Steelers Eyeing Quarterback Ahead of Playoffs

In a surprise move that’s sure to stir the Steelers’ faithful, Pittsburgh recently brought in free agent quarterback Zack Annexstad for a tryout on Monday. At just 24, Annexstad is a rookie eager to leave his mark on the league. Initially, he found a home with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent earlier this year, but he’s been seeking a new opportunity since parting ways with the team in August.

Standing tall at 6-foot-3 and weighing in at 220 pounds, Annexstad has been on a journey of resilience and perseverance. The Steelers, notable for their strategic maneuvers, have navigated the 2024 season with a trio of quarterbacks, with seasoned Kyle Allen as their reliable No. 3 behind current starters Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. While Allen provides a steady veteran presence, the Steelers have noticed the absence of a developmental prospect on their practice squad, a gap they’ve felt during injury hiccups involving Wilson and Fields.

Annexstad’s background paints a picture of a player who’s faced his share of challenges and comebacks. Originating from Norseland, Minnesota, he initially made waves at the University of Minnesota back in 2018.

His tenure as a Golden Gopher started promisingly as he clinched the starting QB position as a true freshman. However, an injury curtailed his debut season, and a subsequent foot injury sidelined him for all of 2019, paving the way for Tanner Morgan—another quarterback familiar to the Steelers from their 2023 training camp.

Seeking greener pastures and more playing time, Annexstad transferred to Illinois State for the 2022 and 2023 seasons. With the Redbirds, he impressed with his arm strength and football IQ, recording a completion rate of 66% while amassing 3,547 yards through the air, complemented by 27 touchdowns and a manageable 12 interceptions. His statistics speak to a player who not only embraces the grind but excels when given the chance to lead.

For the Steelers, Annexstad’s tryout could hint at planning for the playoffs and beyond. Perhaps they envision him as a security measure for the final stretch of the season, or they might eye him for a reserve/future contract, a move that could align with their long-term ambitions. As teams are set to begin signing players for 2025 future contracts starting next week, Annexstad’s timing may just be perfect to carve out a role in Pittsburgh’s evolving quarterback narrative.