For the first time in what feels like forever, the Pittsburgh Steelers are facing serious questions about their quarterback room—and the answers might not come for another year or two.
The Steelers made headlines by adding both Will Howard and Drew Allar to the roster, selecting the two Big Ten standouts in recent drafts. While the initial plan was to lean on a veteran quarterback for the next couple of seasons, concerns are mounting that Aaron Rodgers may not return. If that scenario plays out, at least one of these young guns should get a shot to start some games—but the uncertainty has fans and analysts scratching their heads about the team's long-term vision.
One Steelers insider offered some sharp insight, suggesting that the franchise's recent quarterback struggles likely influenced the decision to double down on young talent.
"Well, it's at least giving them three shots at it, right? I do agree, it's not a traditional plan we've seen play out too often. But I think it's also important to remember the original succession plan was Pickett, and then Wilson to prep the way for a rookie QB, then for Rodgers to do that same thing. Now, Rodgers most likely won't be around if they select a rookie QB next year. I do think it could get a bit crowded and jumbled if three young QBs are competing at the same time. But there's part of me that wants to cover that, because those will be some exciting training camp practices," wrote Christopher Carter of the Post-Gazette.
For years, the Steelers were spoiled by elite quarterback play from Ben Roethlisberger. But since his retirement, the search for a reliable successor has been rocky—to put it kindly. From Kenny Pickett to Russell Wilson, the organization has learned the hard way that there are no guarantees when it comes to drafting quarterbacks. So, by bringing in Allar in the third round, Pittsburgh is playing it safe and stacking the deck, making sure they have options when the dust settles.
Whether this strategy pays off or creates a logjam under center, one thing is certain: Steelers training camp just got a whole lot more interesting.
