The Pittsburgh Steelers have been repeatedly linked to quarterbacks such as Justin Fields, Russell Wilson and Kirk Cousins this offseason. But mock draft experts have also routinely named the Steelers a landing spot for quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL draft such as Washington’s Michael Penix Jr.
On February 27, The Ringer projected the Steelers to select Penix at No. 20 overall in the first round of the 2024 draft.
“The Steelers have publicly stated their support for Kenny Pickett, but there just isn’t much evidence that Pickett is the answer for this team,” The Ringer wrote. “Penix will be a polarizing figure in this draft, and some will view this as a reach, but the former Washington star brings a quick, decisive style and an aggressive mentality to push the ball downfield to create explosive plays—variables that differentiate him from what the team has gotten with Pickett.”
A scouting report from The Ringer’s Danny Kelly hyped Penix for his arm strength and pinpoint accuracy, particularly on deep passes.
“He brings an aggressive, attacking mentality to the position and shows a willingness to throw the ball into tight windows to give his guys a chance to make plays—while he simultaneously does an excellent job of taking care of the football,” wrote Kelly.
Kenny Pickett completed a pair of 70-plus yard touchdowns during 2023. But the Steelers could use more deep completions next season. Pickett has averaged just 6.3 yards per pass in 25 career games.
Only five qualified starters had a lower yards per attempt average than Pickett last year.
Penix posted 8.2 yards per attempt during his college career. He averaged a career-best 8.8 yards per pass on his way to 4,903 passing yards during 2023.
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