In a bold mock draft maneuver, ESPN's Bill Barnwell proposes a high-risk, high-reward trade for the Pittsburgh Steelers, sending their No. 21 overall pick and a conditional 2027 pick to the Indianapolis Colts for quarterback Anthony Richardson and the No. 45 pick. This unconventional approach has stirred debate among fans and analysts alike.

The potential fit for Richardson in Pittsburgh’s offense is intriguing. His explosive arm strength combined with talented receivers like DK Metcalf and George Pickens could create a dynamic aerial attack. With the prospect of Aaron Rodgers potentially coming on board, Richardson could spend a redshirt year, learning and developing before becoming the starter in 2026. However, there are doubts about his current readiness and whether head coach Mike Tomlin can extract the best from him as he did with Ben Roethlisberger.