In a recent NBC Sports program, NFL experts Mike Florio and Chris Simms discussed the Pittsburgh Steelers’ apparent shift in focus toward Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, as well as why a team that was previously uninterested is now exploring the possibility.
Steelers Shift Gears on Shedeur Sanders as Draft Stock Realigns
Initially, the Steelers appeared to have passed on Sanders. Head coach Mike Tomlin and General Manager Omar Khan did not attend Colorado’s pro day and chose not to meet with Sanders at the NFL Combine.
Given Pittsburgh’s history of straightforwardness in the pre-draft process, many perceived this as a strong indication of disinterest.
But that perception is changing—and quickly.
Chris Simms quickly drew parallels between Sanders and former Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett, claiming Sanders’ arm talent and natural ability are more evident on tape.
Simms did not mince words when he compared the two quarterbacks.
“I would take Shedeur Sanders over Kenny Pickett any day of the week and twice on Sunday,” Simms declared. “I didn’t love Kenny Pickett when he came out. I thought he was a second or third-round quarterback.”
Sanders may not possess a single “elite” characteristic, but Simms applauded his arm strength, poise, and leadership. He disputed the claim that Sanders lacked NFL-caliber arm talent, citing specific throws from game footage that demonstrated his zip and accuracy.
“His arm is better than advertised,” Simms emphasized. “He can put miles per hour on the football… I don’t worry about him making any throws.”
Florio explained why the Steelers are possibly rethinking Sanders now.
“They didn’t meet with him at the Combine because, at that point, it looked like he was going top five,” Florio said. “But things are shifting. Teams are getting deeper into film and adjusting their draft boards.”
The Steelers can now assume Sanders will fall to pick 21, making him an appealing prospect. As more teams evaluate their quarterback needs and rankings, the Steelers could find value in a potential franchise quarterback falling into their lap.
With the NFL draft quickly approaching, the Steelers’ quarterback strategy is still unclear. But one thing is certain: Sanders, who was once thought to be out of reach or not a good fit for Pittsburgh, is back on their radar.
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Whether the Steelers make a move on Sanders or not, the late buzz about him speaks volumes—and it is turning heads around the league.
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