Recent news surrounding the Steelers indicates a potential quarterback selection connected to the Mike McCarthy coaching tree, which may signal the end of the team’s reliance on veteran players, and according to ESPN’s Marc Spears, they need to break their cycle of constantly shifting veteran starters. Spears argues that while the franchise is too proud to endure a losing season, depending on “makeshift” options has kept them stuck in a cycle of being competitive enough for the playoffs but not close to a Super Bowl run. He advocates for the front office to draft Ty Simpson to establish a long-term foundation for the team.
However, not all insiders agree on selecting a first-round quarterback. Peter Schrager predicts that Aaron Rodgers will return to Pittsburgh for another season, which leads him to pass on Simpson in his latest mock draft. Instead, Schrager projects that the Steelers will use their 21st pick on Clemson edge rusher TJ Parker to continue building a younger defensive front.
One intriguing developmental option, as highlighted again by ESPN, is LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, who could be available in the third round. This connection is particularly relevant, as Nussmeier’s father, Doug, was the quarterbacks coach for Mike McCarthy in Dallas and remains a part of that coaching tree.
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At 6-foot-2, Nussmeier is considered a pro-ready passer with excellent ball security and pocket navigation skills. Although a core injury affected his velocity and statistics in 2025, his 2024 film showcases Day 2 talent capable of delivering precise intermediate throws.
Nussmeier’s aggressive playing style is both an asset and a liability, as he converted 47.4 percent of third-down attempts in 2024 but often takes unnecessary risks on early downs.
They suggest that sitting behind a veteran like Rodgers would be the ideal way for him to develop, and this arrangement would allow Nussmeier to learn elite risk management and pre-snap processing while fully recovering from his core injury, alleviating the pressure of immediate production.
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