Steelers Select Dart With The 21st Overall Pick In Jeremiah's Mock Draft 3.0

Lately, there has been a growing trend among NFL analysts and their mock drafts regarding the Steelers' first-round pick, with many speculating that it will be a quarterback.

For much of the offseason, the Steelers have prioritized upgrading the interior of their defensive line. However, the team is currently facing a quarterback conundrum that remains unresolved after missing out on Justin Fields and Sam Darnold during the first week of free agency. Although they brought Mason Rudolph back on a two-year contract last week, they still lack definitive answers regarding their starting quarterback for this season, including the possibility of Aaron Rodgers.

Enter Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart. In the most recent college football season, Dart ranked third nationally in passing yards, amassing an impressive 4,279. He also achieved career highs in completions (276), completion percentage (69.3%), and touchdowns (29). Given the Steelers' current situation, many have identified Dart as a potential answer to their search for a franchise quarterback—a view echoed by renowned NFL Draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah, who projects the Steelers selecting Dart with the 21st overall pick in his latest mock draft.

"The Steelers’ plan at quarterback is not completely clear at the moment. Even if they were to land 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers, they would still need a long-term option at the position, so they take another swing here with Dart."

As it stands, the team has already met with Dart formally during this year's NFL Combine and will be traveling to see him perform at Ole Miss Pro Day on March 28th. Notably, the Steelers have only invited one quarterback for a top-30 visit during this process: Tyler Shough from Louisville.

In addition to Dart, Colorado's Shedeur Sanders has also been projected to the Steelers with the 21st overall pick. Despite their current circumstances, there has been little indication of the team's intention to select a quarterback in the first round.