NFL Writer Predicts Steelers Bypass First-Round QB For Defender

Much of the conversation surrounding the Steelers this offseason has been rooted in the quarterback situation.

The Athletic’s Ben Standig, however, believes Pittsburgh won’t address the signal-caller position with its first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Standig published a mock draft Monday which has the Steelers selecting defensive tackle Kenneth Grant 21st overall.

“There’s ample speculation about the Steelers drafting the third quarterback, presumably (Jaxson) Dart,” Standig wrote. “Waiting for (Aaron) Rodgers suggests heightened urgency. Therefore, Pittsburgh targets a possible Week 1 interior starting lineman on either side of the ball.”

Pittsburgh reportedly held a six-hour meeting with Rodgers over the weekend, and it has some believing it’s a “safe bet” the four-time NFL MVP lands in the Steel City. That would lessen the short-term need behind center and allow the Steelers to target another position in the first round.

If Rodgers doesn’t sign in Pittsburgh, however, mock drafts could look a bit different leading up to April’s event.