Pittsburgh Steelers' 2024 NFL Draft: Intense QB Interest

Laila Abdi

4 min read

Post on May 22, 2025

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Kenny Pickett's Performance and the Need for a Backup/Successor

Kenny Pickett's 2023 season performance will heavily influence the Steelers' draft strategy. While he showed flashes of brilliance, inconsistency plagued his play, raising questions about his long-term viability as a franchise quarterback. Analyzing his statistics reveals a mixed bag: while his passing yards might be respectable, his completion percentage and touchdown-to-interception ratio may indicate areas needing improvement. The Steelers’ current backup quarterback situation further fuels the need for a significant upgrade. With Mason Rudolph's departure, the team lacks a proven, reliable backup capable of stepping in should Pickett falter.

• Pickett's Strengths: Strong arm, occasional displays of pinpoint accuracy, mobility in the pocket.
• Pickett's Weaknesses: Inconsistent accuracy, struggles against pressure, decision-making under duress, needs improvement in reading defenses.
• Backup Situation: The current backup options lack the experience and consistency to inspire confidence, highlighting the urgent need for a capable successor via the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Steelers need to seriously consider drafting a quarterback, either as a direct successor to Pickett or as a reliable backup with the potential to develop into a starter. This decision directly impacts their NFL Draft Strategy and future success. Keywords: Kenny Pickett, Steelers Quarterback, Backup Quarterback, NFL Draft Strategy.

Top Quarterback Prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft boasts a promising class of quarterbacks, several of whom could become franchise players. The Steelers’ intense interest is understandable given the potential for a generational talent to be available. Among the top prospects generating significant buzz are:

• Caleb Williams (USC): Exceptional mobility, a powerful arm, and an innate ability to make plays outside the pocket. His dynamic playstyle makes him a compelling option.
• Drake Maye (North Carolina): Known for his high football IQ, accuracy, and pocket presence. Maye’s consistent performance and leadership qualities are attracting considerable attention.
• Jayden Daniels (LSU): A dual-threat quarterback with impressive rushing ability and improving arm strength. Daniels' versatility could be a valuable asset in the NFL.
• Other potential prospects: Several other college quarterbacks may emerge as top contenders as the season progresses and the draft approaches, adding further complexity to the Steelers' decision.

These quarterbacks offer varying skill sets, forcing the Steelers to carefully evaluate their needs and draft a player that best fits their offensive scheme. Keywords: 2024 NFL Draft, Top Quarterback Prospects, College Quarterbacks, NFL Draft Scouting.

The Steelers' Draft Position and Potential Trade Scenarios

The Steelers' final draft position will significantly impact their ability to secure a top quarterback prospect. A higher draft position increases their chances of selecting their preferred player, while a lower position may require a trade to move up. The team’s success in the regular season will dictate their draft slot, but potential trade scenarios must also be considered.

• Trading Up: This strategy would allow the Steelers to secure a highly-rated quarterback, but it comes at a significant cost, potentially requiring them to surrender multiple draft picks.
• Trading Down: Trading down could allow the Steelers to accumulate more draft capital, enabling them to bolster other positions of need while still potentially acquiring a talented quarterback later in the first round or early in the second.

The potential trade partners and the value of the compensation offered will heavily influence this critical decision. Keywords: Steelers Draft Position, NFL Draft Trades, Draft Capital, Trade Scenarios.

Financial Considerations and Contract Negotiations

Drafting a high-profile quarterback carries significant financial implications. The Steelers will need to carefully consider the salary cap implications of a lucrative rookie contract and potential future extensions. Their current financial situation and ability to absorb a significant portion of the salary cap for a quarterback will heavily influence their decision-making process. Contract negotiations with existing players might be affected by the financial commitment required to secure a top quarterback prospect. Keywords: Steelers Salary Cap, NFL Contracts, Player Salaries.

Conclusion

The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2024 NFL Draft presents a critical juncture in their franchise's history. Their intense interest in top quarterback prospects underscores the need for a significant upgrade at this vital position. The team’s draft position, potential trade scenarios, and financial considerations will all play crucial roles in shaping their decision. The 2024 NFL Draft will undoubtedly shape the Steelers’ future, defining their trajectory for years to come. Stay tuned for further analysis on the Pittsburgh Steelers' intense QB interest and their 2024 NFL Draft strategy. Follow us for the latest updates on the Steelers' quarterback situation and their pursuit of a franchise player!