Steelers Projected to Find ‘Some Razzle Dazzle’ With ‘Surprise’ QB Addition

After waiting patiently, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected quarterback Kenny Pickett with the 2022 draft’s 20th overall pick. According to Field Yates of ESPN, Bo Nix will experience the same scenario once more in 2024.

On February 14, Yates released his most recent mock draft, in which he projected the Steelers to choose Nix at No. 20 overall.

The Steelers have backed Kenny Pickett, who they selected at No. 20 two years ago, this offseason, so this one might come as a surprise. However, they also stated that they intend to increase Yates’ competitiveness in the quarterback room.

Nix has honed his razzle dazzle throughout his time in college after leaving Auburn, and he combines it with razor-sharp accuracy and rapid field vision to provide the perfect read.

In 2023, Nix broke the FBS record for accuracy during a college season with a completion rate of 77.4%. Moreover, he completed 4,508 yards of passing with 45 touchdowns and 3 interceptions.

How Kenny Pickett and Bo Nix Are Similar
Whether the Steelers should consider selecting another signal caller at No. 20 so early is a matter of debate. Pickett, the final quarterback taken by Pittsburgh at number 20, hasn’t yet shown promise. This offseason, the team is once again shopping for a quarterback.

However, Yates and other draft analysts have high expectations for Nix. At the absolute least, Yates contended, he will offer greater upside than Pickett.

“I think the Steelers’ ceiling with Pickett behind center is too low for a team whose standard is not simply making the playoffs but making deep runs,” Yates wrote. “Quarterback picks in this range are often divisive.” Pittsburgh has now dropped five straight postseason games.Before the 2024 NFL draft, Nix will turn 24, which is the same age as Pickett was when he attended his first NFL training camp.

For a quarterback selected in the first round, that is a bit older. Once more, it’s possible that the Steelers would rather have a quarterback prospect who differs more from Pickett.

However, the Steelers respected Nix’s extensive college experience two years ago. Nix spent five years in college, attending two distinct universities.