The Pittsburgh Steelers have faced a challenging history with their first-round draft picks over the past decade. Among the highlights, T.J. Watt, drafted in 2017, has established himself as the franchise's best pass rusher and a cornerstone of their defense. Ryan Shazier, whose career was tragically cut short by injury after being picked in 2014, showcased elite potential. Najee Harris, taken in 2021, delivered solid performance but didn't secure a second contract. Other notable picks include Terrell Edmunds and Bud Dupree, whose tenures were marked by mixed results. Conversely, selections like Artie Burns and Devin Bush fell short of expectations, with Burns failing to secure a starting role and Bush's career marred by injury. The recent picks of Kenny Pickett and Broderick Jones remain contentious, with Pickett being labeled a reach and Jones still developing.

With the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaching, the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves again contemplating their quarterback strategy. After the not-so-successful start of Kenny Pickett, predictions are circulating that the Steelers may opt for Ole Miss's Jaxson Dart at the 21st pick. Given Dart's promising physical attributes, some analysts suggest he could have a higher ceiling than Pickett, which raises questions about whether the Steelers should bet on another quarterback or address their pressing defensive line needs instead.

Analysts argue that the Steelers' history of drafting quarterbacks in the mid-to-late first round has not yielded the expected returns. Rather than repeating past mistakes, it may be wiser for the team to invest their first-round pick in solving defensive issues, particularly the long-standing concerns at defensive tackle. Additionally, with George Pickens's uncertain future in the franchise beyond 2025, the Steelers could also consider finding a replacement for him, thereby diversifying their draft assets.

The Cleveland Browns made headlines this week by signing veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, a move that not only adds depth to their roster but also intensifies competition among their quarterbacks, particularly Kenny Pickett. This signing indicates a shift in the Browns' strategy, possibly sidelining Kirk Cousins, who has been a topic of speculation for a while. Cousins, currently with the Atlanta Falcons, has expressed a desire for a fresh start, but his hefty contract and the Falcons' reluctance to release him complicate matters. As Cleveland now focuses on building a competitive quarterback room, it raises questions about Cousins’ future in the league.

Flacco's experience offers stability, but the pressure on young quarterbacks like Pickett is palpable, especially with the upcoming NFL Draft highlighting potential early-round prospects. Cousins, previously thought to fit well with Browns' coach Kevin Stefanski, may now find himself without many options. Minnesota, where Cousins previously thrived, and New Orleans could be potential landing spots if the Falcons decide to trade or release him. However, the division rivalry and the uncertainty around starting roles make the landscape challenging for Cousins and his aspirations to regain a starting position.

Joe Flacco's return to the Cleveland Browns is noteworthy, but Kenny Pickett, another quarterback addition this offseason, aims to claim the starting spot. Pickett expressed his determination during a recent interview, emphasizing a competitive spirit for the role. Despite Flacco's successful past with the Browns, particularly in leading them to the playoffs in 2023, Pickett remains focused on establishing himself as the team's leading quarterback.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has shown confidence in Pickett, a former first-round draft pick from the Pittsburgh Steelers. The possibility of adding a rookie quarterback in the upcoming draft, as hinted by the team owner, adds an intriguing layer to the competition for the quarterback position going into 2025.