BREAKING:The Pittsburgh Steelers have kicked off their 2025 offseason by bringing in former Miami Dolphins quarterback….Read more

The Pittsburgh Steelers have initiated their 2025 offseason by signing former Miami Dolphins quarterback Skylar Thompson. Thompson’s signing marks a notable move as the Steelers prepare for potential changes within their quarterback room.

Skylar Thompson, 27, was originally selected by the Miami Dolphins in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft following an impressive collegiate career at Kansas State. During his three seasons with the Dolphins, Thompson appeared in 10 games, including three starts. In the 2024 season, he played in three games, starting once, and completed 21 of 33 passes for 187 yards, achieving a completion rate of 63.6%. Additionally, Thompson started in the Dolphins’ AFC Wild Card playoff game against the Buffalo Bills in January 2023, where he threw for 220 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions in a narrow loss.

The Steelers’ decision to sign Thompson comes as the team faces uncertainty at the quarterback position. The Steelers currently have three quarterbacks—Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and Kyle Allen—who are all set to become free agents in March. Wilson, who joined the Steelers on a one-year deal after being released by the Denver Broncos, has expressed a desire to remain with the team. However, at 36 years old, his long-term role remains uncertain. Justin Fields, acquired from the Chicago Bears, started the first six games of the 2024 season and helped lead the team to a 10-7 record, culminating in a playoff appearance. Despite their efforts, the Steelers were eliminated in the AFC Wild Card round. Kyle Allen, meanwhile, served primarily in a backup role and is also headed for free agency.

By adding Thompson, the Steelers now have at least one quarterback under contract heading into the offseason. Although Thompson’s NFL experience has been limited, his ability to step into high-pressure situations, such as starting a playoff game, adds valuable depth to the quarterback room. Financial details of Thompson’s contract have not been disclosed, but it is likely structured as a short-term deal with a modest base salary and performance-based incentives. This allows the Steelers to evaluate Thompson’s fit within their system without making a significant financial commitment.

Thompson’s path to the NFL began at Kansas State, where he was a productive dual-threat quarterback. Over five seasons, he amassed 7,134 passing yards, 42 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions, along with more than 1,000 rushing yards. His athleticism and leadership qualities made him a standout at the collegiate level and helped him transition to the professional game. In Miami, Thompson primarily served as a backup, stepping in when injuries sidelined starting quarterbacks. Despite limited opportunities, he displayed resilience and adaptability, which likely appealed to the Steelers as they evaluated their options.

The Steelers have been searching for stability at quarterback since the retirement of longtime starter Ben Roethlisberger after the 2021 season. Over the past few years, the team has explored different options, including Wilson and Fields, but has yet to identify a long-term solution. The addition of Thompson provides a fresh perspective as the organization assesses its options moving forward.

As the offseason progresses, the Steelers will need to make key decisions about their quarterback situation. Re-signing Wilson or Fields could provide continuity, while Thompson offers competition and potential for growth. Head Coach Mike Tomlin and his staff will likely use training camp and preseason games to evaluate Thompson’s abilities and how he fits within the team’s offensive system. His performance during these periods will determine whether he can compete for a larger role or serve as a backup for the 2025 season.

For Thompson, this opportunity represents a chance to revitalize his career. With the possibility of veteran quarterbacks leaving Pittsburgh in free agency, he has an opportunity to compete for a more prominent role within the team. His limited NFL experience has exposed him to the challenges of the league, and he will aim to leverage that knowledge as he integrates into the Steelers’ system.

The signing of Skylar Thompson signals the Steelers’ proactive approach to addressing the quarterback position ahead of free agency. As they navigate the uncertainties surrounding Wilson, Fields, and Allen, Thompson’s addition provides depth and a potential spark for the team. While the financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, the structure is likely designed to give both the player and the organization flexibility. As the Steelers prepare for the 2025 season, Thompson’s presence offers hope for a smoother transition at quarterback and adds an intriguing storyline to the team’s offseason preparations.