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Just One Hour After Being Released by Steelers, Talented Rookie QB With 8,394 Career Yards Shockingly Expresses Desire to Return — Ready to Sign a “Lifetime Deal” to Chase Super Bowl Glory

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – 12/17/2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ decision to move on from John Rhys Plumlee came quietly, the kind of late-season depth move that often passes without much notice. But less than one hour later, the story took an unexpected turn. The physically gifted rookie quarterback, owner of 8,394 total yards in his college career, publicly voiced his desire to return to Pittsburgh, even expressing a willingness to commit long-term if given the chance.

Plumlee, 24, is not easily defined by a single position. Signed by the Steelers as an undrafted free agent following the 2024 NFL Draft, he served as the team’s fourth quarterback during training camp while also being tested as a wide receiver, kick returner, and punt returner. Pittsburgh saw him as a true athlete — fast, explosive, and versatile — even as his path to a permanent NFL role remained uncertain.

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After being released by the Steelers in August 2024, Plumlee bounced between the Jaguars and the Seahawks. In Seattle, he made the rare decision to fully transition from quarterback to wide receiver in order to compete for a roster spot, a move that highlighted his willingness to adapt at any cost. Though he was ultimately waived with an injury designation during final cuts, the experience reshaped how Plumlee viewed both his career and his purpose in the league.

When the Steelers brought him back to the practice squad in late October and re-signed him again on November 18, many around the league viewed it as a temporary solution for practice preparation. For Plumlee, however, Pittsburgh was never just another stop.

“Pittsburgh isn’t just where I was given an opportunity — it’s where my heart belongs,” Plumlee said. “This is where I learned who I have to be to survive in the NFL. If I’m given the chance to come back, I’d sign a lifetime contract, not for a role or a title, but because I believe this is the team that can take me to the Super Bowl.”

As the Steelers continue searching for long-term stability at quarterback, Plumlee’s words strike at the core of what the franchise has long valued: competition, resilience, and refusal to quit. He isn’t asking for a starting job or special treatment. His message is simple — he just wants a door left open.

The Steelers have not issued an official response. But in a league where depth, versatility, and mentality often define late-season success, the door on John Rhys Plumlee may not be fully closed. And sometimes, the road to the Super Bowl doesn’t begin with a blockbuster contract — it begins with a player who refuses to disappear.

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TIME CHANGE: 49ers vs. Seahawks Game Under Weather Monitoring – Updated Game Information
As the San Francisco 49ers prepare to host the Seattle Seahawks this Saturday night, attention has quietly shifted from the field to the skies. A developing weather system moving through Northern California is expected to impact the Santa Clara region during the final weekend of the regular season, placing this Week 18 NFC West showdown under close monitoring. According to regional forecasts and weather services tracking the system, conditions in and around Santa Clara could include periods of rain, gusty winds, and cooler evening temperatures. While no severe storm warnings are currently in place, forecasters caution that shifting conditions could still affect travel, stadium operations, and fan attendance at Levi’s Stadium. Meteorologists note that slick roadways, variable winds, and changing evening conditions could present logistical challenges for fans and staff surrounding the 49ers–Seahawks matchup. Fans planning to attend the game are encouraged to monitor local forecasts closely and allow extra time for travel as conditions evolve throughout the day. At this time, the NFL has not announced any official schedule changes. However, league officials are actively monitoring the situation, and a short kickoff adjustment remains possible should weather conditions deteriorate closer to game time. Any potential delay would be considered strictly as a safety precaution for players, stadium personnel, and fans. Game Information (Subject to Weather Monitoring) Week: Week 18 – 2025 NFL Season Matchup: Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers Date: Saturday, January 3, 2026 Kickoff Time: 5:00 PM PT / 8:00 PM ET (weather monitoring ongoing) Location: Levi’s Stadium – Santa Clara, California Broadcast (U.S.): ABC & ESPN (simulcast, Saturday Night Football) Streaming: NFL+, ESPN app/website, Fubo International Viewing: NFL Game Pass (International) Broadcast coverage will remain flexible if necessary. Fans are encouraged to follow official 49ers channels, NFL announcements, and local news outlets for real-time updates regarding any potential kickoff adjustments. Pregame programming may also be affected depending on how conditions develop throughout the day. Weather analysts continue to track the system closely, emphasizing preparedness for those attending the game in person. Officials from both the 49ers and Seahawks are coordinating with league and stadium personnel to ensure all contingencies are addressed should conditions change rapidly. For now, all Week 18 preparations remain in place. Despite the weather uncertainty, the game remains scheduled for its primetime Saturday night window — a matchup that will decide the NFC West title and the No. 1 seed in the NFC, carrying home-field advantage throughout the playoffs and a first-round bye. As of this update, kickoff remains set for 5:00 PM PT / 8:00 PM ET on ABC and ESPN, though the situation remains fluid as weather conditions continue to move through the region. Fans are advised to stay informed, plan accordingly, and prioritize safety as the regular season reaches its dramatic conclusion.