Pittsburgh Steelers Eyeing Jalen Milroe as Potential Quarterback of the Future
The Pittsburgh Steelers are in the market for a quarterback, but whether they’ll use their 21st overall pick to secure one remains uncertain. While many mock drafts suggest the Steelers may wait until later rounds, there’s a possibility that Alabama’s Jalen Milroe could be the unexpected pick at No. 21, especially given the team’s interest and Milroe’s recent invite to the NFL Draft.
Milroe, a two-time captain at Alabama, was invited to attend the NFL Draft in person—a somewhat rare honor, given the league’s tradition of limiting the invite list to only a handful of prospects. This move could indicate that NFL teams, including the Steelers, may be higher on Milroe than many mock drafts suggest. Typically projected as a second- or third-round pick, Milroe’s inclusion in the exclusive group of invitees suggests a rising draft stock, potentially putting him in the conversation for the first round.
The Steelers, in particular, have shown significant interest in Milroe. Head coach Mike Tomlin, general manager Omar Khan, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, and quarterbacks coach Tom Arth all attended Alabama’s pro day, where Milroe impressed the scouts with his athleticism and leadership. Additionally, Milroe met with the Steelers the day before the pro day, sharing a dinner with multiple prospects. The connection appears strong, and Milroe has made it clear that he would seize the opportunity to play for the Steelers if the chance arose.
“I just loved having that opportunity to meet with the Steelers,” Milroe said after the pro day. “I just remember watching the AFC North and the battles they have. So, having the opportunity to be around Coach Tomlin, I don’t take lightly at all.”
Milroe’s leadership and intangibles are widely recognized, making him an intriguing candidate for any NFL team. As a two-time captain, he’s shown poise, humility, and a strong work ethic, qualities that will undoubtedly shine in interviews. However, the question surrounding Milroe is his on-field performance. While he has flashed potential, he has struggled with consistency, particularly in his passing accuracy and decision-making. His challenges were evident during his time at Alabama and were further highlighted during his Senior Bowl practices.
Despite these concerns, Milroe’s upside is undeniable. With a strong arm, athleticism, and an ability to make plays outside the pocket, he possesses the traits that many teams are looking for in a modern NFL quarterback. If the Steelers believe they can develop his skills and refine his mechanics, Milroe could become the franchise quarterback they’ve been searching for. If he slips into the first round, Pittsburgh may be ready to take the plunge and make him their next QB of the future.