The Pittsburgh Steelers are navigating a period of quarterback uncertainty, and the rapidly approaching 2025 NFL Draft offers a tangible opportunity to resolve this issue. Despite the significant media attention surrounding the possibility of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers stepping into the starting role, the Steelers may very well turn to the draft to find their signal-caller, particularly with Rodgers' decision still pending. Even if Rodgers does join the team on a reported short-term deal, the Steelers' long-term vision of securing a franchise quarterback could lead them to prioritize that position in this year's draft if they identify a player they believe in.
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Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers looks on before a home game during the 2024 season.
Among the quarterback prospects the Steelers have been linked to in this year's draft, Shedeur Sanders from the University of Colorado has increasingly become a focus, especially after his recent visit with the team. Senior NFL Draft Analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has also commented on this potential pairing during a recent appearance on the Up & Adams Show, sharing his analysis of the Steelers' chances of drafting Sanders if he is available at their first pick, the 21st overall.
"If they didn't take Shedeur [Sanders] and he were there, it would be a pretty big surprise if they pass on a quarterback," Kiper Jr. shared.
Since the retirement of their legendary quarterback Ben Roethlisberger after the 2021 season, the Steelers have been actively seeking their next long-term franchise quarterback. Their initial attempt post-Roethlisberger involved drafting Kenny Pickett with the 20th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. However, Pickett's time in Pittsburgh did not meet expectations, leading to his trade to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024. Subsequently, the Steelers brought in two quarterbacks with experience playing in the league, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, but both were signed to one-year deals and have since moved on to other teams, underscoring the Steelers' continued search for a lasting solution at quarterback.
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Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin (right) and then-quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (left) celebrate after winning the AFC Championship Game to move on to the Super Bowl.
Despite the overwhelming media focus on the potential arrival of Rodgers, the Steelers have yet to receive a decision from the veteran quarterback, and no clear timeline for his response seems to exist, even with the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaching. This lack of clarity has understandably created anxiety among fans who are looking to the draft as a viable alternative for addressing the quarterback position. Adding to this, rumors suggest the Steelers have only offered Rodgers a one-year contract, indicating their potential focus on finding their long-term franchise quarterback in either the upcoming draft or the one following.
Sanders is considered one of the premier quarterback prospects in this year's draft class, presenting a unique scenario with a remarkably wide potential draft range. According to NFL Insider Adam Schefter, Sanders could be selected as early as the third overall pick or fall as far as the Steelers' 21st selection. This significant variance is caused by the diverse positional needs and specific skill requirements that different teams prioritize, creating a plausible path for Sanders to be available when the Steelers make their first pick.
What Do The Steelers Do If Sanders Isn't There At 21?
While the possibility exists that Sanders will be available at pick 21, the Steelers face competition from other teams also interested in the quarterback prospect. Furthermore, the Steelers have needs at other positions that will need to be addressed in subsequent rounds. Notably, the absence of their second-round pick, due to the trade for veteran wide receiver DK Metcalf, significantly elevates the importance of their first-round selection as they weigh options beyond Sanders.
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Former Seahawks WR DK Metcalf runs with the football in a game against the Steelers.
The Steelers also have opportunities to draft a quarterback in the following rounds, and history has shown that players selected later in the draft can still achieve significant success in the NFL. Each draft possesses its own unique characteristics, making it intriguing to see which players will be available when the Steelers are on the clock.
Given this, if Sanders is still available at the 21st overall pick, should the Steelers make him their selection? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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