Steelers’ Quarterback Future Takes Intriguing Turn in New Projection

November 14, 2026

The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a lot of unknowns following the 2026 NFL season. One of the biggest question marks for the future comes at the quarterback position.

Aaron Rodgers announced before this season that the 2026 campaign would be his last as an NFL quarterback. He sounds ready and prepared to head off into retirement, start a family with his wife, and leave football behind.

Should he follow through on that expectation, the Steelers would need to find a new quarterback.

Currently, Pittsburgh has two young options on its roster. Both Drew Allar and Will Howard are fighting to have a shot at being the long-term option. However, there is a good chance that the Steelers will consider outside options during the 2027 NFL offseason.

Keeping all of that in mind, a new prediction has been made that would bring a massive quarterback steal to Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy looks on during the second half against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Pittsburgh Steelers Land Surprising New Quarterback Prediction

Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski has released a new mock draft. In that mock draft, he has Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr falling to the Steelers with the No. 26 overall pick.

“The Pittsburgh Steelers could realistically decide they prefer Drew Allar’s development and allow the 2026 third-round draft pick to start next season. As of now, Aaron Rodgers’ retirement is the only inevitability regarding the situation,” Sobleski wrote.

“So, the Steelers invest in the quarterback position again to ensure it’s addressed long term. Allar can then compete with Notre Dame’s CJ Carr if the organization likes both that much.”

Carr has put together another strong season with the Fighting Irish this year. He has completed 67.6 percent of his pass attempts for 2,168 yards, 21 touchdowns, and an interception, while also running for 89 yards and three more scores.

Back in the 2025 season with Notre Dame, Carr threw for 2,741 yards, 24 touchdowns, and six interceptions, completing 66.6 percent of his passes. He also ran for 33 yards and scored three more touchdowns on the ground.

If Carr were to fall to the Steelers late in the first round, they shouldn’t think twice about selecting him. Carr has the potential to be a long-term star at the NFL level.

Expect to hear plenty of rumors and a lot of speculation about Pittsburgh’s quarterback plan as the offseason draws closer. Carr is a name worth keeping a close eye on as a potential option for the Steelers in the 2027 NFL Draft.