony Mantha, and Parker Wotherspoon - to his most recent trade of Egor Chinakhov.
Despite giving out the Tristan Jarry extension, which was a heavily criticized decision, Dubas somehow managed to sell high on Jarry by trading him, along with forward Sam Poulin, to the Edmonton Oilers on December 12th in exchange for goalie Stuart Skinner, defenseman Brett Kulak, and a second round draft pick for 2029.
While Kulak has provided a shot in the arm, on Pittsburgh’s blue line, Skinner is a big reason why the Penguins have been such a red hot team post-Christmas break. As a matter of fact, since December 30th, Skinner is registering a .934 save percentage and a 1.63 goals against average in a span of eight starts.
There’s no doubt Skinner has arguably been the best in-between the pipes since the beginning of the new year. He’s quickly turned into a fan favorite, with Pens fans yelling out “Stuuuuu” anytime he makes a big, no rebound save.
Given the Penguins becoming legitimate playoff contenders, talks have now circulated regarding the 27-year-old netminder being a possible extension candidate.
Skinner, who is making $2.6 million this season, is set to become an unrestricted free agent. With the Olympic break just around the corner, it could be a perfect opportunity for Dubas to meet with Skinner about a new contract.
The Penguins are in a very favorable position cap space-wise, so they would be able to extend Skinner on a short-term deal; preferably two years - without having to break the bank.
However, there is the flip side - What if Skinner wants to wait it out until he hits the open market after the season? If that’s the case, then Dubas should make Skinner available at the trade deadline. Strong playoff contenders could look to upgrade themselves at goaltender. In terms of a possible bidding war, there might be a team willing to offer a 2026 third round pick, for a rental goalie in Skinner. At that point, the Penguins would really have to consider such a return.
Sergei Murashov, viewed by most as the Penguins’ goaltender of the future, appeared in five games with Pittsburgh earlier in the season, and held his own; recording a GAA of 2.56. If they do trade Skinner, then Murashov would be recalled and thrusted into a playoff push.
Can Bryan Reynolds Return to All-Star Level Form In 2026?
Although the Pittsburgh Pirates offense really struggled in 2025, Bryan Reynolds is the one hitter you can still rely on to put up quality production. Unfortunately, even the switch-hitting outfielder couldn’t get it going offensively, as he posted career worsts in slugging (.402), OPS (.720), and bWAR (1.4).Reynolds still hit fastballs well in 2025; hitting .297 and slugging .460. However, he struggled handling breaking balls, with a .189 average and a .383 slugging percentage. Against offspeed pitches, Reynolds batted just .219, while slugging .286.
In terms of underlying metrics, Reynolds’ xSLG was .477. He registered a 46.0% hard-hit rate, which was better than the MLB average at 37.0%, so the slugging should have been higher based on the quality of hard contact.
As discouraging as the offensive numbers were for Reynolds last year, he’s a season removed from an All-Star campaign, where he was a four-win player offensively.
Reynolds enters 2026 in his age 31 season - a point in which players typically begin to exit their prime. Can he bounce back into All-Star level form?
Last season might have been a case of Reynolds pressing too much at the plate, especially with a very lackluster offense. Now with the additions of Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn, as well as Spencer Horwitz having a strong, second half, it should provide Reynolds much more protection in the lineup.
Combined with still showing quality of contact at the plate, and being in a better lineup on paper, there’s little reason to think that Reynolds couldn’t return to his 2024 form. Even a three-win Reynolds on offense this year would be a big boost for the Pirates lineup.
Will Howard as Steelers Starting Quarterback In 2026: Is It Realistic?
As the Pittsburgh Steelers enter the offseason, the quarterbacks currently on their depth chart are Mason Rudolph and Will Howard.
Rudolph appeared in five games this season, including one start, where he posted an 84.6 passer rating.
Howard was a sixth round draft choice by the Steelers in 2025. The former Ohio State standout had looked impressive in camp, before suffering a fractured bone in his pinky finger. Howard was activated off IR in mid-November, but did not appear in a game.
