During the offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback room underwent a significant overhaul, marking a departure from the previous season's lineup. Notably, not a single quarterback from the 2023 roster remains on the current roster, signaling a complete transformation in the team's approach to this crucial position.
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Steelers QB Russell Wilson shakes hands with former Steelers QB Mason Rudolph after a regular season game in Pittsburgh.
In a strategic move aimed at bolstering their quarterback corps, the Steelers secured the services of seasoned veteran Russell Wilson, enticing him with a one-year contract valued at the veteran minimum. Wilson's arrival injects a wealth of experience and leadership into the team, promising to elevate their performance on the field.
Additionally, the Steelers orchestrated a trade to acquire the dynamic talent of Justin Fields, adding a dynamic dimension to their quarterback arsenal. Fields' versatility and raw talent make him a formidable force, capable of igniting the Steelers' offense and driving them towards future success.
Further fortifying their quarterback depth, the Steelers welcomed Kyle Allen into their ranks, providing valuable depth and competition within the team. Allen's presence adds another layer of competitiveness to the quarterback room, ensuring that each player pushes themselves to excel and secure their role within the team.
Given the formidable array of quarterback talent now at their disposal, the notion of the Steelers drafting a quarterback early in the upcoming draft seems almost inconceivable. The team's proactive approach to securing top-tier talent through trades and signings has effectively addressed any immediate needs at the quarterback position, leaving little room for speculation about drafting a quarterback.
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Oregon Ducks QB Bo Nix stands back in the pocket during a regular season game in college.
However, despite the comprehensive overhaul of the quarterback room, speculation and rumors persist in the media. CBS Sports' Garrett Podell recently linked the Steelers to Oregon star quarterback Bo Nix, suggesting him as the ideal fit for the team. While such conjecture may capture attention, the reality of the Steelers' offseason moves suggests a different trajectory for their quarterback strategy. Podell detailed his final thoughts on Nix as an NFL prospect.
"Nix is the most experienced NFL Draft prospect ever, entering the league with 61 collegiate starts, the most ever for a quarterback across the span of his five-season career. He has a pro-ready stature and is tough to defend when he gets in rhythm via quick passes and run-pass-option plays. Nix had the second-lowest sack rate in the country (1.3%) last season among qualified passers thanks to his ability to move within the pocket."
Podell indicated that Nix's draft prospects range from the second to the third round. He emphasized Nix's potential compatibility with the Steelers, attributing it primarily to the hiring of Pittsburgh's new offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith. Smith's arrival this offseason signifies the team's proactive approach to addressing the longstanding offensive challenges they've faced.
Steelers Not Likely To Draft A Quarterback In 2024
The Steelers are unlikely to draft Nix, given their more pressing needs and the developments of this offseason. Quarterback concerns are currently at the bottom of their priority list. While they may consider scouting for potential value in later rounds, it wouldn't align with their strategic goals.
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Oregon Ducks' QB Bo Nix runs with the football during the Senior Bowl.
With Fields, a 25-year-old slated to back up Wilson, the team is well-prepared in the quarterback department. Wilson, a seasoned veteran at 35, might face challenges in the upcoming 2024 season, prompting a potential transition to Fields if necessary. Looking ahead, crucial decisions loom after this season, with Wilson expressing his desire for a long-term commitment to Pittsburgh.
The 2024 season will serve as a pivotal indicator of the Steelers' future quarterback plans. While selecting a quarterback would shed light on their current stance, it's probable that they will first explore all avenues with Wilson and Fields before addressing other quarterback prospects in the draft. After the 2024 seasons ends, Steeler Nation will have a much clearer direction of the quarterback plans.
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