Phil Jurkovec, Boston College
Phil Jurkovec isn’t cut from the same mold as the three previously mentioned quarterback prospects on this list. At 6’5” and 226 pounds, Jurkovec has the desired size the Steelers typically look for at the position. But don’t label him as a statue in the pocket. Despite his size, Jurkovec is remarkable nimble in the pocket and is an expert at rolling out and making plays.
This is a trait that old Ben Roethlisberger, Mason Rudolph, and Dwayne Haskins all lack (and part of the reason why Rudolph and Haskins have limited upside as franchise quarterbacks). Jurkovec started his first season at Boston College in 2020 after transferring from Notre Dame. But despite just 10 career college starts, he really turned heads with his performance and play-making ability last season.
Jurkovec was compared to a young Ben Roethlisberger at times last season, and it’s not hard to see why. He is remarkably gifted at shaking off defenders and extending the play. His best trait is probably throwing on the move – something Big Ben excelled at in his early years.
In addition to his impressive size and tools, Jurkovec is a Pittsburgh native who has spent time training at the Steelers practice facility. It’s hard to say where he will go in the draft, but with a good season in 2021, he could skyrocket up draft boards. I expect the Steelers to have interest.