In Athlon’s latest two-round mock, Luke Easterling projects Simpson to Pittsburgh at No. 21. Easterling notes that even with Rodgers possibly returning, the Steelers lack a long-term solution at quarterback and could value Simpson as a developmental option who could learn behind Rodgers for a year.
Simpson’s 2025 season, his first as a starter, included a 64.5% completion rate, 3,567 passing yards, 28 touchdowns and five interceptions over 15 games. He showed moments of potential but was inconsistent down the stretch, and he lacks elite physical tools and extensive starting experience, according to evaluators.
The reasoning for a Simpson selection rests on more than raw tools. Easterling argues that sitting behind Rodgers for a year could help the Steelers maximize Simpson’s strengths—sound mechanics, leadership and decision-making—while providing a longer-term quarterback plan if Rodgers returns or if Howard isn’t the long-term answer.
Concerns persist about Simpson’s pedigree. He started only one college season and struggled in high-profile late-season games, including a 48.7% completion rate in the SEC Championship and limited production against Indiana in the College Football Playoff. Those factors create questions about his readiness to contribute early and the risk of déjà vu for a franchise that drafted Kenny Pickett at No. 20 in 2022.
Beyond the quarterback angle, some mock drafts have the Steelers prioritizing a receiver in the first round. Still, Simpson remains a plausible option at No. 21 for a team that may need a long-term answer at the game’s most important position, especially if Rodgers’ decision timeline extends into June or beyond.
