Steelers Reportedly Weren't Planning to Draft QB Until Buzz Shedeur Sanders May Slide

The Pittsburgh Steelers have emerged as a potential suitor for quarterback Shedeur Sanders if he falls in the 2025 NFL draft, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

"Sources said the Steelers had not been planning to draft a quarterback in Round 1, but they also were not expecting Sanders to fall out of top 10," Schefter reported Monday. "Now, all options seem to be on the table, and they are preparing in case they have the option to draft Sanders."

The Colorado passer could be off the board as early as the No. 3 pick and as late as Pittsburgh's selection at No. 21 "in the eyes of some across the league," per Schefter.

Dianna Russini of The Athletic also reported on the team's draft plans.

"While the Steelers wait on a decision from Aaron Rodgers about his future, they’re not hitting pause on their draft plans," Russini said. "I’m told they’re still expected to take a quarterback this week in Green Bay."

NFL draft analyst Todd McShay also reported that the Steelers and head coach Mike Tomlin both "like" Sanders on The Todd McShay Show (13:00 mark).

That doesn't mean that Pittsburgh is solely focused on the signal-caller, though.

Per Schefter, the Steelers are more likely to trade back in the draft instead of trading up for a quarterback such as Sanders.

The 23-year-old was impressive on the Buffaloes in 2024, completing 74 percent of his throws for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns compared to 10 interceptions. He helped lead Colorado to a 9-4 record.

In the most recent mock draft from Bleacher Report's NFL Scouting Department, Sanders was projected to be selected with the No. 6 overall pick.

The Steelers are still on the hunt for a quarterback and have been reportedly pursuing veteran Aaron Rodgers in free agency, but there's some uncertainty regarding an eventual contract agreement.

If Sanders is available when the Steelers are on the clock, he appears to be an option for the team.

The first round of the 2025 draft begins on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET.