The Pittsburgh Steelers won’t celebrate hosting the NFL Draft by christening it with a new first round franchise quarterback. Speaking to WTAE’s Andrew Stockey in a pre-draft interview, owner Art Rooney II all-but confirmed the Steelers won’t use their 21st overall pick on a quarterback.
“I think I can tell you one thing, it’s probably not going to be a quarterback,” Rooney told Stockey. “But beyond that it’s wide open.”
Select draft analysts whispered about the Steelers’ secret like towards Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. But the team showed no overt signs in having interest. Mike McCarthy nor Omar Khan attended Simpson’s Pro Day workout. Despite bringing in four passers for visits, Simpson wasn’t among the group.
Pittsburgh has described wanting an “AFC North” quarterback. One with size and experience in the elements. Simpson, at about 6’1 and 211 pounds, who played down south, doesn’t fit that bill.
Pittsburgh could draft a quarterback in the later rounds. Penn State’s Drew Allar, Miami (FL)’s Carson Beck, Arkansas’ Taylen Green, and North Dakota State’s Cole Payton came in for visits. Of that group, Allar might be the favorite.
Rooney didn’t tip his hand what position the Steelers could address. Wide receiver, offensive line, and secondary could all be landing spots. That will depend on how the board breaks in front of them Thursday night. Still, Rooney offered a key piece of information of what Pittsburgh won’t do Thursday night. But if their quarterback woes aren’t’ solved this time next year, it’s doubtful Rooney will be able to rule out the position come 2027.