The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves at a critical crossroads as they head into the 2025 offseason. After another frustrating early playoff exit, the franchise is faced with some big decisions, particularly at the quarterback position. With both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields poised to hit free agency, head coach Mike Tomlin has a significant task ahead of him: finding a quarterback who can ignite the Steelers’ offense and lead them back to championship contention.
The bright side? The upcoming 2025 NFL Draft presents an opportunity to secure a promising talent like Jalen Milroe, who could be just what the Steelers need.
Jalen Milroe: The Answer Under Center?
While Milroe’s concluding days at Alabama might not have dazzled fans, his sheer potential is noteworthy. Standing at 6’2” and weighing 225 lbs, he possesses a blend of arm strength, athleticism, and rushing capability that’s increasingly sought after in today’s game. What’s exciting about Milroe is his adeptness at manipulating defenses with his eyes, creating spaces for his receivers while showcasing the ability to throw accurately to all levels of the field. His collegiate statistics speak volumes—6,011 passing yards, 45 touchdowns, and a solid 63.7% completion rate, even better when factoring in an adjusted completion percentage of 72.1%.
But it’s not just his arm that commands attention. Milroe has demonstrated impressive mobility, rushing for 2,038 yards and an additional 33 touchdowns during his time at Alabama. This dual-threat nature aligns perfectly with the evolving landscape of NFL offenses that are increasingly favoring quarterbacks who can extend plays and add value on the ground.
Room for Growth
Of course, Milroe isn’t without his areas for improvement. While he’s shown glimpses of composure when facing pressure, there are times when he needs to enhance his awareness to avoid unnecessary sacks or premature exits from the pocket. Learning to master those finer points of the game will be crucial as he transitions to the NFL environment.
What separates great quarterbacks from good ones is often their leadership. Milroe has demonstrated resilience and growth, particularly after facing setbacks, such as his benching in 2023. He responded by rallying his team to the playoffs, showcasing his capacity for improvement under pressure—a trait that could serve him well in the intense world of professional football.
The Steelers’ Path Forward
Milroe presents a tantalizing prospect for the Steelers if they choose to invest in his development. His skill set and potential not only align with the team’s long-term goals but could also help elevate an offense that has underperformed in recent years. The Steelers don’t just need a quarterback; they need someone who can rejuvenate the offense and provide a spark. Milroe could be that breath of fresh air as they look to carve out their identity in a league that’s increasingly favoring dynamic playmakers under center.
If the Steelers play their cards right in the draft, they might just land a quarterback who can not only compete but thrive as they strive to reclaim their status among the NFL’s elite. With the right development and support, Jalen Milroe could soon be the name on everyone’s lips in Pittsburgh.
