Steelers reveal glimpse of first-round plans before NFL Draft

Sorry Ty Simpson fans, it doesn’t look like the Pittsburgh Steelers are interested in repeating their Kenny Pickett mistake in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Speaking with Pittsburgh's Action News 4 anchor Andrew Stockey, Steelers owner Art Rooney II admitted that selecting a quarterback in the first round is likely off the table for the team's draft plans.

"I think I can tell you one thing, it's probably not going to be a quarterback," Rooney said via WTAE's Raquel Ciampi. "But, beyond that, it's wide open. Of course, it depends on what happens in front of us. But, you know, I think it'll be exciting to build. Interesting. A lot of interesting players in this draft. And, I think one of the -- not only our first pick, but as you probably know, we have 12 selections in this draft. So we have an opportunity to really add some talent to the roster."

There are really only two quarterbacks generating first-round buzz — Fernando Mendoza of Indiana, who's almost a lock to be selected by the Las Vegas Raiders No. 1 overall, and Simpson, who could slide into the second round.

Following Rooney's comments, fans can hopefully find peace that the Steelers will avoid reaching on a quarterback early, with Will Howard or likely taking the reins in 2026.