It's hard to figure out the Pittsburgh Steelers' current draft plans just weeks away from the event. Their potential interest in different high-end quarterbacks in the NFL draft could depend on what Aaron Rodgers decides. If he doesn't give them any sign of a decision, the Steelers could get desperate and feel a need to attack the need in the early rounds.
If Rodgers signs with the team before the NFL draft, they could decide to put that need on the back burner. There is no indication that the veteran quarterback will conclude anytime soon. Most have to believe that Pittsburgh will go into the draft without Rodgers on their roster, with the belief he won't sign. That could lead to another Kenny Pickett-like first-round fiasco.
Everyone remembers the Steelers being the only team that took a first-round quarterback in the 2022 NFL draft. Pickett was their top choice, and he was a disaster. Outside of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, every quarterback in that class was a wasted pick.
Many have compared this group of quarterbacks to the 2022 crop, which has given their fan base uncomfortable deja vu.
Are the Pittsburgh Steelers bold enough to take another quarterback in a weak 2025 NFL draft class?
Would the Steelers be willing to take a quarterback with their top pick in 2025?
It seems unlikely Pittsburgh will use its first-round pick on the position. It might be improbable, but it's not impossible. If a player like Shedeur Sanders slips to their pick at 21st overall, they would be crazy not to consider taking him. Even if Rodgers signs with the team before the draft, having Sanders would provide a future player at the most vital position in football.
Read More: Steelers get creative with two savvy trades in latest 5-round mock draft
Steelers general manager Omar Khan has other needs he must address. He only has six selections to solve his problems. He might not want a quarterback in the first round, but the Steelers have remained in the mix for plenty of prospects. They have hosted three quarterbacks for pre-draft visits and spent some pro days with other players.
Different prospects could start their professional careers with the Steelers. Jalen Milroe, Will Howard, Jaxson Dart, Riley Leonard, and Tyler Shough fill out an extensive pre-draft list. Khan and Mike Tomlin are doing more than due diligence on the position in this draft. Fans should be concerned about a repeat of the Kenny Pickett saga if they overdraft a player.
If Rodgers signs with the club, it is plausible they address the quarterback spot in the draft. Having a young player learn behind Rodgers might be a good decision. It all comes down to when the Steelers are comfortable taking a signal-caller. Taking one within the first couple of rounds could lead to a meltdown. Fans would be more willing to accept a pick if they used one later in the draft.