The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a now-familiar spot: searching for answers at quarterback. Ever since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement, the franchise has been caught in a revolving door under center, trying to find a leader who can return them to their winning ways.
Despite bold moves in 2024 — trading for Justin Fields and signing Super Bowl 48 champion Russell Wilson — the Steelers still couldn’t break their playoff victory drought, which has stretched on since 2017.
With another offseason of opportunity ahead, Pittsburgh has a pivotal decision to make. The team must figure out not only who will be leading the offense but also how to build the right supporting cast around that quarterback. And with the 21st overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Steelers might make a move for the playmaker would could be the key to reigniting their offense.
Pittsburgh Steelers Projected To Draft Emeka Egbuka in 1st Round
In PFSN’s latest 2025 mock draft, analyst Justin Lewis projects that Pittsburgh will select Ohio State star wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, who could provide a much-needed spark in the passing game.
“Emeka Egbuka has the natural play strength, frame, and technical detail to play on the outside at both outside designations,” Lewis wrote. “However, his skill set would be best utilized in the slot, allowing him full freedom to operate as the route-running savant he is.
“Egbuka’s lackluster top-end explosiveness theoretically limits his ceiling, but he’s in a similar mold to Amon-Ra St. Brown, who has rounded into one of the most dangerous pass catchers in the NFL.”
At 6’1” with 24 career touchdowns at Ohio State, Egbuka is a polished, dependable target who thrives on precision and route-running mastery. While he may not possess elite breakaway speed, his consistency, strong hands, and ability to work the middle of the field could make him an immediate asset for whoever becomes Pittsburgh’s next starting QB.
Pittsburgh Must Surround Next Quarterback With Reliable Targets
The Steelers know that no matter who becomes their next quarterback, they’ll need to upgrade the weapons around them. Along with adding help at defensive line and possibly tightening up their running game, landing a receiver like Egbuka could be the missing piece that takes their unreliable offense to the next level.
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Despite flashes of potential from their current receiving corps, it was obvious they lacked a dependable, go-to target who could make critical plays when it mattered most. Too frequently last season, the offense went as George Pickens did. Reinforcing the room with ancillary targets will be critical.
With a playoff win long overdue, adding a polished playmaker like Egbuka could help the Steelers take a major step forward in 2025, especially if they manage to upgrade under center. If Pittsburgh plays its cards right, it might finally have the firepower needed to break the drought and establish itself as a legitimate contender.