Following a disastrous showing in the AFC Wildcard Game, Aaron Rodgers isn’t likely to return to Pittsburgh, especially with Mike Tomlin’s surprising decision to step down from the team. There’s a good possibility that Rodgers elects to retire.
On Saturday, the Steelers hired Rodgers’ former head coach, Mike McCarthy - a move that has prompted many strong opinions.
When asked about Howard, McCarthy said he’s intrigued by the upside of the 24-year-old.
Given McCarthy’s lengthy track record of developing quarterbacks, one would think that Howard would benefit from the coaching change.
Steelers owner and team president, Art Rooney II, doesn’t expect the team to rebuild, and quite frankly, isn’t a fan of the term. So would the Steelers give an opportunity to a quarterback that was a Day 3 draft pick a year ago?
There’s been plenty of speculation of the Steelers going with a quarterback in the first round of this year’s draft, which will be held in Pittsburgh. Does Rooney envision the team going with an inexperienced option to open the 2026 season? Even Mason Rudolph as a stopgap starter wouldn’t really solve anything.
Malik Willis is one of the more notable quarterbacks in free agency. Willis is projected to receive a nice payday in a less than ideal free agent QB class - most suggesting a 2-3 year deal.
If the goal is to “win now” next season, then it’s likely the Steelers go out and sign someone like Willis. In turn, it would leave Howard competing for a backup spot at best going into training camp.
Weighing Pros and Cons of the Mike McCarthy Hire
p/c: Joe Nicholson
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ head coaching search reached its conclusion on Saturday, as the team hired Mike McCarthy, to be their just their fourth head coach in the Super Bowl Era.
Other candidates included a couple of names from the Los Angeles Rams - Defensive coordinator Chris Shula and passing game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase. San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak, as well as former Steelers linebackers coach and current Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores.
McCarthy, 62, has coached a total of 18 seasons; spending 13 with the Green Bay Packers and five with the Dallas Cowboys.
Steelers general manager Omar Khan knows McCarthy from when both were in the New Orleans Saints’ organization in 2000.
The hiring of McCarthy has certainly been met with mixed reviews. What are the pros and cons of the hire?
Pros: Perhaps McCarthy’s best attribute is his ability to develop quarterbacks; most notably Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers. Some would even argue that Dak Prescott had his best seasons under McCarthy’s watch.
During his coaching career, McCarthy has captured eight division titles, which included four consecutive from 2011-2014.
Cons: Although McCarthy has had great offenses, for much of his career, they typically underperform in the biggest games. Mike Tomlin had no playoff wins since 2016. In the same span, McCarthy has just one win, so it’s not as if McCarthy’s recent playoff track record has been any better than Tomlin’s.
McCarthy has always benefited from having franchise caliber quarterbacks - something the Steelers likely won’t have in 2026. Perhaps that changes down the road.
On the surface, the McCarthy hiring seems underwhelming, because of him being a retread option that really makes it feel like Tomlin 2.0, especially with the lack of playoff success over the past decade.
The rest of McCarthy’s coaching staff will be an interesting development. If McCarthy is willing to hire younger and forward thinking coordinators and assistants, then it would provide a higher level of optimism heading into the 2026 season.
Offseason Preview: Addressing Steelers’ Positional Needs
With the departure of Mike Tomlin, Omar Khan will have his most interesting offseason since becoming Pittsburgh Steelers general manager in 2022.
Whether it would starters, or depth options, the Steelers must address several holes. Let’s breakdown each position of need.
Quarterback
Given the strong, unlikelihood of Aaron Rodgers returning to Pittsburgh, a starting quarterback will be atop the list. Free agent options could include Joe Flacco and Malik Willis. Should the Steelers select a QB in Round 1 of this year’s draft, it’s not unrealistic that Flacco becomes a placeholder at the position.
