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The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2025 NFL Draft with questions surrounding their long-term plans at quarterback. Pittsburgh hosted pre-draft visits with both Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart as part of their evaluation process.
The organization ultimately passed on both prospects, selecting defensive lineman Derrick Harmon with the 21st overall pick while Dart went to the New York Giants at No. 25.
Former Steelers defensive lineman Breiden Fehoko recently shared his perspective on what Pittsburgh should have done with that first-round selection. He believes the team missed an opportunity to address the quarterback position despite their plans to sign Aaron Rodgers.
“I really think the Steelers should’ve took Jaxson Dart at 21 even knowing Aaron was still coming. It would’ve been huge to let him learn under a HOF QB for a year,” Fehoko posted on X.
I really think the Steelers should’ve took Jaxson Dart at 21 even knowing Aaron was still coming. It would’ve been huge to let him learn under a HOF Qb for a year.
— Breiden Fehoko (@BreidenFehoko) November 10, 2025
Harmon has validated that decision through his early-season production. He has emerged as one of the top defensive rookies in the league and has become a consistent presence along the Steelers’ defensive front. His impact has been immediate and measurable in his first professional season.
Pittsburgh addressed the quarterback position later by selecting Will Howard in the sixth round. The team had maintained contact with Rodgers throughout the pre-draft process and eventually reached an agreement to bring him in as their starter.
Selecting a quarterback in the first round may have complicated those negotiations with Rodgers. Adding a high-profile prospect could have created an uncomfortable dynamic with a potential successor already in place before his arrival.
Rodgers has provided valuable mentorship to Howard since joining the organization. That relationship would likely have extended to any quarterback the Steelers drafted, regardless of round. While taking a signal-caller earlier could have addressed both present and future needs, Pittsburgh prioritized Harmon based on his ability to contribute immediately in 2025.
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