Perfect time for the Steelers to groom a backup quarterback
Timing is key in the NFL, and trying to find the perfect scenario to draft a quarterback is something that should be considered. For example, even if a player like Mason Rudolph would have worked out with the Steelers, Pittsburgh would be tasked with the difficult decision of handing him a lofty second contract before he truly proved himself with the team.
If a quarterback is drafted when too early, the Steelers could find themselves wasting his whole rookie contract behind Roethlisberger. However, if they are drafted after Ben already decides to retire, then the rookie quarterback must begin his career without the benefit of learning from a legend, and behind ‘thrown into the fire’ early in his career could cause him to lose confidence.
Unless Ben is planning on playing three more years, now truly is the time for the Steelers to go out and get their future passer. He could learn behind Roethlisberger and take over the reins by the 2022 or maybe 2023 season.
It’s never fun to think about life without Ben Roethlisberger leading the charge for the Pittsburgh Steelers, but we know that day is inevitably approaching. 2021 could prove to be a great year for Pittsburgh to grab their future quarterback in the NFL Draft.