Running back:
2025 was another productive season for Jaylen Warren. Complimenting him was Kenneth Gainwell, who turned into a valuable piece of the Steelers offense. Set to be an unrestricted free agent, Gainwell is expected to earn a healthy payday this offseason. The Steelers should make it a priority to re-sign the 26-year-old tailback.
Wide receivers:
DK Metcalf and a ton of question marks at the wide receiver position. It’s no secret that Omar Khan has failed to properly address a WR2 over the past couple seasons. He will need to in the offseason; either by trade or free agency. Speaking of the latter, Calvin Austin III is a UFA. It wouldn’t be a shock if Pittsburgh brought him back as a slot option (WR3). They might also look to add a WR in the draft - perhaps as early in the first round.
Offensive line:
There isn’t much to address on the Steelers offensive line, with Dylan Cook and Troy Fautanu as the starting tackles, Zach Frazier at center, and Mason McCormick at right guard. The left guard spot needs to be filled, as Isaac Seumalo will become a UFA. I would anticipate the Steelers to sign a veteran free agent LG. While they do have depth pieces, such as Broderick Jones and Spencer Anderson, Andrus Peat likely won’t return, so another reserve OL could be taken care of in the later rounds of the draft.
Defensive line:
Pittsburgh’s D-line appears to be set up well heading into next season. Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon, and Keeanu Benton are the projected starters. Yahya Black also displayed flashes of potential as a rookie. Much like the O-line, the other side of the trenches will probably involve a depth option being addressed at some point of the draft in April.
Inside linebackers:
Payton Wilson has been emerging as the Steelers’ eventual top inside linebacker. Veteran ILB Patrick Queen, who carries a hefty cap hit of $17.1 million in 2026, is very much a cap casualty candidate; unless he decides to take a significant pay cut to return. Cole Holcomb is as good as gone. As for Malik Harrison, he could be brought back as a more inexpensive option compared to Queen. My guess is the Steelers would sign a pair of ILBs.
Secondary:
Outside of Joey Porter Jr. and DeShon Elliott, Pittsburgh’s secondary definitely seems to have more questions than answers. After all, they finished the ‘25 season allowing the third most passing yards in the league. After struggling immensely as an outside CB, Jalen Ramsey was moved to free safety midway through the year, where he performed somewhat better. Ramsey has a $17.2 million dollar cap hit for next season. Similar to Patrick Queen, Ramsey would have to accept a pay cut in order to return. If not, the Steelers would most likely attempt to trade Ramsey for some type of draft capital, while replacing him with a cheaper FS in the process. Although Brandin Echols is signed through ‘26, James Pierre, Chuck Clark, and Jabrill Peppers are all set to hit the open market. In regards to Kyle Dugger, it’s doubtful he will be in next season’s plans, as he was mainly traded for, because of the season-ending injury to Elliott.
Punter:
Corliss Waitman was tasked with the punting duties for the Steelers this season. In 17 games, Waitman was near the bottom of the league in average yards per punt; ranking 25th at 45.5. However, he managed to land 26 punts inside the 20, which were fifth most among AFC punters. Waitman will be a RFA in the offseason, so Pittsburgh could elect to re-sign him, or simply bring in a new punter.
Previewing the Pirates Bullpen Competition
While much is made of the Pittsburgh Pirates starting rotation, and deservedly so, the bullpen also has plenty of intrigue in its own right.Dennis Santana will open 2026 as the team’s closer. Other locks include Isaac Mattson, Justin Lawrence, and Carmen Mlodzinski. The most notable offseason bullpen addition was Gregory Soto, who the Pirates agreed to sign on a one-year deal at the Winter Meetings for a reported $7.75 million.
Several other arms will be vying for the three remaining spots. Here are the candidates.
In the mix
Cam Sanders: Last offseason, the Pirates signed Cam Sanders to a minor league deal.
Sanders was very efficient pitching for AA Altoona and AAA Indianapolis; combining for a 2.12 ERA in 41 appearances.
On August 5th, Sanders had his contract selected by Pittsburgh. He allowed six runs in 6.2 innings.
