Steelers Select Arizona State QB In Latest CBS Sports Early Mock Draft

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The 2025 NFL Draft concluded less than a month ago, and many analysts are already speculating about what the 2026 season may hold for various teams.

For the Pittsburgh Steelers, the lack of stability at the quarterback position remains an evident concern. Currently, their quarterback roster includes Skyler Thompson, Mason Rudolph, and this year's 185th overall draft pick, Will Howard, from Ohio State. As the team awaits the decision of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, it remains uncertain who will assume the role of their No. 1 quarterback heading into the upcoming season.

With uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position this year, many analysts believe that the Pittsburgh Steelers may find their potential franchise quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft. CBS Sports NFL analyst Chris Trapasso is among those who have weighed in, releasing his "never-too-early" 2026 mock draft, which projects the Steelers selecting Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt with the 16th overall pick.

This projected draft position suggests the Steelers may experience a downturn in performance during the upcoming season, positioning them to select a quarterback within the top 20. It also implies that they may not be in a favorable position to acquire South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, whom many regard as the top quarterback prospect in the 2026 draft class.

In his analysis, Trapasso highlighted Leavitt’s mobility and well-rounded skill set as key reasons why he would be an ideal fit for the team.

" Leavitt looked the part of the modern-day mobility-based quarterback in his breakout 2024 with the Sun Devils. A former four-star recruit and the No. 18 quarterback in the 2023 quarterback class, Leavitt has first-round skills, and the Steelers need a long-term answer at the quarterback position in the worst way."

Last season, Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt played a pivotal role in leading the Sun Devils to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals against the Texas Longhorns. In the process, he achieved career highs in completions (350), passing yards (2,885), and touchdowns (24), solidifying his reputation as a promising prospect.

Given the depth of talent expected in next year's draft class, Steelers scouts will likely be highly active this fall as they evaluate potential candidates to strengthen the team's quarterback position.