Art Rooney confirms Steelers not drafting quarterback in first round

Oct 17, 2021; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers president Art Rooney II during halftime of the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Philip G. Pavely-Imagn Images The Pittsburgh Steelers currently have two quarterbacks on their roster just one week ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

And while they have continued to be patient as they await a decision from Aaron Rodgers, time is running out on the expected decision ahead of the draft. Even if Rodgers does return to the Steelers, many have speculated that Pittsburgh could target a quarterback in the first round, with Ty Simpson being the most popular named linked to the Steelers in that spot. However, in an interview with Andrew Stockey of WTAE in Pittsburgh, Rooney says the Steelers won’t be taking a quarterback in the first round.

“I think I can tell you one thing, it’s probably not going to be a quarterback,” Rooney said. “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.