Steelers Must “Quit Leaning Into The Mistakes”; Now Must Fix Issues With Trade Up For Michael Penix Jr

The Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback situation has been a topic of concern during the 2023 NFL season. Kenny Pickett, the 20th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, was expected to be the hometown hero and heir apparent to the legendary Ben Roethlisberger. 

However, Pickett's performance, despite being able to win games, has left many questioning whether he can lead the Steelers' offense effectively. Injuries have also been a cause for concern, raising doubts about his long-term viability as the team's starting quarterback.

NFL Draft Analyst Ryan Wilson believes it might be time for the Steelers to consider alternatives to Pickett. He suggests that sticking with Pickett for too long could have costly repercussions, especially given the team's history of stubbornness when it comes to making necessary changes on offense.

"Kenny Pickett hasn't worked out this far, and maybe you say, 'Let's roll with Kenny Pickett one more year.' I get that, but this Steelers offense, especially under Mike Tomlin, has been incredibly stubborn about making changes when things haven't worked out, whether it's Matt Canada, the offensive coordinator, or sticking with Kenny Pickett for too long.”

Wilson points to the Steelers' past willingness to make bold moves in the NFL Draft, such as trading up to select linebacker Devin Bush in 2019. He suggests that it's time for the Steelers to take a similarly proactive approach to address their quarterback woes.

"It just doesn't seem to be working on a number of levels. Get the right offensive coordinator in there to go with your young quarterback. Help them succeed together instead of having them bang their heads against the proverbial wall.”

Wilson believes that the Steelers need to identify the right offensive coordinator to work alongside a young quarterback. He emphasizes the importance of helping them succeed together, rather than allowing them to struggle needlessly.

"I think Michael Penix Jr. is the quickest way to get there. Don't try to lean into your mistakes. Admit them and move on, and this would be a step in the right direction for a Steelers offense that has struggled since Ben Roethlisberger retired," Wilson explains.

Michael Penix Jr., a standout quarterback from the University of Washington, has had an impressive 2023 season, leading his Huskies team to the College Football Playoff and a perfect season. His stats are commendable, with 4,218 passing yards, 33 touchdowns, and just nine interceptions. Mel Kiper, an ESPN analyst, currently ranks Penix Jr. as the fifth-best quarterback in a competitive draft class.

Steelers' Loyalty To Pickett

While the idea of drafting Penix Jr. or another talented quarterback from the 2024 draft class is intriguing, the Steelers have shown loyalty to Pickett. Whether they will consider trading up, or using a current draft pick on a quarterback remains uncertain. However, the 2024 quarterback draft class is considered a strong one, making it a tempting opportunity for the Steelers to secure their future at the position. Competition can often lead to better development, and it might be the change the Steelers need to rejuvenate their offense. Maybe Pickett having someone not named Mason Rudolph or Mitch Trubisky in the quarterback room could help elevate his play.

In a season filled with uncertainty and underwhelming performances, the Steelers face a critical decision about their quarterback situation. Whether they choose to stick with Pickett or explore alternatives like Penix Jr., their decision will shape the future of the franchise and determine their path to offensive success. One undeniable fact that all Steelers fans know is that when it comes to quarterbacks, this draft class is too important to overlook.

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