The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering a crucial offseason, with their quarterback situation front and center following a 10-8 season that saw both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson under center.
With both quarterbacks set to hit free agency when the new league year begins on March 12, head coach Mike Tomlin and general manager Omar Khan will need to decide whether to stick with a veteran presence or look toward the future.
One possible solution? Drafting a young quarterback to develop.
According to a recent Pro Football Network mock draft, the Steelers could target Alabama’s Jalen Milroe with the 52nd overall pick in the second round.
“Sitting in the middle of the second round might prove to be the perfect spot for the Steelers to get Jalen Milroe,” Pro Football Network wrote.
“Chances are they may decide to trade up just because sitting and waiting for a quarterback to fall to you on Day 2 will feel like a risky proposition, but free agency will shape that narrative to some extent.”
Milroe (6-foot-2, 225 pounds) made a name for himself in 2023, leading Alabama to an SEC championship and a College Football Playoff berth.
That season, he threw for 2,834 yards, 23 touchdowns, and just six interceptions while also rushing for 531 yards and 12 scores.
However, his production as a passer took a major hit in 2024 under new head coach Kalen DeBoer.
His passing numbers dipped slightly to 2,844 yards and 16 touchdowns, while his interceptions jumped to 11.
Still, Milroe showcased his elite athleticism, setting an Alabama record with 20 rushing touchdowns and adding a career-high 726 rushing yards during the Tide’s 9-4 season.
While his raw talent and physical tools make him an intriguing prospect, scouts recognize Milroe’s potential but also acknowledge that certain parts of his game have a very long ways to go.
“Milroe is the most athletic quarterback in the group and has an incredible cannon for an arm,” Pro Football Network added. “Accuracy and decision-making are the knocks on him, especially on passes in those short to intermediate areas. However, that is an easier trait to coach up than athleticism and arm strength.”
If Pittsburgh were to select Milroe, he would be paired with rising star wide receiver George Pickens. (Not that he would start right away.)
Interestingly, Pro Football Network also projects the Steelers to bolster their receiving corps by drafting Missouri wideout Luther Burden III with the No. 21 overall pick.
Of course, the Steelers’ approach to the draft will largely depend on what happens with Wilson and Fields in free agency.
Before any decisions are finalized, Milroe and other top quarterback prospects will have a chance to impress scouts at the NFL Combine, scheduled for Feb. 27 – March 2.
The 2025 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where Pittsburgh will have a chance to solidify its quarterback situation for the future.
What are your thoughts on Milroe being on Pittsburgh’s radar? … Should the Steelers draft him and have him develop behind a veteran such as Wilson, Fields, or perhaps Aaron Rodgers???
