At 8-3, the Pittsburgh Steelers are the current leaders in the always-brutal AFC North.
In many ways, the Steelers are one of the bigger surprises in the league this season – and quarterback Russell Wilson is a major reason why.
Don’t get me wrong. No one is saying that Wilson is playing at prime-Seattle level Russ. However, he’s exceeded most people’s expectations to this point.
While Pittsburgh fans are largely focused on this season and seeing if Wilson and company can make some legitimate noise in the playoffs, others are taking a look into the future.
Speaking of which, ESPN NFL Draft guru Matt Miller recently predicted a potential quarterback shakeup in Pittsburgh.
Miller released his latest mock draft, where he has the Steelers selecting polarizing Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe in the first round.
“#28. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-2): Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama“
“The Steelers’ future at quarterback is a big question heading into the offseason, as both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields are set to be free agents. Either could return, but the Steelers might be searching for a more long-term option. Milroe has a combination of Wilson’s arm strength and pocket mobility and Fields’ rushing ability. He’s still a bit raw as a prospect, but he has thrown 15 touchdown passes and rushed for 17 more scores this season. Milroe just needs to improve his touch as a passer, but scouts I’ve talked to have said he has the most upside of any draft-eligible quarterback in the class. And should the Steelers re-sign Wilson, Milroe could sit, learn and develop further.” -Miller
However, not everyone can envision the Steelers drafting Milroe.
Beloved Pittsburgh reporter Mark Kaboly strongly refuted the speculation during his recent “Steelers Mailbag.”
When asked whether the Steelers’ future quarterback is already on the roster, Kaboly offered a definitive response.
“Yeah, it’s Russell Wilson and Kyle Allen will be his backup. Now, they aren’t drafting Jalen Milroe so forget about that,” Kaboly posted on X.
Kaboly’s comments leave little doubt about Pittsburgh’s immediate plans for the position, even as Miller’s mock draft ignited debate.
After parting ways with the Broncos following a disastrous stint in Denver, Wilson joined the Steelers on a one-year contract.
Pittsburgh also acquired Justin Fields from the Chicago Bears, seemingly bridging their quarterback gap for the 2024 season.
However, both quarterbacks are slated for free agency in 2025, raising questions about the team’s next move.
Kaboly’s remarks in his mailbag suggest Pittsburgh is preparing to extend Wilson’s stay, making him their cornerstone at quarterback beyond this season.
Initially, Fields began the season as the Steelers’ starter, but a Week 6 return from a calf injury gave Wilson the opportunity to reclaim a starting role.
The decision, though scrutinized at first, now appears to have paid off. Under Wilson’s leadership, Pittsburgh has gone 4-1, revitalizing their playoff hopes.
In his five starts for the Steelers, Wilson has completed 63.1% of his passes, amassing 1,212 yards with seven touchdowns and just two interceptions.
The veteran quarterback’s steady play has helped quell doubts that arose during his concerning struggles in Denver.
While Kaboly exuded confidence in Wilson’s future with the Steelers, the team’s draft intentions remain speculative.
Historically, head coach Mike Tomlin and the Steelers’ front office have kept their strategies under wraps.
Whether Miller’s projection of a Jalen Milroe selection holds weight will likely remain unclear until closer to the 2025 NFL Draft.
Considering Wilson’s age, the Steelers will most likely draft a quarterback at some point in April’s draft.
Having said that, do you think Pittsburgh should spend their first rounder on Milroe?
If not, who else should they have their eye on???