Chris Devenski: The Pirates’ most recent bullpen addition is veteran righty Chris Devenski, who was signed to an MiLB deal on January 7th.
Although Devenski spent most of 2025 in the minors, he was impressive in 13 games with the New York Mets; posting a 2.16 ERA and a 0.90 WHIP.
Because of his 10 seasons of MLB service time, Devenski could have a potential opt-out clause in his contract.
Evan Sisk: Bailey Falter was dealt to the Kansas City Royals at last year’s trade deadline. In return, the Bucs received Evan Sisk, along with first base prospect Callan Moss.
Sisk was initially sent to the Indianapolis Indians following the trade. In 14 appearances for the Pirates, the sidearm lefty had an ERA of 4.38.
Soto is going to be Pittsburgh’s primary southpaw in the pen this season, so Sisk will look to claim a spot as another left-handed option.
Kyle Nicolas: Last season, Kyle Nicolas shuttled between the Pirates and Indianapolis.
Nicolas appeared in 31 games for the big league club, as he posted a 4.74 ERA
Combined with a hard fastball that averaged 97.6 mph, along with a solid curveball and slider, Nicolas has shown flashes, but the lack of consistent command is not helping him reach his full potential.
Mason Montgomery: The Pirates made their biggest move on December 19th, when they acquired All-Star second baseman Brandon Lowe from the Tampa Bay Rays, as part of a three-team deal. Pittsburgh also received lefty reliever Mason Montgomery in the trade.
Montgomery is an absolute flamethrower. Among qualified left-handed relievers in ‘25, he registered the top average fastball velocity in baseball - at 98.7.
In 57 appearances with Tampa Bay, Montgomery had a 5.67 ERA. However, his 3.92 FIP paints a better picture, while he struck out 63 in 46 innings pitched (12.3 K/9).
Yohan Ramírez: After pitching parts of two seasons with the Pirates in 2022 and 2023, Yohan Ramírez returned to the Bucs last season, on a MiLB deal in July.
Ramírez appeared in 24 games for Pittsburgh, with an ERA of 5.40, a 3.80 FIP, and 45 strikeouts in 33.1 innings of work (12.2 K/9).
Going into spring training, Ramírez will be the only Pirates reliever to be out of options.
Dark horse candidates
Brandan Bidois: One name in the Pirates’ organization that began to draw attention as a relief prospect a year ago was Brandan Bidois.
A native of Australia, Bidois posted a 0.80 ERA in the minors.
In August and September, the 24-year-old right-hander had allowed just one hit in 21.1 innings. For the season as a whole, Bidois recorded an extremely impressive .110 batting average against.
Because Bidois was Rule 5 eligible, the Pirates added him to the 40-man roster this offseason.
Ryan Harbin: Similar to Brandan Bidois, Pittsburgh chose to add another Rule 5 eligible pitcher to the 40-man with Ryan Harbin.
A former 17th round draft choice in 2019, Harbin began last season at High A for Greensboro, where he put up a 2.77 ERA.
On June 24th, the Pirates promoted Harbin to Altoona. He had an ERA of 3.66 with the Curve.
Harbin was then bumped up to Indianapolis on August 12th. His AAA stint was a struggle, as he posted an 11.48 ERA. It didn’t help that he walked more batters (16) than he struck out (15) in 13.1 innings.
The stuff for Harbin is intriguing; relying on an upper-90’s fastball that can touch triple-digits, a plus slider, and a decent splitter. He will need to clean up the control, if he wants to open some eyes in the spring.
Five Quarterbacks Steelers Could Look to Target This Offseason
Before the Pittsburgh Steelers’ first round playoff loss to the Houston Texans on Monday night, a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport was that the Steelers would be open to having Aaron Rodgers return. But based on Mike Tomlin stepping down from the organization on Tuesday, the chances of Rodgers coming back to Pittsburgh would appear to be slim to none.
The current QB depth chart has Mason Rudolph and Will Howard. Given the strong, unlikelihood of Rodgers returning, here are five quarterbacks the Steelers could pursue in the offseason.
