The Pittsburgh Steelers remain shrouded in quarterback mystery. While coach Mike Tomlin envisions Kenny Pickett leading the charge, whispers of competition swirl.
Enter Sam Darnold, a former first-round pick with flashes of brilliance, now residing on the San Francisco 49ers’ depth chart.
Arthur Moats, former Steelers linebacker, ignited the Darnold debate on his show, advocating for the talented young quarterback: “You saw him play well this year…more importantly, he’s very talented…
Do you know how hard it is to beat out a pro on that level?” Moats argues that Darnold, even if not the “franchise guy,” could push Pickett and provide valuable training camp competition.
However, skeptics scoff. Darnold’s inconsistent career paints a different picture. While glimpses of promise exist, leading a team to the “promised land” seems far-fetched.
The playoffs might even be a stretch. As analyst Dale Lolley emphasizes, “Darnold is unlikely to solve any of them other than the one Moats mentioned.”
This predicament underscores the Steelers’ delicate dance. Pickett’s future hangs in the balance. Next season becomes his proving ground. Should he lose the starting job to Darnold, it sends a damning message.
The Steelers’ fifth-year option on Pickett’s contract adds another layer of complexity. A subpar performance could push them towards drafting a new quarterback in 2025.
Ultimately, the Steelers face a crucial decision. Do they gamble on Darnold’s potential, hoping he elevates Pickett’s game?
Or do they trust the young quarterback they drafted, allowing him to sink or swim on his own merits? The answer will shape the Steelers’ offensive future and potentially Pickett’s career trajectory.