Steelers Should Focus on Defense Rather Than Quarterback in 2025 Draft

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — The Pittsburgh Steelers are unlikely to find a solution at quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft, according to beat writer Ray Fittipaldo. He suggests the team should prioritize fortifying their defense instead of pursuing a new quarterback, possibly repeating the mistakes made in recent drafts.

Fittipaldo expressed skepticism about the quality of quarterbacks available this year, particularly emphasizing that the team should not overlook the lessons learned from last season, when they selected Kenny Pickett as the first quarterback in the 2022 draft, despite picking 20th overall. “If he’s not a first-round quarterback for 20 other teams, why would the Steelers want to do that?” Fittipaldo asked.

Drawing a comparison to the Denver Broncos, Fittipaldo highlighted their successful defensive strategy. The Broncos drafted linebacker Nik Bonitto in 2022, and added defensive end Zach Allen as a free agent this year. Cornerback Patrick Surtain II, a previous first-round pick, has also contributed to their third-ranked defense in scoring last year. “If you still want to play that conservative, low-scoring style of game, you need a good defense to do that,” he said.

Fittipaldo contends that the Steelers’ current defense is in dire straits. “The state of the Steelers’ defense right now isn’t good,” he expressed, adding that the upcoming draft is an opportune moment for the Steelers to strengthen their defensive lineup, while considering the prospect of a franchise quarterback in the following year.

Despite signing Russell Wilson and trading for Justin Fields, the Steelers seemingly overlooked last year’s promising quarterback class. The NFL Draft dynamics played a role in their strategy, with the team drafting at 20 and watching as the top six quarterbacks were chosen by pick 12.

After Bo Nix was selected 12th overall, no other quarterback was picked until the New Orleans Saints chose Spencer Rattler in the fifth round at pick 150. This year is considered top-heavy in terms of quarterback talent, a factor that left the Steelers without a clear choice.

“This is not the year the Steelers should be looking for their franchise quarterback,” Fittipaldo believes. He points out that only a trade for a standout player like Cam Ward would justify a first-round selection. However, he urges the team to wait until next year’s draft where better options might be available.

As the Steelers assess their trajectory, the consensus remains that bolstering their defense should take precedence in the upcoming draft. The historical challenges associated with drafting quarterbacks in the first round further solidify this perspective.