The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to search for a new quarterback during the offseason, keeping an eye on prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft. Holding the 21st overall pick in the first round, Pittsburgh hopes to find a promising player who could develop into a future starter, potentially serving as an Aaron Rodgers replacement Steelers need at the position.
Ty Simpson Emerges as a Top Quarterback Candidate
According to Tom Fornelli of CBS Sports, the Steelers might select Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the 21st pick. Fornelli highlighted Simpson’s impressive start in the 2025 college season, calling him the best quarterback in college football during the first half.
For the first half of the 2025 season, Simpson was the best QB in college football. Then things quickly eroded over the second half of the season,
Tom Fornelli, NFL Draft Analyst
Despite a decline later in the season, Fornelli believes Simpson’s underlying talent remains intact. The recent addition of coach Mike McCarthy to the Steelers was seen as a move focused on quarterback development, suggesting that Simpson could be groomed patiently rather than starting immediately.
The talent is still there, and I can’t help but feel like the hiring of Mike McCarthy was done with QB development in mind. Maybe Simpson isn’t drafted to start right away, but the Steelers need a QB, and Simpson is good value here.
Tom Fornelli, NFL Draft Analyst
Simpson’s College Career and Draft Prospects
Simpson spent four seasons at Alabama but only completed one full season as the starting quarterback. His decision to enter the draft followed a campaign in which he passed for 3,567 yards and recorded 28 touchdowns, impressive numbers that place him on the radar of teams like Pittsburgh.
Although many expected Simpson to return for another year of college play, his entry into the draft shows confidence in his readiness to transition to the NFL. The Steelers find themselves in a situation where adding a potential Aaron Rodgers replacement Steelers will depend on strong quarterback development and scouting success.
Implications for the Steelers’ Future
Choosing a quarterback like Ty Simpson reflects the Steelers’ cautious but hopeful approach to strengthening their offense. With Mike McCarthy’s expertise expected to aid any young quarterback’s growth, the Steelers could elect to invest in Simpson as a long-term solution rather than an immediate starter. Their draft strategy will be critical in shaping the team’s prospects as they aim to fill the void at quarterback in the coming seasons.