Geno Smith
The 2025 Las Vegas Raiders finished tied for the worst record in the league. Geno Smith’s first season in Las Vegas didn’t go as well as planned; throwing for 3,025 yards, along with a 19-17 TD/INT, and a passer rating of 84.7.
Smith will be owed $26.5 million in 2026. The Raiders would most likely have to take on a large portion of that money, in order to facilitate a trade.
Before arriving to Las Vegas, Smith had put up a 95.4 passer rating as a full-time starter with the Seattle Seahawks from 2022-2024.
If Smith were traded to Pittsburgh as a short-term option, he would reunite with DK Metcalf.
JJ McCarthy
The Minnesota Vikings selected JJ McCarthy with the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
McCarthy missed his entire rookie season, as he suffered a torn meniscus in his right knee. This led to Sam Darnold having a career year in Minnesota.
After Darnold chose to sign with the Seahawks last offseason, McCarthy was named the Vikings starter heading into the 2025 season.
The numbers for McCarthy were subpar, with 1,632 yards passing, more interceptions (12) than touchdowns (11), and a 72.6 passer rating.
It’s not out of the realm of possibility that the Vikings would look to improve the QB position, and make McCarthy expendable.
Assuming the Steelers don’t feel any quarterback is worthy of a first round pick this year, perhaps they go outside the box and make a deal for McCarthy. He’ll only be 23, and has two years remaining on his rookie contract. If offensive-minded coaches are brought in, they could try to tap into his full potential.
Joe Flacco
AARP jokes aside, the Steelers could be a realistic destination for Joe Flacco in 2026.
The ageless wonder wore the jerseys of two division rivals this season - the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals.
During the absence of Joe Burrow, Flacco was a productive backup, as he had a 13-4 TD/INT, while registering a passer rating of 91.0 in nine games (six starts).
Spotrac projects Flacco to earn around $5.6 million next season.
If the Steelers do take a QB in the first round, or they still think highly of Will Howard, then Flacco becomes an ideal one-year stopgap option, who would complete the AFC North tour.
Mac Jones
It’s been an interesting trajectory in Mac Jones’ young NFL career.
Jones made it to the Pro Bowl as a rookie with the New England Patriots in 2021. However, his next two seasons in Foxboro left plenty to be desired for the former first rounder.
The Jacksonville Jaguars signed Jones to be Trevor Lawrence’s backup in 2024.
Last offseason, Jones inked a two-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers for $7 million.
Filling in for an injured Brock Purdy, the 27-year-old Jones played exceptionally well; throwing for 2,151 yards, along with a 13-6 TD/INT. In addition, he posted career bests in completion percentage (69.6%) and passer rating (97.4).
Jones is set to earn roughly over $4.2 million in ‘26. The Steelers could look to trade for Jones either as a one-year solution, or someone they could look to re-sign beyond next season.
Malik Willis
After falling to the third round of the 2022 draft, many perceived Malik Willis as a project with the Tennessee Titans.
Willis never really got to the opportunity to showcase his talents with the Titans, with the organization seemingly putting all of their eggs in the Will Levis basket.
Despite being in a QB2 role behind Jordan Love in Green Bay, Willis has made the most of his chances; showing a more polished and mature approach.
Now that Willis is entering the prime of his career, he will look to take advantage of a weak free agent QB class. Several teams should inquire on Willis this offseason, with the Steelers being no exception.
In terms of contract, it’s possible Willis receives a deal very comparable to what Justin Fields got from the New York Jets last offseason - at two years, $40 million.
Steelers Re-Signing Kenneth Gainwell Must Be a Priority This Offseason
Last year, the Pittsburgh Steelers had perhaps their most aggressive offseason ever. Notable transactions included the signing of Aaron Rodgers, the trade and sign of DK Metcalf, the acquisitions of Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith, and the much anticipated extension of TJ Watt.
One interesting low key move was the addition of Kenneth Gainwell, who Pittsburgh signed to a one-year deal for $1.7 million.
