The Pittsburgh Steelers could be staring down one of the most pivotal draft decisions they've faced in years. After nearly half a decade of quarterback uncertainty, ESPN’s latest mock draft from Field Yates has the Steelers taking a big swing: selecting Alabama QB Ty Simpson with the 21st overall pick.
That move would send a clear message - Pittsburgh is ready to find its next franchise quarterback.
Simpson’s name has been one of the more polarizing in this year’s draft cycle. At one point during the college season, he was firmly in the top-10 conversation.
But a rocky second half of the year saw his stock slip, raising new questions about his long-term NFL ceiling. Still, there’s no denying the tools.
Turn on the tape, and Simpson’s upside jumps out. He’s got the kind of accuracy that makes offensive coordinators salivate - sharp, efficient, and capable of hitting tight windows at all three levels.
He’s also comfortable improvising when things break down, showing poise and creativity inside the pocket. And while he doesn’t have a cannon, his arm strength is more than enough to push the ball downfield and keep defenses honest.
Statistically, Simpson had a strong season. He led the SEC with 305 completions and finished with 28 touchdown passes against just five interceptions. That’s the kind of production that gets you noticed - especially in a conference known for NFL-caliber defenses.
But the back half of the season told a different story. Over Alabama’s final six games, Simpson threw four picks and saw his completion percentage dip to 62.6%.
That stretch raised concerns about his decision-making when the pressure ramps up - and in the NFL, it’s always ramped up. Some scouts have also flagged his size as a potential issue, noting he doesn’t quite fit the traditional mold of a big-bodied, durable NFL signal-caller.
The inconsistency has sparked debate in league circles, with some observers even drawing early comparisons to Kenny Pickett. That’s a name Steelers fans know well - a former first-round pick who showed flashes but ultimately didn’t lock down the job long-term. It’s a cautionary tale Pittsburgh can’t afford to repeat.
Adding another layer to the situation: reports that the Steelers are still leaving the door open for a reunion with veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers, who would be 43 next season, would bring immediate leadership and stability to the position.
But even if that move materializes, it wouldn’t necessarily rule out drafting a quarterback like Simpson. In fact, it could set up a bridge scenario - letting a young QB develop behind one of the game’s all-time greats.
So here’s where things stand: with the 21st pick, the Steelers could go two very different directions. Do they invest in the future and roll the dice on a high-upside talent like Simpson? Or do they double down on the present, bringing in a veteran to make one last playoff push with the current core?
One thing’s for sure - Pittsburgh is playing it close to the vest. Don’t expect many leaks between now and draft night. But when the clock starts ticking in April, all eyes will be on the Steelers’ war room.