No matter how the Aaron Rodgers situation unfolds in Pittsburgh, at some point, the Pittsburgh Steelers have to start thinking about the future at quarterback.
Rodgers has brought leadership and credibility to the position, but at 41, his window is closing -- and there isn’t a clear heir apparent on the roster. Will Howard, drafted a year ago, offers long-term backup potential, but Pittsburgh still needs that next franchise-caliber signal caller to build around.
The 2026 NFL Draft offers intriguing options across all three days -- from an emerging star to steady developmental prospects.
QBs that the Pittsburgh Steelers could consider on each day of the 2026 NFL draft
• Day One: Ty Simpson, Alabama
If Simpson does indeed declare for the draft, he’ll be at the forefront of every QB conversation.
The Alabama signal caller has arguably been the best quarterback in college football through the first two months of the season, commanding the Tide offense with poise and pro-level anticipation.
He’s a natural pocket operator who can slide, reset, and fire with confidence -- but he’s also mobile enough to extend plays and keep defenses honest, a must in today's NFL.
For a Steelers offense stocked with playmakers like DK Metcalf and Pat Freiermuth, and emerging athletes like Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin, Simpson’s ability to process and distribute would fit perfectly.
He’s the kind of cerebral, high-upside leader who could take the reins from Rodgers and keep Pittsburgh competitive for years.
• Day Two: Garrett Nussmeier, LSU / Sam Leavitt, Arizona State
Two quarterbacks could draw Pittsburgh’s attention on Day Two, depending on what style of offense the Steelers want to emphasize. Nussmeier, the LSU product, brings classic pocket-passer polish. He’s been through the highs and lows of SEC football and has come out as a confident, rhythmic thrower who can make every NFL-level pass.
His touch over the middle, pocket toughness, and timing make him an ideal schematic fit for a system built on precision and timing — something that echoes Rodgers’ influence in Pittsburgh.
Meanwhile, Leavitt from Arizona State offers a completely different flavor. At 6-foot-2, 205 pounds, Leavitt is a dual-threat weapon who has produced massive numbers for the Sun Devils, including leading them to a College Football Playoff berth as Big 12 champions last fall.
He’s dynamic, creative, and brings the off-script ability that’s become increasingly valuable in today’s NFL.
• Day Three: Carson Beck, Miami
Beck’s college career has been a journey through multiple programs, systems, and challenges -- and that experience may ultimately be his greatest asset.
Now at Miami, the veteran has proven he can adapt, lead, and execute regardless of scheme or supporting cast. He's seen every coverage, played in high-pressure environments, and developed into a mature, well-rounded pocket passer.
His arm strength and mechanics have always been NFL-caliber; it’s his resilience and command that now stand out. And while he may not hear his name called until late Day Two or early Day Three, Beck offers the kind of high-floor, experienced quarterback prospect who could step in early if needed and serve as a steady presence in Pittsburgh’s quarterback room.
For the Pittsburgh, the search for their next signal-caller doesn’t have to wait until Rodgers officially hangs 'em up.