It's not all sunshine and rainbows in Pittsburgh regarding their current hopes for the Steelers. Not enough change has happened during the early part of the offseason that instills favor. Instead, they made minor alterations to the coaching staff that went against what everyone was hoping for. Free agency looms closer, and it could affect who they attack in the upcoming draft.
With a weak group of quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft, expect little interest from Pittsburgh.
Next year might be the time to make a move at the draft and take their next franchise-level guy. This year poses too many concerns with the type of players going into their rookie campaigns. Uncertainty between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields remains, but one of those two will re-sign. Addressing the need in the draft is a good idea, but they shouldn't have starting expectations.
Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
He had a terrible week at the Senior Bowl, but keep Jalen Milroe on your radar. You cannot teach the athleticism that he brings with his game. His lack of hand size is concerning, especially since they are smaller than Kenny Pickett's. His protection of the football has become a headlining issue. Don't be surprised if Milroe witnesses his draft stock fall off.
The Alabama product is someone Tomlin could fall in love with. They want mobility at the quarterback position. Milroe could provide that. He would also fit into the offensive style Arthur Smith has been trying to implement. If Pittsburgh could draft Milroe on day three of the event, he would be worth the shot in the dark.
Dillon Gabriel, QB, Oregon
Starting experience is something Tomlin searches for in the quarterback position. Few prospects have more than Dillion Gabriel. He played for three college programs: Central Florida, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Another thing the Steeler's top coach likes in a signal caller is a high floor. Gabriel would fit both of those criteria.
Gabriel is an older prospect going into the draft who could be a nice backup.
Fans should expect Wilson or Fields to be the starter next year. Gabriel is heading into the NFL after a terrific final campaign at Oregon, which saw him lead a team to a one-loss season. He has the Moxy you are searching for. You could compare him to a smaller version of Bo Nix from the last draft. He would be a day-one backup who could be an average starter at some point.
READ MORE: Steelers 2025 QB options not named Justin Fields, Russell Wilson
Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss
Jaxson Dart has momentum going in his direction. He didn't have a terrific week at the Senior Bowl, but he didn't do anything to damage his image either. Experience is on his side after four years of significant playing time at Ole Miss. Playing that long in the SEC should have most quarterbacks prepared for NFL talent.
Dart checks all the boxes for the Steelers as they look for their next franchise guy.
The best action remains investing in a quarterback in next year's draft. Dart is a solid player, but he is a boom-or-bust candidate. He has the heart of a warrior and has the dual-threat ability that Tomlin desires. He will only be 22 years old in May despite all his starting experience. If the Steelers feel the need to take a swing on a quarterback in the draft, then Dart is their guy.