The Pittsburgh Steelers are still looking for an answer at quarterback. They’re pursuing Aaron Rodgers, but he won’t be their long-term solution even if he signs with them. The Steelers need to start thinking about finding their next franchise quarterback. Continuing to sign veterans past their prime doesn’t feel like a reliable strategy. Unfortunately, this year’s quarterback draft class doesn’t look very strong. However, former NFL general manager Mike Tannenbaum believes the Steelers would be wise to trade up to select Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders.
“I think an ideal scenario here is for the Pittsburgh Steelers to trade up from 21,” Tannenbaum said Friday on ESPN’s Get Up. “In my mock draft, I had them going up to 10 with Chicago and getting a starter in Shedeur Sanders at 10. I think that’s a great win-win for both the Steelers and Shedeur Sanders.”
Sanders, the son of legendary NFL CB Deion Sanders, seems likely to be the second quarterback off the board next month. While Sanders isn’t a perfect prospect, there are things to like about his game. His arm strength isn’t amazing, but he’s got good accuracy. Landing him could give the Steelers their quarterback of the future.
However, trading up in the draft to select him might be a little too steep for the Steelers. They’ve already traded their second round pick this year for DK Metcalf. They might not have the ammo to move up from 21 into Sanders’ range.
Even if they can trade up, it doesn’t mean they should. Sanders is a fine prospect, but selling the farm for him might be unwise. It’s also unclear where he’ll land in the draft. If the Steelers want him, they might have to go as high as the second or third overall pick. The risk would likely outweigh the reward in that scenario.
There are rumors that Sanders could fall in the draft, though. With how valuable quarterbacks are, it feels unlikely that he’ll drop to the Steelers’ current pick. However, if he tumbles enough, maybe a trade up for him wouldn’t be as expensive.
Aaron Rodgers could also be a massive elephant in the room. If the Steelers sign him, trading up for Sanders might feel counterproductive. Adding Rodgers would be a move to win now. However, trading up for Sanders would be a move for the future. It’s tough to find a balance in that situation.
If the Steelers don’t land Rodgers, a trade up for Sanders could be their best option. There aren’t many other quality veteran quarterbacks left on the market. Without Rodgers, it’s hard to see the Steelers being a serious contender in 2025. Drafting Sanders could be their best option.
