The Pittsburgh Steelers have been actively improving their offense in preparation for this upcoming season, signaling a clear intent to compete at a high level. The return of dynamic wide receiver George Pickens provides a solid foundation, while the acquisition of two-time Pro Bowler DK Metcalf adds a dose of explosiveness into the receiving corps. The Steelers have strengthened their quarterback depth by signing Skylar Thompson and re-signing Mason Rudolph, ensuring experienced backup options for the upcoming season. However, these moves have simultaneously intensified the uncertainty surrounding the starting quarterback role. The most prominent rumors center on Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson. Furthermore, the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft presents an additional path for the Steelers to secure their quarterback of the future.
Peter Diana / Post-Gazette
Former Steelers quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger, looks on while quarterback Mason Rudolph throws the football during practice.
To shed light on the evolving quarterback situation in Pittsburgh, Gerry Dulac, a Steelers insider, recently joined the Randy Baumann and DVE Morning Show. Dulac's appearance offered valuable insights into the team's updates and his information from the Steelers organization.
"I do think that they are comfortable with Mason Rudolph that if they have to play him, they're okay with that for now," explained Dulac. "But their plan long range, whether it's this year or next year, is they're gonna go find what they hope is their franchise quarterback."
Rudolph, throughout his tenure with the Steelers, established himself as a reliable backup quarterback. During the 2023 season, he earned a 3-0 record when he started games, coupled with 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. He demonstrated his capability to lead the offense effectively and secure crucial victories. These statistics align with Dulac's assessment. Dulac's point, that there are worse situations then having Rudolph starting, becomes even more relevant if the Steelers cannot land Rodgers. While Rudolph may not represent the long-term quarterback the Steelers are ultimately seeking, he provides an experienced presence under center, capable of leading the team in the immediate future.
However, Dulac's insights also underscore the importance of long-term planning. If this situation presents itself, in order to ensure the Steelers' sustained success at the quarterback position, it's imperative that they pair Rudolph's experience with a young talent. The 2025 NFL Draft presents a prime opportunity to acquire a promising quarterback prospect, one they can develop into the team's future leader. Dulac recently expanded upon this concept during an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, sharing further insights.
"They know it's time to go back to the draft and find a quarterback," Dulac added.
Steelers Will Look At Potential QBs During 2025 NFL Draft
With the draft just weeks away, speculation is running rampant, and two quarterbacks are consistently linked to the Steelers, a view confirmed by Dulac. When asked to highlight notable players, he provided two selections.
"Dart... I know they like Jackson Dart. [He then continued] And I know they like Will Howard, despite how he looked at the combine," Dulac answered.
Jaxson Dart, the dynamic quarterback currently leading the Ole Miss offense, has carved out an impressive collegiate career, showcasing a blend of arm strength and athletic prowess that has NFL scouts taking notice. Over his three seasons at Ole Miss, Dart has amassed a remarkable 10,617 passing yards, a testament to his ability to consistently move the ball downfield. Complementing his yardage totals, he has also accounted for 72 touchdowns, highlighting his knack for finding the end zone and delivering crucial scoring plays.
USA Today
Potential Steelers QB, Jaxson Dart celebrates after winning a big time bowl game.
Dart's physical attributes further enhance his appeal as a potential NFL prospect. He possesses a strong arm capable of making throws to all areas of the field, allowing him to stretch defenses and create explosive plays. Moreover, his exceptional mobility allows him to extend plays, evade pressure, and even contribute as a rushing threat, adding a multifaceted dimension to his game.
As the Steelers evaluate quarterback options leading up to the upcoming NFL Draft, Dart's name inevitably surfaces as a potential target. With the Steelers holding the 21st overall pick, there's a plausible scenario where Dart could still be available when their selection arrives. However, the unpredictability of the draft looms, as teams' strategies and preferences can shift dramatically in the hours leading up to and during the event.
Dulac also highlighted Will Howard, the quarterback from Ohio State University, as another player of interest to the Steelers. While Howard's tenure at Ohio State was brief, lasting only one season, his impact was undeniable. He won the National Championship with them, and his statistics, totaling 4,010 passing yards and 35 touchdowns, highlight his great season.
Mark J. Rebilas / Imagn Images
Potential Steelers QB, Will Howard celebrates during the National Championship.
Howard's playing style is characterized by a dynamic blend of athleticism and accuracy. He possesses the ability to extend plays with his legs, evading pressure and creating opportunities for his receivers. Complementing his mobility, he also demonstrates a knack for making accurate throws, showcasing his proficiency as a dual-threat quarterback. Draft analysts currently project Howard to be selected in the fourth or fifth round of the upcoming NFL Draft. This projected draft position suggests that the Steelers could potentially acquire Howard without expending a high-value pick, offering them an opportunity to add a promising quarterback prospect to their roster.
The strategy of drafting and developing quarterbacks before throwing them into starting roles has been successful, as recently done with the Green Bay Packers' transition from Rodgers to Jordan Love. This proven strategy suggests that the draft could serve as a valuable avenue for the Steelers, regardless of the outcome of the Rodgers and Wilson situation. Whether they join the team or not, investing in a young quarterback prospect through the draft offers a long-term solution. Share your thoughts on this strategy in the comments below!
#SteelerNation
