Report: Steelers expected to extend offer to Darnold

The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to offer quarterback Sam Darnold a contract when free agency opens, a source told The Athletic's Dianna Russini.

The Seattle Seahawks, who reportedly traded quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders over the weekend, are considered the favorites for Darnold, Russini adds.

The Steelers also remain interested in re-signing Justin Fields, who's expected to garner interest from the New York Jets if he hits the open market, Russini adds.

Darnold is widely viewed as the top quarterback available when free agency's legal tampering period opens March 10.

The 27-year-old is coming off a career-best campaign with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024, throwing for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns against 12 interceptions. Darnold led the Vikings to a 14-3 record and was selected to his first career Pro Bowl.

Minnesota chose not to place the franchise tag on Darnold, and the former third overall pick reportedly isn't expected to return to the Vikings.

Fields started the first six games for the Steelers last season, going 4-2. Russell Wilson went 6-6 in his starts for Pittsburgh in 2024, including the playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens in the wild-card round. Both quarterbacks are set to hit unrestricted free agency.