The Pittsburgh Steelers have been heavily linked with Justin Fields and Russell Wilson as they look for solutions for their QB situation. Nonetheless, what if they take a high-ceiling rookie in the 2024 NFL Draft instead and build around him?
Michael Penix Jr. is predicted to be picked in the middle of the first round into the second round. With the Steelers selecting 20th overall, they could have a chance to land the Washington Huskies star.
Michael Penix Jr. To Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers have been actually named as the best landing spot for Penix in the NFL Draft, according to Jordan Dajani of CBS Sports.
Dajani argued that considering the weapons that the Steelers have on the ground in running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, Penix’s arm strength and deep-ball accuracy could complement the team well.
Not to mention that Penix has an aggressive playing style and is capable of running the ball from time to time to bring some gains. With the team the Steelers already have, the Huskies standout could definitely thrive under Mike Tomlin’s system.
Here’s what Dajani wrote about Penix potentially going to the Steelers:
“The Steelers are probably the biggest question mark when it comes to teams that may or may not be involved in the quarterback mix. They could run it back with Kenny Pickett, add a veteran like Ryan Tannehill or they could draft someone. What I like about the Steelers’ situation is that they will finally have a new offense. Arthur Smith was probably not a celebrated hire, but understand that he knows how to build a run game.
“Despite the overall subpar run with the Atlanta Falcons, Smith had a top-10 rushing offense last year. During his time as the offensive coordinator with the Tennessee Titans, his rushing offense finished top three for two consecutive years while Derrick Henry turned in his two best NFL campaigns. With Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, the Steelers can be effective on the ground. And that’s a great thing to have with a young quarterback. It should complement the bazooka Penix walks around with nicely.”
It’s unknown if the Steelers actually have an interest in Penix, but should he still be available by the time Pittsburgh picks, taking him is definitely something they can consider.
Besides, if the Steelers want to bring in competition for Kenny Pickett, a young quarterback with so much to prove might seem to be a better option compared to a veteran who would want the starting job and might be dissatisfied if he doesn’t get it immediately.
Pittsburgh Steelers’ QB Options
As mentioned, the Pittsburgh Steelers have yet to decide on what they will do with their quarterback. Dajani noted it as well, emphasizing they can run it back with Kenny Pickett and have someone like Ryan Tannehill back him up.
Russell Wilson and Justin Fields are both intriguing options as well. Instead of drafting a QB, the Steelers could go for a veteran QB with experience in the pros so they don’t have to deal with the growing pains of a rookie.
Depending on who the Steelers pick as their QB, it will signify the approach they will take in the upcoming season.
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