The Pittsburgh Steelers and Aaron Rodgers saga continues to dominate headlines as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches. With the team still searching for a long-term solution at quarterback, all eyes remain on Rodgers, the 20-year veteran who’s yet to decide about his future.
While recent reports suggest positive movement, the Steelers can’t afford to put all their eggs in one basket. Regardless of whether they land Rodgers, Pittsburgh needs a backup plan — and fast. In the latest mock draft from PFSN, the Steelers are projected to use the 21st overall pick on a rising quarterback prospect.
Steelers Predicted to Select Jaxson Dart in 2025 NFL Draft
The Steelers have been searching for their next franchise quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement following the 2021 season. Multiple attempts — including Kenny Pickett and a carousel of backups — haven’t panned out.
Rodgers has been linked to Pittsburgh for much of the offseason and even reportedly visited the team facility. But with no deal in place, the Steelers are wisely keeping their options open. There have also been trade rumors involving the Falcons’ backup, Kirk Cousins. But as PFSN’s Justin Lewis notes, none of the veteran options solve the long-term problem.
“At the moment, the Pittsburgh Steelers are playing the waiting game with free agent Aaron Rodgers. Perhaps Pittsburgh decides to trade for Falcons backup QB Kirk Cousins. No matter what happens with Rodgers or Cousins, drafting Dart here makes sense,” Lewis wrote.
“Having Dart sit behind Cousins or Rodgers for a year would allow him to ease into the job. And if the Steelers strike out on both veterans, Dart is not afraid to step in right away.”
Dart led one of the most explosive offenses in college football with the Ole Miss Rebels. In his final season, he threw for 4,279 yards, rushed for 495 more, and accounted for 32 total touchdowns. He also improved his completion percentage to 69.3%, more than four points from the previous year. He excelled at deep throws but was just as sharp on short and intermediate passes.
With wideouts like DK Metcalf and George Pickens — proven 1,000-yard receivers — Dart would have the supporting cast to thrive in Pittsburgh. The Steelers’ offensive structure and weapons make for one of the most appealing landing spots for a rookie QB in 2025.
If Rodgers and Cousins sign elsewhere, Dart could find himself not just on the Steelers’ radar — but at the top of it. Given his dual-threat ability and poise, he may be ready to win games sooner than expected.