Steelers Insiders Fight Over Mike Tomlin's Uninterested Stance On QB Jaxson Dart

The Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback situation has been murky since the 2024 season ended. The Steelers have invested everything in their pursuit of 41-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but even if they land him, they'll still need to start thinking about the future of the quarterback position. The 2025 NFL Draft class is considered relatively weak at the quarterback spot, but that hasn't stopped Pittsburgh from doing their research. On Friday morning, it was announced that the Steelers were having a pre-draft visit with Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart.

The controversy started whenever Steelers insider Mark Kaboly took to social media to belittle this meeting, stating that Mike Tomlin, the Steelers head coach, wasn’t even expected to be involved. That would suggest little interest in Dart, especially if Tomlin wasn’t even there. Kaboly's remarks sparked a debate among fans and insiders, as many wondered if this meeting truly signified any serious pursuit of the young quarterback.

However, Steelers Senior Director of Communications Burt Lauten fired back, stating that Kaboly’s sources were wrong, not once, but twice. Lauten clarified that Tomlin was, in fact, expected to be present at the meeting, which seemed to directly challenge Kaboly’s claim. Lauten's response only added fuel to the fire, making it clear that Tomlin’s involvement was part of the Steelers’ evaluation process, despite the early claim that he wouldn't be present. With Pittsburgh still navigating their future at quarterback, this back-and-forth has only heightened the intrigue surrounding their draft strategy.

Lauten's response shifted the narrative, raising questions about how seriously the Steelers are considering Dart in their quarterback search.

"Top 30 visits are important, but you can't read everything into it," Kaboly posted. "Maybe it is to re-check medical or didn't have a chance to meet at combine? Mike Tomlin is not expected to be at team facility today for Jaxson Dart meeting so there is that."

Dart is a name that’s becoming increasingly intriguing in draft circles. National media outlets have been mocking him to the Steelers in the first round, but locally, many in Pittsburgh believe that scenario isn’t all that realistic. Dart’s stock has risen primarily due to strong performances in workouts and pre-draft activities, but also because the quarterback class as a whole is considered weaker this year. With that, it was expected that Dart would climb the boards—and he certainly has.

Regardless of whether Rodgers joins the Steelers or not, Pittsburgh will need to secure a younger quarterback who can be the future of the franchise. The question now is whether they’ll use an early pick to draft one in a relatively weak quarterback class or look for value later in the draft. With Dart’s rising stock, it’s clear that the Steelers are keeping all options on the table as they look ahead to the future of their quarterback position.

Many Steelers fans have had mixed feelings about the idea of drafting Dart, especially with the 21st overall pick. This hesitation stems largely from the aftermath of the team’s decision to take Kenny Pickett in the 2022 NFL Draft, which didn't exactly pan out as many had hoped. However, that doesn’t seem like a legitimate reason to avoid Dart if the Steelers see potential in him as a future franchise quarterback. If they believe he has the tools to be that guy, it would make sense to take a shot on him, even if it comes with some risk.

Steelers Could Miss Out In 2025 NFL Draft

Another factor complicating the situation is the Steelers' clear need to strengthen their defensive line. This year’s draft class is considered strong at that position, and the Steelers could miss out on an opportunity to bolster their defense if they prioritize a quarterback too early. It’s a delicate balancing act, with no perfect answer. However, the situation will soon be settled when the Steelers are on the clock in the 2025 NFL Draft.

The ongoing debate among insiders over Tomlin’s interest in Dart only adds to the intrigue surrounding the Steelers' upcoming decision. With so much riding on this pick, the team’s strategy is sure to have a significant impact on their future, making this draft a pivotal moment in their future.

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