Steelers' Top 3 Quarterback Targets For Maximum Draft Value In 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to enter the 2025 NFL Draft with a lot of uncertainty. It’s always tough to predict which direction the Steelers will go when they’re on the clock, but this year’s draft feels especially pivotal. While the team knows it needs to improve key areas like the defensive line and other spots, the lingering question remains at quarterback. After cycling through veterans and unproven talent in recent seasons, the Steelers are still searching for a long-term answer under center.

Even though the 2025 quarterback class is widely considered weak, that hasn’t stopped the Steelers from showing interest. Holding the 21st overall pick in the first round, it’s unlikely Pittsburgh will be in position to land one of the top-tier prospects without making a major move up the board. But that might not be necessary. With a class full of question marks, there could be hidden value in the middle rounds—and the Steelers might be one of the few teams equipped to find it.

Names like Dillon Gabriel, Will Howard, and Tyler Shough aren’t generating first-round hype, but each has shown flashes that could intrigue a team like Pittsburgh. With the right coaching and system fit, one of these quarterbacks could develop into a future starter—especially in a situation where immediate pressure to perform isn’t overwhelming. Here are the top three quarterback targets that could give the Steelers maximum draft value in 2025.

3.) Steelers Take Tyler Shough On Day 3 Of The 2025 NFL Draft

Tyler Shough has been one of the more difficult quarterback prospects to evaluate in this draft class. He spent seven years in college, with stops at Oregon, Texas Tech and Louisville. His extended college career was the result of a medical redshirt, a COVID-19 eligibility waiver, and multiple injuries. 

That lengthy timeline and injury history have understandably made some draft experts cautious, keeping his stock lower than his talent might suggest. However, his outstanding 2024 season in college has put him back on the radar in a big way.

Shough is widely considered one of the biggest boom-or-bust quarterbacks in this class. But if he’s still available on Day 3, the Steelers should see him as an above-average value pick. 

The later he falls, the more appealing he becomes—especially for a team like Pittsburgh that doesn’t need to rush a rookie quarterback into action. If the anticipated quarterback run comes later than expected, it could create the perfect opportunity for the Steelers to scoop up a high-upside option like Shough without sacrificing premium draft capital.

Despite being older than most of his peers, Shough’s age could actually work in his favor. He brings a level of maturity and experience that many young quarterbacks lack, and he could be better prepared to step into an NFL offense early in his career. For a team searching for value and long-term upside at the quarterback position, Shough could be a smart gamble late in the draft.

2.) Will Howard Falling To The Steelers 83rd Overall

Will Howard is one of the more intriguing quarterback prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. He’s entering the draft with a ton of confidence and a strong belief that he’s being overlooked by many draft analysts. After leading Ohio State to a dominant national championship run in 2024, Howard’s stock has been on the rise. However, there are still questions about whether he’s a true NFL-caliber quarterback or simply the product of being surrounded by elite talent in Columbus.

Howard’s draft grade has fluctuated throughout the process, but there’s growing buzz that he could be selected as early as the second round. Still, if he slips into the third round—specifically to pick No. 83, where the Steelers are set to select—he could represent excellent value. At that point in the draft, you’re not just betting on raw traits, you’re investing in a winner with a proven track record on a big stage.

For the Steelers, landing Howard at 83 would be a low-risk, high-upside move. He has the size, arm strength, and leadership qualities teams covet, and if Pittsburgh believes in their ability to develop quarterbacks, Howard could quietly become one of the better value picks of the entire draft.

1.) Shedeur Sanders Falls To The Steelers In Round 1

When it comes to the best-case scenario for the Steelers from a pure value standpoint, the 2025 NFL Draft presents a lot of unpredictability—especially at quarterback. It’s already clear that Cam Ward won’t be in play for Pittsburgh, as he’s widely expected to go in the top five. 

At one point, Shedeur Sanders looked like a realistic target, but with the New Orleans Saints potentially in the quarterback market after recent setbacks, it now seems highly unlikely Sanders will fall to pick 21. That’s unfortunate for the Steelers, as Sanders was once viewed by Mel Kiper Jr. as the top quarterback in this class—making him a dream value pick if he were to slide.

Another intriguing name is Jaxson Dart, who has climbed draft boards significantly in recent months. Once considered roughly a third-round prospect, Dart has now entered the first-round conversation. However, drafting him at 21 would likely be viewed as a reach rather than a value selection. 

He has the tools and production to justify a first-round look, but the consensus hasn’t fully settled on him as a top-tier guy—at least not yet. For a team like Pittsburgh, which needs to hit on this pick, overdrafting could prove costly.

Still, if there’s any chance that Sanders slides to the Steelers at 21, that remains the ideal outcome. It would represent incredible value and give Pittsburgh a legitimate shot at a long-term franchise quarterback without needing to trade up. As things stand, Sanders slipping in the draft would easily take the top spot on the Steelers’ value board. 

Steelers Could Find Real Value In 2025 NFL Draft Class

There may not be overwhelming hype around the 2025 quarterback class, but there are still plenty of opportunities to find real value. While many view this group as underwhelming, the right system and development can turn overlooked prospects into future starters. For a team like the Steelers, who have quietly done their homework, the chance to uncover a hidden gem shouldn't be ruled out.

Steelers fans are holding out hope that Pittsburgh can strike gold and finally land their franchise quarterback. Whether it’s a high-upside pick in the middle rounds or a late-day steal, the potential is there for the front office to make a savvy move. With smart scouting and a bit of patience, the Steelers could walk away from this draft with their quarterback of the future.

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