Steelers Eyeing Justin Fields as QB1, but Plan to Draft Mid-Round Rookie as Backup,who are the Steelers targeting
The Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be setting their sights on Justin Fields as their quarterback of the future, with Russell Wilson and other veteran options as backup plans for the 2025 season.
However, Pittsburgh isn’t just focused on the present—they’re also looking ahead, with a clear strategy to draft and develop a young quarterback in the middle rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Steelers Targeting Mid-Round QB to Develop
According to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the Steelers are not planning to invest in a top-tier quarterback prospect. Instead, they’re expected to target a quarterback in the third or fourth round, aiming to develop a long-term option behind their veteran starters.
“Right now, their likely focus is on finding a young quarterback in the third or fourth round to be a backup and potentially develop into a future starter,” Dulac reported.
This aligns with Pittsburgh’s activity at the NFL Combine, where they met with several quarterbacks expected to be available outside of the first round.
Notably, the Steelers did not meet with high-profile prospects like Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward, signaling that they aren’t looking to spend an early pick on a quarterback.
Who Are the Steelers Targeting?
During the Combine, the Steelers met with a handful of mid-round QB prospects, including:
- Jalen Milroe (Alabama)
- Will Howard (Ohio State)
- Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss)
- Quinn Ewers (Texas)
- Ben Brosmer (Minnesota)
While Jaxson Dart’s draft stock could rise depending on how teams evaluate him during the pre-draft process, the rest of these names are likely to be available in the third round or later.
If one of them is still on the board when the Steelers pick at No. 83 overall, they may look to add a developmental quarterback with high upside and long-term potential.
A Smart Plan for the Future
By taking a mid-round quarterback, Pittsburgh gives itself a low-risk, high-reward option for the future. With Fields or Wilson leading the way, the rookie QB would have time to develop without the immediate pressure of starting.
If the Steelers hit on the right player, they could have their next franchise quarterback waiting in the wings.
With top-30 visits starting on March 4, the Steelers may bring in more quarterback prospects for further evaluation. But one thing is clear—Pittsburgh is thinking ahead, and their next quarterback could be a hidden gem waiting to be developed.
