Opinion: The Steelers Should Avoid QBs from the 2022 Draft Class

In light of reports suggesting that Sam Howell may be available for trade, it is worth revisiting the quarterback class from which he emerged—one that is arguably the worst in the past decade.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have already experienced the shortcomings of the 2022 quarterback class, quickly realizing that Kenny Pickett was not the right choice to lead their team. As a result, the franchise finds itself in quarterback purgatory. However, if they are searching for an answer, it is unlikely to come from that draft class.

Setting aside both Howell and Pickett, an evaluation of the remaining quarterbacks and their current situations only reinforces the argument that the 2022 class deserves the title of the worst QB class in NFL history.

• Desmond Ridder (3rd round, 74th pick) - Free agent

• Malik Willis (3rd round, 86th pick) - Backup with Green Bay Packers

• Matt Corral (3rd round, 94th pick) - Birmingham Stallions of the UFL

• Chris Oladokun (7th round, 241st pick) - Backup with Kansas City

• Bailey Zappe (4th round, 137th pick) - Backup with Kansas City

• Skylar Thompson (7th round, 247th pick) - Backup with Steelers

The only reason the 2022 quarterback class may not earn the title of the worst in NFL history is the unexpected success of Brock Purdy—a player largely overlooked by everyone except the 49ers, who selected him with the 262nd pick. Ironically, he has become the most "relevant" quarterback from that draft class.

For the Steelers, their best course of action is to continue with their current roster while adding a quarterback from this year's draft, potentially alongside a veteran—assuming a certain player makes a decision on his future. Next year's draft class is expected to offer more desirable options at the position, even if Texas' Arch Manning and the recently transferred Nico Iamaleava choose not to declare for 2026.

Regardless, Omar Khan must avoid desperation and refrain from selecting a quarterback from the 2022 class. As appealing as Howell may seem, trading for him could set the franchise back and prolong their stay in quarterback purgatory longer than necessary.