Gainwell spent his first four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, and was the reserve tailback to Saquon Barkley during the Eagles’ Super Bowl championship last season.
Heading into the preseason, Gainwell was in competition for the RB2 role with rookie Kaleb Johnson. Gainwell beat out Johnson, to be the backup alongside Jaylen Warren.
The 2025 season has been a breakout year, for the 26-year-old Gainwell, as his 527 rushing yards, 4.8 yards per carry, and 422 receiving yards to this point are all career-highs.
In terms of on the ground, Gainwell’s strongest performance was the Week 4 matchup in Dublin, Ireland against the Minnesota Vikings, where he rushed for 99 yards on 19 carries and two touchdowns. In Week 11 versus the Cincinnati Bengals, he recorded seven catches for 81 yards and a pair of touchdowns receptions. Gainwell also made a highlight reel play in Detroit, as he made one of the best catches of the season, when he laid on the turf and somehow hauled in the football, for a 45-yard score.
On Friday, it was announced that Gainwell was named the Steelers team MVP for 2025. As voted on by teammates, it’s hard to argue the choice, with Gainwell being the glue to hold the offense together.
Gainwell will enter this offseason as an unrestricted free agent. As one of the best NFL bargain signings from a year ago, Gainwell should be in line for a nice payday once the free agency period begins in March.
While it’s unclear who the Steelers quarterback will be next season, or how they try to actually address an impactful WR2, bringing Gainwell back into the fold on a multi-year contract would be huge for the offense moving forward.
Eli Holstein Reportedly Expected to Enter Transfer Portal
p/c: Gareth Patterson
According to On3’s Pete Nakos, Pittsburgh Panthers quarterback Eli Holstein is expected to enter the transfer portal.
A four-star recruit at the University of Alabama, Holstein transferred to Pitt, with the opportunity to be the starting quarterback.
It was an impressive freshman campaign for Holstein in 2024, as he compiled 2,225 passing yards, along with a 17-7 TD/INT, and 328 yards on the ground.
Holstein came into the 2025 season projected to be one of the top quarterbacks in the ACC. However, after losing to West Virginia, and a subpar performance against Louisville, Holstein was benched by head coach Pat Narduzzi in favor of true freshman Mason Heintschel, who remained the starter the rest of the season.
Once Holstein officially transfers, he will be the sixth Pitt player to this point to enter the portal; joining LB Rasheem Biles, WR Kenny Johnson, OL Lyndon Cooper, OL Tai Ray, and QB David Lynch.
Penguins Acquire Yegor Chinakhov from Blue Jackets
By Jason Shetler
p/c: Jason Mowry
The Pittsburgh Penguins made an interesting move on Monday, as they acquired Columbus Blue Jackets right winger Yegor Chinakhov. In return, Columbus is receiving veteran forward Danton Heinen, a 2026 second round pick and a 2027 third round pick.
Chinakhov was a first round selection (21st overall) by the Blue Jackets in the 2020 NHL Draft.
During the 2023-24 season, Chinakhov was beginning to emerge; recording 16 goals in 53 games. However, it’s been a struggle since, as he’s put up just 10 goals combined with last season and this season.
Heinen had split his time with the Penguins and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. While with Pittsburgh, he had only one goal in 13 games played. Heinen has a cap hit of $2,250,000.
The Penguins will be taking a flyer on Chinakhov, who had been highly-touted in the Blue Jackets’ organization. Kyle Dubas managed to turn a liability in Heinen, along with two draft picks, which were originally the Blues’ and Capitals’ respectively, into a young forward that really needed a change of scenery.
What Could the Pirates Outfield Look Like to Open the 2026 Season?
The outfield for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2025 vastly underperformed offensively.Bryan Reynolds is coming off his worst season statistically, while Oneil Cruz’s production fell off a cliff in the second half of the season. Tommy Pham ended up being the Pirates’ most consistent hitting outfielder last season - practically by default.
