The Pittsburgh Steelers have already totally rebuilt their quarterback depth chart this offseason via free agency (Russell Wilson) and trade (Justin Fields). Could they perhaps acquire a draft pick to round up the offseason trifecta? The Steelers have planned a pre-draft visit with University of Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
During the 2023 season, it became clear that the Steelers needed to take action to address their quarterback problem, as former first-round choice Kenny Pickett struggled to make developmental progress. Wilson and Fields are respectable, low-cost gambles that provide short-term gains, albeit minor ones.
However, the Steelers must still consider a long-term solution. Until they find that long-term alternative, they will remain locked in quarterback purgatory, limiting their chances of winning a title.
Given the depth of this year’s quarterback class, as well as the predicted weakness of next year’s, it stands to reason that the Steelers would want to conduct due diligence on the signal-callers in this year’s class.
Penix Jr. is an intriguing prospect because, while he is not considered one of the top four prospects at his position (Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels, and J.J. McCarthy), he has the potential to rise quickly. According to Senior Bowl executive director Jim Nagy, the player had an amazing 40-time during his pro day, clocking in between 4.51 and 4.57 seconds, depending on the stopwatch used.
Taking Penix Jr. in the first round (No. 20 overall) would likely be a significant gamble for the Steelers, at least in terms of competing this season.
The Steelers won ten games last season, advanced to the playoffs, and are returning a top-10 defense that improved this offseason with the acquisitions of Patrick Queen, Donte Jackson, and DeShon Elliott. With the acquisitions of Wilson and Fields at quarterback, the team is certainly looking to return to the postseason this season, and possibly win a playoff game for the first time since the 2016 season.
Pittsburgh still has some significant roster needs that may be addressed with that first-round pick, including the need for a center and offensive line help. They could address either position at No. 20 overall.
What if Penix Jr. begins to slip down the boards? What if he approaches or enters the second round? That might be a circumstance and an opportunity that the Steelers can’t pass up.
