In a surprising development, Steelers fans might need to pay closer attention to the upcoming NFL Draft. While much of the focus in Pittsburgh has been on whether Russell Wilson or Justin Fields will be the starter next season, other possibilities shouldn’t be ruled out. The team could still explore options through free agency or the draft.
NFL Network’s Eric Edholm recently published an article that could spark debate in Pittsburgh. While many don’t expect the Steelers to target a quarterback in the first round, they might reconsider if a top prospect falls to them. Edholm examined which teams are most likely to draft son of Hall of Fame cornerback Deion Sanders in 2025.
The son of Hall of Fame cornerback Deion Sanders, he is a quarterback prospect with strong NFL bloodlines—something Mike Tomlin is known to value. On top of that, he possesses an elite skill set, making him a potential franchise quarterback. Though few have linked him to the Steelers, he fits many of the traits the team looks for in a signal-caller.
Steelers could shock the world with QB pick in Round 1
On the surface, it makes sense for the Steelers to have interest in any top quarterback prospect. If they bring back Russell Wilson, they could benefit from having a young understudy behind him, similar to how Justin Fields played that role last season. Developing Shedeur Sanders behind Wilson could be an ideal scenario, especially since Pittsburgh still needs a long-term answer at quarterback.
“But why not the Steelers?” Edholm questioned. “They’re the best wild-card option right now in my mind, even if it would be a stretch to rank them among the favorites here.”
Edholm identified seven teams as potential landing spots for Sanders, but Pittsburgh appeared to be one of the least likely. For the Steelers to have a realistic shot at drafting him, several things would need to fall into place. Unless general manager Omar Khan trades up, they would have to hope Sanders unexpectedly slides in the first round—something most analysts don’t anticipate happening.