The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 NFL Draft strategy is a topic of much speculation, especially after owner Art Rooney II's recent comments. In a pre-draft interview, Rooney confirmed that the team is unlikely to select a quarterback with their 21st overall pick, despite whispers of a secret affinity for Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. This decision comes as a surprise to some, given the Steelers' stated desire for an 'AFC North' quarterback with size and experience in the elements. Simpson, at 6'1" and 211 pounds, doesn't fit this profile, and the team showed no overt signs of interest in him.
The Steelers' lack of interest in Simpson is further evidenced by the absence of head coach Mike McCarthy and general manager Omar Khan at his pro day workout. While the team brought in four passers for pre-draft visits, Simpson was not among them. This suggests that the Steelers are not prioritizing quarterbacks in the first round, despite the wide-open field of quarterbacks available.
The Steelers could still draft a quarterback in the later rounds, with Penn State's Drew Allar, Miami (FL)'s Carson Beck, Arkansas' Taylen Green, and North Dakota State's Cole Payton all visiting the team. Of these prospects, Allar might be the favorite. However, the team remains high on 2025 sixth-round selection Will Howard, who has received glowing reviews from head coach Mike McCarthy and offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio.
Rooney's comments also hint at the possibility of the Steelers addressing other positions in the first round, such as wide receiver, offensive line, or secondary. The team's strategy will depend on how the board breaks in front of them on Thursday night. Nevertheless, Rooney's confirmation that the Steelers won't select a quarterback with their first-round pick is a significant development, and it remains to be seen if the team will need to reconsider this decision in the future.
