The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted rookie quarterback Will Howard in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Many pundits viewed this pick as a steal, and the Steelers shared that sentiment. However, it’s going to be a challenge for Howard to develop into the franchise quarterback in Pittsburgh. The team’s recent history at the position has been rocky, highlighted by their first-round selection of Kenny Pickett in 2022, which quickly failed to meet expectations.
John McGonigal / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected quarterback Kenny Pickett with the 20th pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
For the 2025 season, the Steelers are relying on 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers, who brings a wealth of experience, but is likely considering retirement after the season. Rodgers has teased the possibility of returning for another year in Pittsburgh, but nothing is confirmed. While his presence provides short-term stability, it’s clear that the Steelers are looking beyond 2025 in their quarterback strategy.
The plan seems straightforward: the Steelers are expected to target a quarterback early in the 2026 NFL Draft. Steelers insider Brian Batko recently revealed which young signal-caller has him most intrigued, signaling that the organization is already looking for its next potential franchise quarterback. With Howard developing behind Rodgers, Pittsburgh appears to be setting the stage for a major quarterback decision in the near future.
"Dante Moore has been on my radar since early in the season," Batko said via his chat for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "I actually talked to Derrick Harmon about him a few weeks ago for my Steelers-on-prospects draft series… Moore is young, he meets the kind of size threshold the franchise has traditionally liked in their QBs and he's from Cleveland/Detroit originally, so you know, he's built for AFC North conditions. Consider me highly intrigued."
Dante Moore is the starting quarterback for the Oregon Ducks, and through five games, he has the team sitting at an impressive 5-0. His stats are eye-popping, with 1,210 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and just one interception.
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Quarterback Dante Moore, #5, of the Oregon Ducks passes the ball during the second quarter of the Oregon Ducks Spring Football Game at Autzen Stadium on April 27, 2024 in Eugene, Oregon.
Moore is not just a threat with his arm, he is also dangerous as a runner, but his elite passing ability stands out. He showcased that on the road in one of college football’s toughest environments. On Saturday night, Moore led the Ducks into Death Valley to face a stout Nittany Lions team and remained unflappable, guiding Oregon to a statement-making road victory.
What has really caught the attention of insiders like Batko is not just that performance. Batko is intrigued by Moore’s ability to thrive in cold-weather environments, a trait shaped by his upbringing. He also highlights Moore’s ideal 6’3” frame, his impressive speed, and his strong mentality, all traits that could make him an NFL-ready prospect sooner rather than later.
The sophomore may or may not declare for the NFL Draft after the 2025 college football season, but if he does, he is expected to be among the top quarterback prospects. With the Steelers clearly in the market for a franchise quarterback, it is fair to assume Moore could be on their radar, especially given his combination of size, athleticism, and poise under pressure.
Steelers Will Be Hosting 2026 NFL Draft
The Steelers will be hosting the 2026 NFL Draft for the first time in franchise history next April.
Shauna Clinton / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers fans waving their Terrible Towels at Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland during the Steelers' 24-21 win over the Minnesota Vikings on September 28, 2025.
It will take place in the Steel City of Pittsburgh, giving the team a unique opportunity to select their next potential franchise quarterback in their home city. The Steelers will have the chance to welcome a top quarterback prospect right in the Steel City, a moment straight out of a movie script.
What quarterback do you want to see the Steelers select in the 2026 NFL Draft? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.
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