The Pittsburgh Steelers have been the subject of much speculation as the NFL Draft approaches, with many expecting them to target a quarterback in the first round.
However, recent reports suggest the team might take a different path. According to Steelers insider Gerry Dulac from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the organization could prioritize bolstering its defense over addressing its quarterback concerns.
In a mock draft shared by the Los Angeles Times, Dulac predicts that the Steelers will use their 21st overall pick to select defensive tackle Walter Nolen instead of a signal-caller.
Nolen, a standout from Ole Miss, has proven himself to be a disruptive force on the field. His impressive college resume includes a stellar 91.6 run defense grade and a strong 75.0 pass-rush score, as rated by Pro Football Focus.
He also notched 6.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss during his 2024 season, earning him consensus All-American honors.
While this move would certainly strengthen Pittsburgh’s defensive front, it leaves the team’s quarterback situation unresolved.
Currently, the Steelers have Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson on the roster. General manager Omar Khan has expressed a desire to bring four quarterbacks to training camp, hinting that the team isn’t finished exploring options under center.
One reported possibility includes veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who has allegedly been offered a one-year deal by the Steelers.
However, at 41 years old, Rodgers doesn’t represent a long-term solution, and there appears to be little momentum toward a deal at this time.
The need for a future franchise quarterback remains pressing, especially as the team lacks a second-round pick to pursue one later in the draft.
The Steelers have shown interest in three promising college quarterbacks: Shedeur Sanders from Colorado, Jaxson Dart (Nolen’s teammate at Ole Miss), and Alabama’s Jalen Milroe.
All three are considered strong candidates for first-round selections, but the Steelers’ apparent shift in focus toward defense suggests they may let these options pass them by—at least for now.
As draft night draws near, Pittsburgh’s strategy is still unfolding. While reinforcing their defense with a top-tier lineman like Nolen would pay dividends, the question remains: will the Steelers risk missing out on a quarterback to do it?