The Pittsburgh Steelers face a pivotal offseason decision at quarterback. While the potential return of Aaron Rodgers would provide a high-level starter, the organization still needs to plan for the future. The ideal scenario might mirror the Green Bay Packers' model, where a rookie like Jordan Love learned behind a legend before taking the reins.

In that spirit, ESPN's Ben Solak projects the Steelers to target a developmental signal-caller in the upcoming NFL Draft. His latest mock draft has Pittsburgh selecting LSU's Garrett Nussmeier in the third round with the 99th overall pick.

The connection goes beyond simple need. There's a notable coaching pipeline: Nussmeier's father, Doug, was Mike McCarthy's quarterbacks coach in Dallas and has worked within that offensive coaching tree for years. This familiarity could help Garrett transition smoothly into a Steelers system looking for a long-term QB2 with more mobility than current option Will Howard.

Scouting reports highlight Nussmeier's pro-ready polish. Despite not having prototypical size for the rugged AFC North, his 6-foot-2 frame hasn't hindered his ball security—he fumbled just seven times in over 1,800 snaps at LSU. He's praised as a savvy pocket navigator with a "wily arm" capable of making layered throws into intermediate windows.

His final college season, however, was a mixed bag. While he showed flashes of the elite prospect many saw in him, his 2023 stats—1,927 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and five interceptions—reflect the inconsistencies he'll need to iron out at the next level. For the Steelers, he represents a calculated, late-round gamble on high football IQ and development potential, a move that could pay dividends down the line.