Jason Burgos
A new NFL Draft rumor seemingly opens the door for the Pittsburgh Steelers to land their quarterback of the future in Round 2 of next month’s NFL Draft.
After winning 10 games for a third straight season and reaching the playoffs, the Steelers won’t be on the clock until the 21st pick in Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft. In a perfect world, they would use their pick on one of the best QBs in this year’s class. But this year offers a weaker QB class than the last couple of drafts.
It’s why the team has been linked to improving their offensive line and receiver corps to set the offense up for a rookie signal caller in 2027. Players like Penn State’s Olaivavega Ioane, Alabama’s Kaydn Proctor, and Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson should all be in play at 21 and are sensible options. Yet, that doesn’t mean the team can’t hope the second-best QB in this year’s class, Ty Simpson, isn’t available in Round 2.
There has been a great deal of debate about where the Crimson Tide QB will land in this month’s event. Many projections view the Cleveland Browns at 24 (Round 1) and 39 (Round 2), or the New York Jets at 33 (The first pick in Round 2) as logical points where Simpson could be selected. Well, those may no longer be likely spots.
Door opening for Pittsburgh Steelers to get Ty Simpson at pick 53?
According to veteran NFL Draft expert Todd McShay, “Love Ty Simpson, don’t think he’s going to either of those places with their second pick” in Round 1. Furthermore, he suggests that both franchises are serious about building their teams out in anticipation of getting a QB prospect next year.
The Browns have three QB options this season, including Deshaun Watson. While New York traded for Geno Smith, coach Aaron Glenn is very high on his ability to have a big season in 2026.
If neither team is serious about getting Simpson, the only other threat to take him before the Steelers could be the Arizona Cardinals at 34th overall. They are certainly a possibility after cutting Kyler Murray this offseason. If they don’t take him, Simpson could fall into the Steelers’ lap at pick 53.
Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza is projected to go No. 1 overall this month. However, there are quite a few football analysts who feel Simpson is just as good, if not better. But a rough last few weeks of the season hurt his standing among draft evaluators.
