Things have become murkier regarding the Pittsburgh Steelers' potential future at the quarterback position.
Aaron Rodgers could potentially return, but a lot would need to happen for that path to become evident. Most mock drafts have the franchise targeting a young quarterback, but that isn't as obvious as it was before. A weakened class at the position could force the Steelers into unique circumstances.
Don't be shocked if the club decides to forgo taking a signal caller early in the draft and focus on veterans. A hated rival might be heading for divorce with their quarterback, Joe Burrow. It's unlikely, but his recent comments about not playing football anymore if he isn't having fun are alarming. Burrow would become a top trade target for many teams if he became available this offseason.
Pittsburgh Steelers strike massive trade in latest 2026 mock draft for Joe Burrow
Steelers Mock Draft kicks off with Pittsburgh making a massive in-division trade
Cincinnati would hate the idea of trading Burrow within the division, especially to Pittsburgh. It would take a high price to trade for the star quarterback, and that is something the team would be willing to do. Trying to come up with a deal in this mock draft is difficult, but this comparison is similar to when Matthew Stafford was traded from the Lions to the Rams. However, this is a steeper price to swing.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 2: Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama
Now that Burrow is in the fold, the Steelers must build a proper offense around him. They target Germie Bernard with their first pick in this mock draft to pair with DK Metcalf. His yardage in a season has never been eye-popping at Alabama, but he raised his touchdown numbers this year. He can play inside and outside, plus he has limited experience as a punt and kick returner. He's solid value here.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 4: Xavier Scott, CB, Illinois
It's a shame he only played in three games before suffering a season-ending injury, but Xavier Scott is an intriguing puzzle piece to put into the Steelers' aging secondary.
He can play all over the defense, and that will get Mike Tomlin excited. Scott has lined up in the slot, at the outside corner, and at safety. Pittsburgh could use a couple of different pieces infused into the secondary, and Scott could take away multiple needs.
READ MORE: Steelers’ latest 2026 mock draft raises eyebrows after skipping top priority
Steelers Mock Draft Round 4 (Compensatory): Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
Since they added Burrow earlier in this mock draft, they'd be wise to continue their investment in the trenches. Monroe Freeling is the pick here as the Bulldog can bring a new element of depth to their young offensive tackles. Freeling is the ideal size for a starting NFL offensive tackle, and best of all, he has starting experience on both sides of the line. He could be an upgrade at swing tackle.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 5: Drew Shelton, OG, Penn State
His ultimate test will be during the pre-draft process, but Drew Shelton had a setback this season. He has been the starting left tackle for Penn State over the past two campaigns with mixed results. Shelton couldn't show signs of growth this year, and it could force him into a guard spot, something he has limited experience at in college.
The Steelers could use a boost on their depth chart with a versatile offensive lineman like Shelton.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 6: Zxavian Harris, DT, Ole Miss
There are fewer bigger prospects in the upcoming draft than Zxavian Harris out of Ole Miss. He stands at 6'8 and weighs 330 pounds. He is a mountain in the middle of the defensive line and is coming off his best season of college football. The Steelers would be wise to keep investing picks each year into both sides of the trenches, and Harris can compete for a role during his rookie season.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 6 (Compensatory): Diego Pavia, QB, Vanderbilt
Just because Pittsburgh landed Burrow earlier in the mock draft doesn't mean they won't need to take a quarterback. They gave up Mason Rudolph in the deal, so they need someone to fill out the depth chart and compete. Diego Pavia might be the perfect guy to light a fire at training camp. He plays with a similar intensity to Baker Mayfield, but Pavia isn't as talented as the Bucs signal caller.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 7: Darius Taylor, RB, Minnesota
One area flying under the radar this offseason is the running back position.
Kenneth Gainwell is playing his way into a massive contract in free agency, and Kaleb Johnson has done little during his rookie season. Enter Darius Taylor in this mock draft, and the Steelers might have a steal. He is the perfect size for Pittsburgh's scheme and has shown he can be an all-around running back at the next level.