Ranking the 7 most likely QB options for the 2022 Steelers

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Steelers
Sam Howell #7 of the North Carolina Tar Heels (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

Steelers could start Howell

The only rookie on this list, Sam Howell has all of the makings of a franchise quarterback based on raw talent alone. He has a good arm, good accuracy, and has great athleticism in and out of the pocket. While the 2021 draft class is extremely weak, Howell has the chance to be one of the best passers in the class. If the Steelers decide to go after a rookie in this draft, Howell checks the most boxes.

He had a down season as a passer in 2021, as most of his offensive weapons departed the year before. Suddenly the offense completely ran through him (literally), and while his passing numbers regressed, his rushing numbers exploded. The biggest issue in his game is his decision-making. He struggles to get past his first read, and this leads to forced throws or him taking off to run too early.

Now, the Steelers have stated that they don’t want to start a rookie quarterback in 2022, but if they did decide to go that route, Howell makes the most sense. Ultimately, I think the team looks elsewhere this offseason, but if they decide they want a rookie, Howell makes the most sense. He fits what the team wants in their next quarterback and would be a developmental option for the long-term sake of the franchise.