Steelers Have The Perfect Quarterback Match: "So Far Superior"

The Pittsburgh Steelers are going to be heavily discussed in the national media until the franchise has found a starting quarterback for the 2025 season. The organization is still waiting on a decision from Aaron Rodgers, but only one person in the entire world knows how long that could take. Currently, the top quarterback on the team's depth chart is Mason Rudolph. Head Coach Mike Tomlin has been comfortable starting him before, but entering Week 1 as the starter is a whole different story. This means the Steelers could be looking for their next quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft.

The Steelers could go many different ways in the NFL Draft. Defensive line help is an obvious priority, while there are holes at running back and cornerback as well. Quarterback is arguably the most important position in sports, so if the organization finds itself in a position to draft one they believe in, they have to take it. 

It seems like a longshot that the team goes after a quarterback in the first round of the event, but if it did, Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart is a prime candidate. Expert draft analyst Todd McShay spoke about Dart in a post on X Friday, where he shared that one of the quarterback's best attributes is throwing under pressure. The analyst has been pretty consistent in saying that Dart will be a first-round pick, and he certainly could be on Pittsburgh's radar.

Most quarterbacks transitioning into the league have trouble with the speed of the game and processing the defense. This is because the player feels the pressure from the pass rush, and most struggle with staying in the pocket and delivering a pass. This is where Dart specializes. He will still have trouble when he first enters the NFL, but he is farther ahead of all the prospects according to McShay.

Dart's ability to hang in the pocket and make throws under pressure should make him a top candidate for Pittsburgh in the first round. The team needs a quarterback, and the prospect has plenty of collegiate experience. He likely wouldn't play right away, but he has a promising future in the NFL thanks to the way he can handle the pass rush.

This is crucial for a quarterback in Pittsburgh, as the offensive line is going through another major shuffle ahead of the 2025 season. Broderick Jones is switching to left tackle while Troy Fautanu will take over at right tackle. In addition to the new position for Jones, the line as a whole is fairly inexperienced. The entire right side made up of Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick, and Fautanu are all entering their second season. McCormick started 14 games during his rookie year, while Fautanu only started one.

Frazier has the makings of an All-Pro, but there will still be a learning curve for him as he enters his second year. Jones has been shaky since entering the NFL, but the franchise is hoping he can return to form at his natural position of left tackle. A quarterback like Dart who can play under pressure might be necessary behind this offensive line.

Steelers Are More Likely To Select A Quarterback Later In The Draft

Pittsburgh has shown in interest in Dart, but the Steelers have a glaring need at defensive tackle. There should be a lot of high-end talent available at the position when they are selecting with the 21st overall pick. It seems most likely that the organization decides to go this route, while waiting until the third round and on to address the quarterback position. 

A player to watch would be Will Howard, who the franchise has met with and there seems to be a ton of interest from both sides. He would likely begin to be considered in the fourth round.

Do you think the Steelers need Dart? Let us know in the comments below!

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