The NFL Draft evaluation process never ends, and the Pittsburgh Steelers proved that again. They sent scouts to witness some college players in person. Two games they monitored saw high-profile quarterback prospects put on a show. According to Alan Saunders of Steelers Now, the franchise has been watching Miami's Carson Beck and Indiana's Fernando Mendoza.
"The Pittsburgh Steelers had scouts out to see two of the potential first-round quarterback prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft this week, sending scouts to see both Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza and Miami quarterback Carson Beck."
While neither Mendoza nor Beck is at the top of any draft boards right now, that could change in a hurry. Both are starting to inch their way into the first-round conversation, and if they keep on their current path, they could go high. The Steelers need a signal caller for next season, barring an unforeseen change of heart by Aaron Rodgers. He is expected to retire after the campaign ends.
Pittsburgh has been scouting plenty of the top quarterback prospects during the early weeks of the college season. Expect that only to ramp up as some high-profile games will expose how these prospects can play in big-time scenarios. Beck and Mendoza are off to a hot start, but they must keep that momentum going in their toughest matchups to catch the eyes of the Steelers.
The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to show their desire to take a QB in the 2026 NFL Draft
Carson Beck, QB, Miami
Beck transferred to Miami after being the starter of the Georgia Bulldogs for two seasons. He has a terrific 2023 season, but his 2024 follow-up was a flub. He moved to the Hurricanes program to try to regain his draft stock. Thus far, it is paying off. He has been sensational in Miami, which has caught the attention of Pittsburgh.
He has already shown up in big moments against Notre Dame and South Florida.
One of the biggest knocks on this quarterback is his lack of mobility. He hasn't been an escape artist like most NFL quarterbacks. He prefers to maneuver the pocket instead of escaping downfield. That could be a massive knock on him, especially with how poor the Steelers' offensive line has been this year. Beck is off to a great start, but he must keep consistent.
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Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Beck isn't much of a runner, and neither is Mendoza.
Both prefer to manage the pocket before they consider dashing up the field. Mendoza has successfully used his football intelligence to his advantage at the start of the season. He relies on his knowledge and quick decision-making to make up for some of his shortcomings. He has been downgraded due to limited arm strength, which could negatively impact his draft potential.
Mendoza is coming off his best performance of the season against Illinois. The quarterback didn't throw downfield much, but he remained efficient on the day. The Steelers adding a quarterback who doesn't chuck the ball deep doesn't sound too appealing. Mendoza remains a top prospect, demonstrating strong football intelligence that could help offset his weaknesses.
Although Beck and Mendoza still have many games ahead that could influence their draft stock, they have performed beyond expectations. They have demonstrated the ability to combine their experience with effective management of their weaknesses. Pittsburgh’s quarterback evaluations are well underway and are expected to continue right up to the 2026 NFL Draft this spring.