The Pittsburgh Steelers are now in a weirder spot than anyone had predicted, mainly due to Mike Tomlin and the quarterback position.
For a franchise built on continuity, the position has remained unsettled far longer than expected, and the head coaching situation only adds to that confusion.
While the Steelers have managed to stay competitive, they also haven’t had any playoff success, and perhaps all of these changes will be a good thing.
In order for that to happen, the Steelers need a quarterback.
ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. believes Ty Simpson could fit well with what the Steelers typically look for at the position, particularly later in the first round.
“He's 23-years of age. His father's a coach. Nick Saban's there with him, advising him. He had heard first round,” said Kiper. “You think about Ty Simpson, he could have been top five if he would have continued through. Offensive line let him down. Brian Williams didn't have the year he expected. He had no running game! Ty Simpson obviously goes to a team that can they screw it up, can they affect... hey, let him sit a little bit. He's only got 15 starts. But again, put a little weight on that frame. This kid's so competitive he won't let a play die. He fights to the bitter end a little too much. He'll figure that out. Ty Simpson, like I said at this point it's 16. We were talking top five back in October. I think it would make sense for the New York Jets or the Steelers, or the Rams, late first round."
It’s important to remember here that the New York Jets could take Simpson before the Steelers. The Los Angeles Rams also have an earlier pick due to owning the Atlanta Falcons first rounder.
Unlike teams constantly cycling through coaches and coordinators, Pittsburgh used to offer consistency, but that’s changed. That matters for a quarterback who needs time to get better.
A late first-round quarterback with upside would be a good idea at this stage, but it’s still possible that the Steelers will look to go with a more proven option, depending on how things unfold over the next few months.