Steelers Predicted To Select Star SEC Quarterback In 2026

The Steelers face a significant decision this offseason regarding their quarterback situation.

Starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers is having a solid season, but he will be a free agent at the end of the year. He also turned 42 this month, which could likely indicate that he’s ready to retire.

If Rodgers doesn’t return, the Steelers could go after a quarterback in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The Draft Network’s Justin Melo published a mock draft on Sunday, suggesting that the Steelers should select Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the 20th pick.

“Is Ty Simpson going to declare for the draft? It’s not a sure thing at this point. Simpson could make the decision based on how he performs throughout the rest of the College Football Playoff,” Melo wrote. “For now, we’ll slot him with the Pittsburgh Steelers as Aaron Rodgers’ replacement.”

Simpson is currently in his fourth year at Alabama, but this is his first season as the full-time starter.

In 14 games this season, Simpson has passed for 3,500 yards, throwing 28 touchdowns while only giving up five interceptions.

The Steelers could benefit from a rookie quarterback to build around, especially since they’ve opted for veterans in recent seasons.

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