The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering the 2025 NFL Draft with some serious uncertainty at the quarterback position. Of course, they’ve been entangled in the never-ending Aaron Rodgers saga — a storyline that’s grown exhausting not just for the fan base, but reportedly within the Steelers organization itself. Whether Rodgers ultimately lands in the Steel City or not, one thing is clear: Pittsburgh must start thinking about its long-term future under center.
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Steelers' Mike Tomlin and Omar Khan answer questions from the Pittsburgh media.
Even though the 2025 quarterback class is widely viewed as weak, that hasn’t deterred General Manager Omar Khan or Head Coach Mike Tomlin. In fact, Khan is reportedly higher on this class than most evaluators, and there’s growing belief that the Steelers may be ready to take a bold swing at the position. Who they target remains a mystery — but don’t be surprised if Pittsburgh makes a move that raises eyebrows.
On Wednesday morning, a new twist emerged when Andrew Fillipponi — the same local media figure who first broke the Heinz-to-Acrisure stadium news — hinted at a major rumor involving the Steelers and Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe. According to Fillipponi, the team may already have its sights set on Milroe, and is quietly working behind the scenes to make that dream a reality. If true, it would signal a stunning turn in Pittsburgh’s quarterback search.
"The Steelers highest-rated quarterback is…Jalen Milroe," Fillipponi said. "And the Steelers are just figuring out how to get him. Other than taking him 21st overall. Interesting twist on things."
Fillipponi did clarify that this is a rumor he has heard, but it is certainly a fascinating one to consider. The Steelers reportedly had a private dinner with Milroe, which strongly suggests there is real interest. Milroe is arguably the biggest boom-or-bust prospect in this year’s draft.
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University of Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe on the run during a collegiate football game.
He entered the process unsure if he would even attract serious attention from NFL teams after an inconsistent college career. He was benched during the 2023 season but managed to bounce back. In 2024, he showed moments of brilliance mixed with struggles, yet his rare combination of speed and athleticism gives him an elite ceiling.
What makes this rumor even more interesting is the situation the Steelers could be facing. They may want Milroe but are not quite sure how to get him without reaching at pick number 21. If he truly is their highest-rated quarterback on the board, that changes everything. It suggests the Steelers are seriously considering taking a swing on potential rather than playing it safe.
If Milroe is indeed their top quarterback target, it would be a bold move by the Steelers front office. Choosing a player with raw talent and massive upside reflects a clear shift toward building for the future. It also adds a dramatic twist to Pittsburgh’s already complex draft outlook.
Steelers' Round 1 Plans Will Depend On The Run On QBs
Thursday night is shaping up to be incredibly unpredictable, with so many variables in play. As the quarterback market begins to heat up, it’s unclear when exactly the run on signal-callers will occur and which teams will make the boldest moves. For the Steelers, there’s no telling whether they will be able to get their hands on Milroe, Shedeur Sanders, or another surprise prospect.
The uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position is compounded by the potential for teams to trade up, making it even harder to predict what Pittsburgh might do at No. 21. Will they stay patient and wait for the right opportunity, or will they seize the moment and make a bold, franchise-altering decision?
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Former Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe celebrates after a big time score.
Regardless of the outcome, it’s clear that this draft will be full of suspense, and Steeler Nation can expect plenty of twists and turns before Pittsburgh makes their pick. The excitement around who the Steelers might draft is building to a fever pitch, and Thursday night is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting what could be one of the most crucial decisions in the team’s future.
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