Steelers Draft: Ranking the quarterbacks of the 2021 NFL Draft
By Tommy Jaggi
Tier 5: Backup quarterback with some developmental traits
Kyle Trask, Florida
Statistical production at the collegiate level can only get you so far. Florida quarterback, Kyle Trask, was one of the most talked-about players in college football this season and received some first-round buzz early in the year. Many Steelers fans really like him, but the more tape I watch, the more I realize that Trask is much closer to a third-round player than a first-round player for me.
Though Trask is listed at 6’5” and 240 pounds, his size doesn’t match his arm talent – which is above average, but unspectacular. Trask can loft the ball deep down the field with plus accuracy at times, but he doesn’t have near the routine velocity of some of the other quarterbacks in this class. He is also a statue in the pocket with little escapability. It’s possible he could develop into a starter under the right conditions, but he’s probably a career backup.
Jamie Newman, Wake Forest/Georgia
The last quarterback who should even be in consideration as a late day-two pick is Jamie Newman. Unlike Trask, Newman has more upside due to his throwing velocity and plus movement skills. However, he is much less proven in college than Trask. Newman needs a lot of work with his accuracy, ball placement, and ability to read defenses. He’s a relatively low risk, high reward prospect, but with little chance of developing into a full-time starter in the NFL.
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More than likely, the Steelers will choose to pass on all seven of these quarterbacks this year, as they may look to build around Ben Roethlisberger for one more season. However, it’s important to have an understanding of the talent in this class in the event that Pittsburgh elects to go that direction in the 2021 NFL Draft.