Steelers have contentious choices ahead of Big Ben’s pending retirement

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7). Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7). Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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Malik Willis (7) Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports /

Likely Draft Prospects

Assuming the Steelers do ultimately take a quarterback in the first round, who do they take. While there are a few options, the list seems to have narrowed. We know the Steelers are strongly considering Kenny Pickett from Pitt. If the Steelers end up drafting in or around the 15th spot, Pickett should still be on the board, and more than likely, they take him.

Although perhaps if the Steelers are in the 15th or 16th slot, they could trade up to the 7th spot if there is someone they want to make sure they draft. Barring a draft slot higher than 15, the Steelers would not have a shot at Matt Corral, although they are scouting him.

We also know the Steelers have scouted Liberty quarterback Malik Willis; how high they have him rated, though, is anyone’s guess at the moment. After Willis, it’s a fair assumption that Carson Strong may be on the list as well. Sam Howell could be on the list but somehow seems to be more of a long shot to land on the Steelers, for now. That said, the Steelers could change their rankings before now and April.

However, if the Steelers do use their pick on a quarterback, expect to hear either Pickett, Willis, or Strong’s name called as they may be the leading three candidates at the moment. It will be interesting to see if any of that changes come draft day.

Do not take this as an argument for drafting a quarterback in 2022. There are going to be arguments for it and arguments against it. It’s kind of like 1983 all over again. The Steelers could have drafted Dan Marino then chose not to. It was one of the worst draft decisions they ever made in hindsight.

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In 2022 the Steelers could pass on any of the prospects, and it could be a huge mistake or pay dividends; conversely, they could take one and hit big or fail miserably. We won’t know until we see what path the Steelers choose.  However, no matter what choice they make, not everyone will be happy unless it results in a Lombardi Trophy.