With 2021 believed to be the final season for veteran quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, the Steelers have a void that will need to be filled.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler believes that void could be filled by Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan.
While Ryan is under contract for the next two seasons, the Falcons do a potential out in 2022.
With the Falcons currently at 5-7, there is the possibility that they want to move on from Ryan who is owed $16.2 million in 2022 and $20.5 million in 2023.
It has been reported several times this year that Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin wants a veteran quarterback under center in Pittsburgh next season and does not want to start fresh with a rookie quarterback.
Names like Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson are just a few of the quarterbacks that have come up in conversations for various reasons.
Fowler says he predicts Ryan could sign a two-year deal for $36 million.
Fowler says Ryan, “ranks 20th in ESPN's QBR (48.0) at age 36. Mobility is an issue, but he can still fluster opposing defenses. Ryan is due $16.25 million in salary and $7.5 million in a roster bonus that guarantees on the third day of the league year.”
He adds that while Atlanta opting out of his remaining contract is possible, he could also see Ryan restructuring his deal as well.
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"That would be good for them," an NFC exec told Fowler. "I would consider [Ryan] a slight upgrade for [the Steelers], at this stage."
The former league MVP has thrown 2,914 yards this season going 286 for 420 with 16 touchdowns, 11 interceptions and a quarterback rating of 89.5.
While Tomlin has reportedly showed interest in picking up a veteran quarterback (who isn't Mason Rudolph or Dwayne Haskins), he has also hinted at wanting a mobile quarterback. Matt Ryan is certainly not that.