Earlier in the offseason, general manager Ben Cherington made a surprising decision by tendering a contract to Jack Suwinski, who has been replacement level each of the last two seasons. Evidently, the organization still feels Suwinski can recapture his success from 2023, where he hit a career-high 26 home runs and was a three-win player offensively.
Looking to trade from surplus, the Pirates shipped out right-hander Johan Oviedo to the Boston Red Sox, as part of a deal headlined by outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia. The 23-year-old Garcia is a consensus Top 100 prospect.
More outfield depth was added to the mix, when Pittsburgh acquired Jake Mangum - one of the pieces involved in the Brandon Lowe deal.
A couple weeks ago, it was reported that the Pirates had expressed interest in Chicago White Sox center fielder Luis Robert. In 2023, Robert was one of the best all-around center fielders in baseball, but because of injuries, hasn’t been the same performer since. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic was told that White Sox officials are willing to take on at least half of the $20 million Robert will be owed in 2026. Even if the White Sox were to take on part of Roberts’ remaining money, the Pirates probably wouldn’t have to give up anything real significant.
There was speculation that Bryan Reynolds could be moved to the DH role, but with the recent signing of Ryan O’Hearn, Reynolds will remain in right field. Oneil Cruz stays in center field; unless they make a trade for Robert and Cruz moves over to left field. If not, then there would be a competition in left field consisting of Jake Mangum, Jack Suwinski, and Jhostynxon Garcia. Heading into spring training, Mangum should have the inside track. Suwinski is out of options, so he would need to make the active roster. Garcia might just be the Pirates’ biggest X-Factor among hitters vying for a spot. It’s possible manager Don Kelly could go with a Mangum/Garcia platoon in left to open the season, but given that Garcia is only 23, and has two options remaining, he could be sent to AAA, in order to get regular at-bats for the Indianapolis Indians.
Pirates Reportedly Showing Interest In Yoán Moncada
p/c: Alex Gallardo
Francys Romero of Beisbol FR is reporting that the Pittsburgh Pirates are interested in veteran free agent third baseman Yoan Moncada. Romero says the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels, and Toronto Blue Jays have also shown interest.
Moncada debuted in 2016 with the Boston Red Sox, before getting traded to the White Sox in the Chris Sale deal.
The Cuban born infielder spent eight seasons on the South Side of Chicago, with his best campaign coming in 2019, when put up a .915 OPS, while registering a bWAR of 5.1.
Last offseason, the Angels inked Moncada to a one-year deal for $5 million.
Although he dealt with thumb and knee injuries, Moncada managed to have a respectable season offensively, as he put up a slash line of .234/.336/.448, along with a 116 OPS+. Defensively however, he had a career worst -10 Defensive Runs Saved at third base.
The Pirates could look to upgrade third base; even with the additions of Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn. Pittsburgh is projected to have Jared Triolo as an internal option.
Eugenio Suarez’s name continues to pop up, in regards to the Pirates’ third base search. Another name the Bucs have expressed in is Kazuma Okamoto, who has until January 4th to sign on with an MLB club.
Could Will Horcoff Become the Penguins’ Next Big Star?
Entering the 2025 NHL Draft, the Pittsburgh Penguins had a total of 13 picks. For the first time since 1984, Mario Lemieux’s draft year, Pittsburgh received three picks in the first round.The Penguins chose Ben Kindel 11th overall, who is already making his presence felt in Pittsburgh. Going 22nd was Bill Zonnon. After getting the Los Angeles King’s first round pick (24th overall), Will Horcoff was taken with that selection.
A native of Edmonton, Horcoff has a hockey pedigree, as he’s the son of Shawn Horcoff, who spent 15 seasons in the NHL, including 12 with the Edmonton Oilers.
The 18-year-old Horcoff is opening a ton of eyes, with a breakout sophomore season for the University of Michigan. In 20 games to this point, he’s scored an NCAA leading 19 goals, while his 28 points are currently tied for second most in the nation.
