NFL Ranks Panthers, Steelers Among Worst Offensive Trios, Backup QBs

The Carolina Panthers, despite recent improvements and a strong finish to the 2024 season led by Bryce Young, Adam Thielen, and Chuba Hubbard, are still ranked near the bottom of NFL offensive trios, positioned at 29th by Sports Illustrated but arguably deserving a higher spot due to their potential and relative strength compared to teams like the Steelers and Colts. The Atlanta Falcons have heavily invested in their quarterback position, signing Kirk Cousins to a lucrative contract and drafting Michael Penix Jr., who took over as starter after Cousins' injury; interestingly, Cousins is ranked as the NFL's best backup quarterback, though his future with the Falcons remains uncertain. Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Colts struggle with one of the league's weakest quarterback-to-receiver pairings, ranked 29th by PFF, highlighting the need for improved quarterback play from Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones. The Pittsburgh Steelers face significant quarterback uncertainty, with Mason Rudolph currently penciled in as starter but ranked poorly both as a starting and backup quarterback; meanwhile, Aaron Rodgers remains unsigned, and the team’s backup quarterback depth is among the worst in the league, reflecting an unstable passing game situation. These rankings and roster assessments underscore ongoing quarterback and offensive challenges for several NFL teams as they prepare for the 2025 season.