According to most "experts" who cover the NFL Draft each year, this will not be the best crop of rookies coming out of college. It is not as strong as previous groups of rookies who have entered the professional ranks. Few mock drafts have included quarterbacks going to the Steelers, but others have boldly decided to neglect the position entirely.
It doesn't matter if Wilson or Fields return because the Steelers should be in the quarterback market.
Even though this is not a great class regarding the upcoming quarterback group, they must remain focused on finding the future. If Fields does return as the starter and Wilson walks, then two spots on the depth chart remain. It would be wise to sign a free agent and draft someone to fill the room. That is where the National Championship of College Football comes into the picture.
Ohio State and Notre Dame battled it out for the glory of victory. The Fighting Irish didn't have enough in the tank and fell 34-23. One thing stood out when you watched both starting quarterbacks put everything they had on the line. It was a quality duel that saw Will Howard and Riley Leonard fight until the bitter end.
Will Howard, QB, Ohio State
Howard is now riding off a high after winning the National Championship. Not many other quarterbacks have been able to jump their draft stock like Howard did this past campaign. He transferred to Ohio State this past year to do his best in the starting role. He held onto the job and never looked back. The fifth-year Senior has all-around talent who could ascend draft boards.
There are plenty of things to like in his game, including a solid air strike that's ground up with some hard-nosed running. The Steelers are searching for a quarterback who provides mobility to his game. Mike Tomlin will love this player and the type of experience he brings to the NFL. Ohio State offers a pro-style offense, which should make an easier transition to the pros.
Most draft pundits have Howard getting picked between rounds two and three.
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Riley Leonard, QB, Notre Dame
Many have criticized Howard for having immense talent surrounding him, but he still performed at a high level. Leonard had a strong run game and a quality defense that he could depend on. Notre Dame was a strong team that fought to the Championship matchup, and Leonard was the brightest star for their team in that contest.
Leonard had high draft projections when he led Duke to a great start a year earlier before falling to injury. His move to Notre Dame was beneficial as the prospect is a perfect mold for an NFL quarterback. Leonard has shown toughness and the ability to use his legs to extend plays. The Fighting Irish signal-caller might not be a perfect prospect, but he has plenty of tools you can develop.
He still has time to raise his draft stock, but many project Leonard getting selected between rounds three and five.