Steelers Select LSU Standout Quarterback in PFN's 2026 Mock Draft

Photo: Scott Clause/USA TODAY Network

There appears to be a growing consensus among draft analysts that the Pittsburgh Steelers are poised to target a quarterback in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. While the upcoming class is projected to feature one of the deepest pools of quarterback talent in recent memory, opinions differ on which signal-caller the Steelers might ultimately select.

In ESPN’s latest mock draft, the Steelers are projected to take South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers with the 16th overall pick. Meanwhile, Pro Football Network’s mock draft links LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier to Pittsburgh with the 19th overall pick.

With Aaron Rodgers committed to the team for only the 2025 season, LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is seen as a strong schematic fit for the Steelers' offensive system, according to Pro Football Network’s Max Dorsey. Much like rookie signal-caller Will Howard, Nussmeier may not boast elite arm strength, but his ability to dissect defenses—both pre- and post-snap—could be a key factor in drawing interest from general manager Omar Khan.

"Out of all the highly touted quarterback prospects in this draft class, Nussmeier is the least physically gifted. That said, he’s a true point guard and dissects defenses both pre- and post-snap at a high level.

While he doesn’t have the biggest arm, Nussmeier can still make all the downfield throws. If they were to select him, he would be the best young quarterback the Steelers have had in years."

Last season with LSU, Garrett Nussmeier set career highs, recording 337 completions for 4,052 passing yards and 29 touchdowns. Despite his impressive production, one area of concern remains: turnovers. Nussmeier threw 12 interceptions in 2025, highlighting a need for continued refinement in decision-making.

With the recent trade of All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Miami Dolphins, the Steelers may also be inclined to prioritize the safety position in the first round of the upcoming draft. This year’s class features high-profile prospects such as Caleb Downs from Ohio State and Michael Taaffe out of Texas. Depending on the performance of the secondary throughout the 2025 season, addressing safety early in the draft could emerge as a legitimate strategy for General Manager Omar Khan and his front office.