After a dramatic first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers emerged confident they got their guy. Their selection of Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon at No. 21 was a calculated move that reinforced their defensive identity and demonstrated restraint during quarterback desperation.
As Colorado State quarterback Shedeur Sanders slid down the board, Pittsburgh and 11 other franchises determined he wasn’t worth a first-round pick.
The Steelers' discipline was commendable—but now comes the real test. Rounds two and three will define the direction of Pittsburgh’s future under center. According to Bleacher Report’s latest mock draft, the Steelers will miss out on the perfect fit for their system and future: Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe.
In Bleacher Report’s scenario, Sanders is scooped up early in the second round by division rival Cleveland with the 33rd overall pick. Then, in a second gut punch, the New Orleans Saints—who many thought might take Sanders in the first round due to Derek Carr’s shoulder injury—double back and snag Milroe in the third.
READ MORE: Steelers’ 2025 QB strategy is becoming crystal clear (and it’s bold)
That leaves the Steelers settling for Ohio State’s Will Howard, a fine prospect but not the high-upside weapon Milroe represents.
Pittsburgh can’t let this happen.
The Pittsburgh Steelers win the first two round if they draft Jalen Milroe on Day 2 of NFL Draft
Jalen Milroe brings a dynamic dual-threat ability that could finally give the Steelers a quarterback capable of matching the firepower of division foes like Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow. His electric athleticism, strong arm, and fearless mentality set him apart.
He’s not just a scrambler—he’s a playmaker. With development, Milroe could be the answer the Steelers have searched for since Ben Roethlisberger retired.
The key now is timing. If the Steelers believe in his upside—and there are plenty of reasons they should—they must act swiftly. Waiting until the third round could be a fatal mistake. Milroe’s value is climbing, and quarterback-needy teams are lurking.
Omar Khan and Mike Tomlin have shown they can build through the trenches. Now, they must show they can secure the quarterback who will lead this franchise forward. Hesitation leads to someone else developing Milroe into a star.
The time for patience is over. The time to act is now.