General Manager Omar Khan employed a distinctive approach during free agency when the new league year started in March, and many think it was intentional. The Steelers are projected to possess multiple compensatory picks in 2026, which might be utilized as part of a deal to move up for a quarterback. This is based on the assumption that the team will again finish at .500 or above, resulting in possessing a first-round pick in the latter part of the draft.
It is expected that the 2026 class will feature numerous quarterbacks with first-round ratings, providing teams with various choices. The pre-draft phase will be challenging, and Steelers journalist Ray Fittipaldo pointed out in a recent article that there are no certainties for a team such as Pittsburgh a year from now. It’s going to be a major contest for high-caliber talent.
“Regrettably for the Steelers, they won’t be the sole team seeking their next franchise quarterback,” Fittipaldo stated concerning the 2026 NFL Draft. “Eight teams — and possibly additional ones — might be looking for a quarterback next spring.”
Players such as Arch Manning, Nico Iamaleava, and Drew Allar are already being noticed by NFL teams, but numerous other candidates will aim to demonstrate their value as first-round picks. Khan and his team will face significant challenges, and the scouting process has probably started already due to the critical nature of the position at the professional level.
Fittipaldo noted that as many as eight teams might consider selecting a first-round quarterback in 2026, and he elaborated on which teams could pose challenges for the Steelers.
Fittipaldo mentioned, “The Saints, who selected Archie Manning as the first overall pick in the 1971 draft, require a succession plan for Derek Carr.” “The Raiders acquired and signed Geno Smith this spring, but he will be turning 35 during the season.” The Browns are always looking for their next quarterback, and the Dolphins, Jets, Colts, Rams, and Seahawks shouldn’t be excluded, either.
The Los Angeles Rams make a mark after obtaining a second first-round pick for 2026 through a trade on draft day with the Atlanta Falcons. The New Orleans Saints picked Tyler Shough in the second round, potentially eliminating them in 2026, yet that is difficult to foresee. In summary, it seems that the 2026 NFL Draft will feature significantly more teams seeking quarterbacks compared to 2025.
The Steelers will surely be competitive, regardless of whether Howard is on the roster. The only situation in which Pittsburgh isn’t looking for a quarterback is if, for some reason, Howard plays multiple games in 2025 and has a remarkable rookie season. The greater the competition for selecting a quarterback in 2026 will negatively impact the Steelers.
Steelers Must Stop Taking Chances with the Quarterback Spot
Pittsburgh requires a strong quarterback who is the clear first-choice. Entering the final offseasons with numerous uncertainties has been less than ideal and hampers the preparation efforts for the team’s reliable offensive players. Selecting Howard at least provides the franchise with a quarterback on a four-year contract, but the 2026 NFL Draft may be when the team discovers its future. Regrettably, it appears there will be a lot of rivalry.
