As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, speculation is swirling around the Pittsburgh Steelers’ potential strategy, and one surprising name continues to surface—Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe. While the Steelers are widely expected to address offensive line concerns or bolster their secondary, rumors suggest they could be eyeing Milroe as a potential first-round selection. But does this move make sense for Pittsburgh?
Assessing the Steelers’ Current Quarterback Situation
The Steelers entered the 2024 season with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields competing for the starting quarterback job. While Wilson’s experience and leadership brought stability to the locker room, his performance has been inconsistent. Fields, acquired from Chicago, offered glimpses of his athletic potential but struggled with consistency in the passing game.
Given the uncertainty surrounding the long-term future at quarterback, Pittsburgh’s front office may be considering adding a young, dynamic signal-caller to groom for the future. This is where Milroe’s name comes into play.
Why Jalen Milroe?
Jalen Milroe showcased his dual-threat ability at Alabama, leading the Crimson Tide to an SEC Championship and a College Football Playoff berth. His elite athleticism, deep-ball accuracy, and ability to extend plays with his legs make him an intriguing prospect. Milroe threw for over 3,000 yards and accounted for 35+ total touchdowns in his final season, demonstrating his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.
However, Milroe’s development as a pocket passer remains a work in progress. His decision-making under duress and consistency in reading complex defenses have been areas of concern for NFL scouts. These factors raise questions about whether he’s ready to take the reins of an NFL offense immediately.
Does Milroe Fit Pittsburgh’s Scheme?
New Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith favors a run-heavy, play-action system that relies on mobility and quick decision-making from the quarterback. Milroe’s skill set seems tailor-made for such a scheme. His ability to excel in RPO (run-pass option) packages and improvise when plays break down aligns well with what Smith could envision for Pittsburgh’s offense.
Additionally, Smith’s system places a strong emphasis on limiting turnovers and controlling the clock—something that Milroe would need to refine at the next level. But with time to develop behind a veteran like Wilson or Fields, Milroe could emerge as a dangerous weapon for the Steelers.
Is a First-Round Pick Too High for Milroe?
While Milroe’s upside is undeniable, many draft analysts project him as a late first-round or early second-round prospect. Using a top pick on a developmental quarterback may not align with the Steelers’ immediate needs, especially with glaring holes along the offensive line. Pittsburgh’s front office could opt to trade down and still secure Milroe while acquiring additional draft capital.
Final Verdict: A Gamble Worth Taking?
The idea of the Steelers drafting Milroe in the first round may seem like a reach on the surface, but Pittsburgh has a history of taking calculated risks when it comes to finding its next franchise quarterback. If the organization believes Milroe’s athleticism and ceiling outweigh his current limitations, it wouldn’t be shocking to see them make a bold move.
Still, given the Steelers’ roster construction and pressing needs, selecting Milroe in the first round remains a high-stakes decision that could define the franchise’s future—for better or worse.
Leave a Reply