Horcoff is an intimidating, 6’5 center at 201 pounds, with room to fill out. Along with an excellent hockey IQ, Horcoff is a two-way presence; combining a powerful shot, along with being a disrupter on the defensive side.
Before the season, most scouts felt Horcoff would be a future middle-of-the-pack center, but now he’s beginning to emerge as a potentially elite prospect.
Penguins president of hockey operations, Kyle Dubas, is slowly but surely transitioning the team into a youth movement, with the likes of Rutger McGroarty, Ben Kindel, and Ville Koivunen.
While the Penguins have yet to sign Horcoff to an entry-level contract, the expectation seems to be that he could be sent to the AHL as early as next season, with perhaps even getting the opportunity to make Pittsburgh’s Opening Night roster.
Once Horcoff officially signs with the Penguins, he should be the top prospect in the organization, and a chance to become a franchise-altering forward at the NHL level.
Assessing the Pirates Signing of Ryan O’Hearn
In their attempt to improve the lineup for the 2026 season, the Pittsburgh Pirates are signing DH/1B Ryan O’Hearn to a two-year deal worth $29 million, this according to Robert Murray of FanSided. It’s the first time the Pirates have signed a free agent to a multi-year deal since Ivan Nova in December of 2016.
O’Hearn spent the last three seasons with the Baltimore Orioles. This past season was O’Hearn’s first All-Star selection. In 361 plate appearances, he posted a .283/.374/.463 line with Baltimore.
At the trade deadline, the Orioles dealt O’Hearn to the San Diego Padres as part of an eight-player deal.
In 50 games for the Padres, O’Hearn had a slash of .276/.350/.387.
Assessment of the signing: After the Pirates upgraded second base with the trade of Brandon Lowe last week, they also upgrade the DH role with the addition of O’Hearn.
On paper, O’Hearn gives the Pirates a productive designated hitter that they haven’t had since MLB fully implemented the DH in both leagues in 2022.
For Ben Cherington, it’s another solid move to make the Pirates’ substantially better next season.
Breaking Down the Brandon Lowe Trade
p/c: Kim Klement
The Pittsburgh Pirates have made their biggest move of the offseason to this point. According to both Chandler Rome and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Pirates are acquiring second baseman Brandon Lowe, pitcher Mason Montgomery, and outfielder Jake Magnum, as part of a three-team trade with the Houston Astros and Tampa Bay Rays. Mike Burrows is being sent from Pittsburgh to Houston, while Tampa Bay is getting outfielder Jacob Melton and pitcher Anderson Brito from the Astros.
Lowe was a two-time All-Star with the Rays. In 2025, he hit 31 home runs and was a three-win player offensively (3.3 oWAR). Earlier in the offseason, Tampa Bay exercised Lowe’s club option for 2026 worth $11.5 million.
Montgomery made 57 appearances this past season in the Rays’ bullpen. The 25-year-old southpaw had a 5.67 ERA. However, the FIP played up better at 3.92, and he recorded 63 strikeouts in 46 innings pitched (12.3 K/9). Montgomery is a flamethrower; registering 98.7 mph on the fastball, along with a decent slider that averages 89.7.
Magnum was a rookie with the Rays this year. He hit .296 and stole 27 bases, but only posted a .698 OPS in 428 plate appearances.
Burrows was a former 11th round draft selection of the Pirates in 2018. As a rookie, Burrows pitched well, as he put up an ERA of 3.94 in 96 innings of work.
Assessment of the deal: The Pirates instantly make their lineup better with the addition of Lowe, who is a 30-homer second baseman. They also get a hard-throwing, lefty bullpen arm in Montgomery that can run it up to 100, and a speedy/solid defensive outfielder in Magnum.
Although the Astros are receiving a steady pitcher that throws a good fastball and a plus changeup in Burrows, with years of control, it’s surprising that he’s the only player Houston is getting. To make things more interesting, the Rays are taking away from the Astros by acquiring Melton and Brito.
On paper, it’s a stellar move for Pittsburgh, and objectively the best trade Ben Cherington has made as Pirates general manager.