NFL Trade Rumor: Cleveland Browns could trade Shedeur Sanders to Pittsburgh Steelers amid no Aaron Rodgers return
With growing support emerging for Deshaun Watson as the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback for the 2026 season, Shedeur Sanders’ position looks dicey. For that matter, FanSided’s Wynston Wilcox suggests Shedeur Sanders could be traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he would be a valued asset and offer a long-term solution to their longstanding QB inconsistencies — especially now, with no news regarding Aaron Rodgers’ return or retirement.
Pittsburgh Steelers could find long term answer in Shedeur Sanders amid no Aaron Rodgers
FanSided’s Wynston Wilcox notes that the Pittsburgh Steelers have not had a consistent quarterback for the longest time. It was Kenny Pickett who starred in 2022 and 2023 consequently. In 2024, the starter was Russell Wilson. In 2025, it was Aaron Rodgers. If Rodgers decides to come back, he would be Kenny Pickett 2.0 for the Pittsburgh Steelers to star in two consecutive seasons.Cleveland Browns second-year quarterback Shedeur Sanders could provide long-term stability to the Pittsburgh Steelers. If at all, Rodgers decides to come back, Sanders could learn from the best on the gridiron.As for his rookie contract, Shedeur Sanders still has three more years left on it. Three seasons could be enough to help him become permanent, considering last was Kenny Pickett who played two seasons successively in 2023.FanSided’s Wynston Wilcox suggests the Steelers should think about themselves first, rather than wait for Aaron Rodgers. They still expect Rodgers to return for the 2026 season, his 23rd.But just in case, he doesn’t return, Shedeur Sanders could be a wise option. There may not be a guarantee on the Year 2 QB, but if there’s no threat to his stance, he may try his level-best to shine well [under no pressure]. Also, his older brother, Shilo Sanders, may not draw unnecessary attention to the quarterback competition with Deshaun Watson in Cleveland.But would the Browns be interested in a trade offer from their divisional rival?
Cleveland Browns could trade Shedeur Sanders if Deshaun Watson is their starter
Heavy Sports’ Cole Shelton reports that if the Pittsburgh Steelers make a bold offer, the Cleveland Browns may trade Shedeur Sanders and make Deshaun Watson a starter and have Year 2 quarterback Dillon Gabriel as backup.Sanders carries weight; he ended his rookie year as a starter with a 3-4 record and also earned a Pro Bowl selection. Plus, the news around Deshaun Watson is too deep to not believe.The Athletic’s Zac Jackson said on the “Zac Jackson and Friends” podcast that there have been whispers that the Cleveland Browns want to play Deshaun Watson.Heavy Sports’ Cole Shelton reports that Deshaun Watson is in the final year of his blockbuster contract, which reassures the Cleveland Browns that 2026 could be Deshaun Watson’s best season; they could start him in Week 1.So, would that leave Shedeur Sanders looking for a backup role in Cleveland? Or looking for another team in the offseason, like the Pittsburgh Steelers? Remains to be seen…
