Steelers’ Former WR Plaxico Burress Absolutely Believes Sam Darnold Is The Answer For Pittsburgh: 'Give Him The Opportunity'

As the Pittsburgh Steelers enter a crucial offseason, the focus inevitably turns to the quarterback position. Since Ben Roethlisberger's retirement, the organization has struggled in finding his successor. 

Amidst the uncertainty, there's a glimmer of hope in Kenny Pickett, the quarterback out of Pitt whom the Steelers have expressed faith in. Pickett's impressive collegiate career, highlighted by his standout performances and remarkable growth, has positioned him as a potential solution to the Steelers' quarterback conundrum.

However, amidst the organization's optimism surrounding Pickett, rumors persist about the Steelers exploring other options. Speculation is rife about whether the team will opt to bring in a veteran quarterback or, perhaps, even draft a quarterback. Amidst these swirling rumors, one intriguing possibility arises: the potential utilization of a former third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. 

While not initially envisioned as a flashy name quarterback, Sam Darnold's prior experience in the league could offer a unique solution for the Steelers. Whether as a starting quarterback or in a backup role, the prospect of incorporating this former top pick into the Steelers' lineup adds another layer of intrigue to an already compelling offseason narrative.

Steelers' Former WR Plaxico Burress Has A Ton Of Faith In Sam Darnold

Former NFL wide receiver TJ Houshmandzadeh and ex-Steelers wide receiver Plaxico Burress discussed the rumors surrounding Russell Wilson's potential move to the Steelers as their next quarterback during the latest episode of Up On Game aired on Fox Sports Radio on Monday. Amidst the speculation, Burress proposed an audacious idea that involved the idea of the Steelers going after Darnold.

"You know what makes the most sense for me? When I say this to people, they kind of look at me and they like 'Well, he's not the most desirable guy, but he fits.' And it's Sam Darnold. I think he fits what Pittsburgh wants to do right now. Listen, he's not young Ben Roethlisberger. He's not a bad quarterback."

While Burress was quick to admit that Darnold isn’t going to be a legend, he still believes he’s a solid quarterback and one the Steelers should invest in. 

“If you give him the opportunity, he fits what Pittsburgh wants to do. They are going to run the football. You are going to get the ball to 14. You going to get the ball to Diontae Johnson and Freiermuth and sit behind this run game and just deliver the football. That’s all they want to do and I think he can manage these football games enough to the point where they can be competitive in the AFC North.”

Burress expressed his belief that the Steelers should consider bringing in Darnold as not just a backup, but as their starter. Burress is highly optimistic about Darnold's potential to lead the team and make them a contender in the uber-talented AFC North division. With his experience playing in the league and observing plenty of quarterbacks, Burress has high hopes for Darnold's future if it travels to Pittsburgh.

Darnold's NFL journey has been defined by encounters with adversity and navigating through challenges. Initially launching his career with the New York Jets, he grappled with struggles before eventually being moved to the Carolina Panthers. Now, as a part of the San Francisco 49ers, the recent Super Bowl runner ups, Darnold has embarked on a new chapter in his football odyssey.

In his six seasons in the NFL, Darnold has completed 57.7% of his passes, amassing 12,064 passing yards, along with 63 touchdowns and 56 interceptions. Despite any confidence Burress may have in Darnold's abilities, the statistics paint a different picture. 

Darnold's high interception count suggests he may not be the optimal choice for the Steelers' starting quarterback position. However, considering his potential and affordability, Darnold could serve as a viable backup option if Mason Rudolph chose to leave in free agency. Alternatively, the Steelers could pursue a quarterback with a more established track record, such as Ryan Tannehill. Tannehill's proven experience as a starter and connection with Arthur Smith could provide valuable competition and depth, potentially elevating the overall performance of Pickett.