As the NFL Draft approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers are carefully evaluating their options at quarterback – with or without the potential addition of Aaron Rodgers.
Although the Steelers remain interested in the future Hall of Famer, it hasn’t stopped them from eyeing the latest crop of rookie quarterbacks.
One player that’s gained significant attention in Pittsburgh is Jalen Milroe, the dual-threat quarterback from Alabama.
While the Steelers may not be in a position to trade up for top-tier quarterbacks like Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, or Jaxson Dart, Milroe could be an intriguing option.
Projections for Milroe’s draft stock vary, with many anticipating he’ll be taken on Day 2, although some feel he could sneak into the first round.
The Steelers’ interest in Milroe was solidified earlier this week when head coach Mike Tomlin, general manager Omar Khan, and quarterbacks coach Tom Arth met with the former Alabama star for dinner in Tuscaloosa ahead of his pro day.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Steelers are “exploring all options at the quarterback position” and their No. 21 pick may position them to select Milroe.
“Former Alabama QB Jalen Milroe had dinner tonight in Tuscaloosa with #Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, GM Omar Khan and QBs coach Tom Arth ahead of his pro day, per source … Pittsburgh, which continues to explore all options at the QB position, owns the No. 21 pick in April’s draft,” Pelissero posted on X.
It should be noted that many talent evaluators aren’t too high on Milroe as an NFL quarterback.
While his speed and athleticism are off the charts, the fact of the matter is he has struggled enormously with his accuracy and decision-making in the passing game.
Despite the mixed reactions, the Steelers’ interest in Milroe appears to be genuine. As Jeremy Fowler of ESPN explained on the Rich Eisen Show, Pittsburgh’s dinner with Milroe could serve as a significant indicator.
The Steelers have a history of drafting players they’ve dined with, including T.J. Watt and Artie Burns, suggesting this could be more than just a casual meeting.
“I think regardless, the Steelers are going to look into their draft options and take a hard evaluation at the quarterbacks. If not this year, then next year,” Fowler said.
“They don’t have a 2nd round pick now because of the DK Metcalf deal. So if they don’t get Rodgers, or they just get impatient, do they take one in the 1st or 3rd round, this will probbe ably the conversation.
“They were in Alabama with Jalen Milroe and had dinner with him. I wouldn’t understate that because Pittsburgh actually has a penchant for looking into and drafting guys they have dinner with. It’s sort of a tell for them sometimes.”
Milroe’s impressive athleticism is his standout trait, notably a blazing 4.37-second 40-yard dash at his pro day, which caught the attention of several NFL teams, including the Steelers.
However, while his mobility is eye-opening, his accuracy – particularly with intermediate throws – have raised some serious questions.
Some analysts believe his arm strength may be a concern, particularly in the critical middle range of the field.
Despite these questions, Milroe’s potential is undeniable. Mike Tomlin has a strong track record of drafting players with strong character and leadership qualities, and Milroe fits that mold.
The 21-year-old recently completed his undergraduate degree in just three years, showcasing his intelligence off the field as well.
The Steelers have been on the lookout for a quarterback of the future, with Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers mentioned as possible short-term options.
However, with the team facing long-term questions at the quarterback position, Milroe could be a viable candidate for the No. 21 pick.
Though there are still concerns about his development, Milroe’s raw talent could make him an intriguing choice for a team that prides itself on developing quarterbacks and creating winning environments.
In the coming weeks, it will become clearer whether the Steelers will go all in on Milroe, or if they will ultimately pivot toward a more established veteran.
Regardless, the upcoming draft promises to be pivotal in shaping the future of Pittsburgh’s quarterback position.
What are your thoughts on Pittsburgh’s strong interest in Milroe? … With or without Rodgers, would he be a smart pick at No. 21???
