In an effort to bring some healthy competition to their quarterback position, the Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly exploring the possibility of adding veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill to their roster for the upcoming season. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Steelers are expected to pursue Tannehill, who is set to become a free agent after spending the last five seasons with the Tennessee Titans.

The Steelers' decision to target Tannehill comes shortly after the hiring of offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who previously worked as Tannehill's offensive coordinator in Tennessee. Smith's familiarity with Tannehill's playing style and strengths could potentially be a valuable asset in integrating the veteran quarterback into the Steelers' offensive system.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin had emphasized the importance of introducing competition for their young quarterback, Kenny Pickett, during his season-ending news conference in January. Pickett, who was sidelined with an ankle injury towards the end of the previous season, was benched in favor of backup Mason Rudolph during the playoffs.

With Rudolph set to hit the free agency market, Tomlin aims to ensure that the Steelers have a second quarterback to compete with Pickett for the starting role. "There will be competition," declared Tomlin, reaffirming his belief in Pickett's potential while emphasizing the need for a challenging environment.

Pickett, currently in his third year of a four-year, $14 million rookie contract, has shown promise but has struggled to deliver consistent statistics. In his rookie season, he threw for seven touchdowns and nine interceptions, while completing 62% of his passes for an average of 172.5 yards per game. In the 2023 season, Pickett improved slightly, recording six touchdowns and four interceptions with a completion rate of 62% and an average of 172.5 passing yards per game.

The Steelers' offensive struggles have been evident, ranking 25th in the NFL in both total and passing offense, as well as 28th in points scored during the 2023 season. Despite these challenges, the team managed to secure a wild-card playoff berth, largely due to their formidable defense that forced 27 turnovers. Unfortunately, their postseason journey was short-lived as they fell to the Buffalo Bills in the first round.

Meanwhile, Ryan Tannehill, 35, has been a productive quarterback during his tenure with the Titans. Over five seasons, he threw for 90 touchdowns and 40 interceptions, while completing an impressive 66.6% of his passes for an average of 215.6 yards per game in 63 appearances. Although the Titans drafted Will Levis as a quarterback prospect last year, they handed him the reins for the second half of the season, signaling their intention to pivot towards the future.

The potential addition of Tannehill to the Steelers' roster could provide valuable experience and competition for Pickett, boosting the team's offensive capabilities. As the offseason approaches, the Steelers will continue their pursuit of Tannehill while keeping an eye on other quarterback prospects in the market.