Steelers Projected To Obtain Dynamic Franchise Quarterback In 2026 Draft

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ front office may already be thinking well beyond the 2025 season. With Aaron Rodgers locked into a one-year contract, the quarterback spotlight in Pittsburgh is expected to shine even brighter in 2026. While the present centers around Rodgers’ experience and leadership, ESPN’s recent mock draft suggests that the future could belong to one of the most electric young prospects in college football: LaNorris Sellers.

Matt Miller of ESPN dove into an early look at the 2026 NFL Draft and projected a surprising but compelling fit between the University of South Carolina quarterback and Pittsburgh. His analysis highlights not only Sellers’ rare physical tools, but also why Pittsburgh could be circling the position again just one year after signing Rodgers.

“Aaron Rodgers eventually signed with the Steelers, but all signs indicate it’s a one-year arrangement, which makes quarterback Pittsburgh’s offseason focus again in 2026," Miller wrote. "Sellers is one of the nation’s most exciting prospects, as he threw for 18 touchdowns to seven interceptions last season while rushing for 674 yards and seven scores. The 6-foot-3, 242-pounder is big, strong and mobile and could be picked way before this if he cleans up some decision-making mistakes.”

This projection points directly to where the Steelers’ quarterback plan could be headed, especially if Rodgers indeed walks away after one season. Sellers represents the kind of modern, dual-threat prototype the NFL is shifting toward.

What’s telling is how Miller phrased Sellers’ draft status. He noted that with two years of eligibility remaining, Sellers is no guarantee to declare for the draft in 2026. That kind of uncertainty might worry some teams.

For Pittsburgh, though, it could work in its favor. If Sellers does opt to stay in school one more year, the Steelers may have additional time to groom a transitional quarterback, possibly even giving Will Howard or another current roster option a short-term chance before fully committing to a new face of the franchise.

The broader conversation, though, is about timing. The Steelers’ current roster is built to compete. They’ve got playmakers like DK Metcalf, a solidified offensive line, and a defense that hopefully still features TJ Watt. What they don’t have locked down is a for sure starting quarterback beyond 2025. Rodgers brings credibility and veteran savvy, but he’s 41 and nearing the end of his career. That makes the 2026 draft a crucial pivot point for Pittsburgh.

Even if he doesn’t declare in 2026, the signal is clear: Pittsburgh is scouting quarterbacks who can change the way this offense looks for the next decade. Sellers would bring a different flavor than Rodgers; more athleticism, more creativity, and the ability to extend plays. That mobility also opens up the playbook for Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, who thrives on mixing formations and designing option looks that keep defenses guessing.

In many ways, the ESPN quote was less about filling a spot and more about forecasting the next wave of Steelers football. The timing of the quote, the mention of Rodgers’ short window, and the detailed description of Sellers’ potential all work together to create a powerful message: the Steelers aren’t just preparing for life after Rodgers.

Steelers Are Eyeing The Future With Clear Vision

It’s no accident that ESPN linked Sellers to Pittsburgh. His arm, legs, and leadership are exactly the tools a modern NFL team craves, and the Steelers’ current setup; veteran stopgap, strong supporting cast, draft flexibility, creates a perfect opportunity to pull it off. The next college season will be critical in determining just how high Sellers climbs, but if he polishes the rough edges, it’s easy to imagine him donning the black and gold come April 2026.

Do you think Sellers can be Pittsburgh’s franchise QB? Let us know in the comments below!

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