Steelers were focused on bigger concern than QB in 2025 NFL Draft

That focus was almost certainly ignited with the way they finished the season, losing five consecutive games after a 10-3 start. It was not just that they lost those games, but also the fact they were mostly dominated by some of the top teams in the league and pushed around. 

That was especially true in their playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens when they allowed 299 rushing yards in a 28-14 defeat. Given that they will have to face Derrick Henry and the Ravens two times, and are still in a highly competitive AFC North, revamping their toughness and physicality makes sense. They now have strong depth along the defensive line (where they already have Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton) and with their EDGE linebackers where Sawyer joins a group that already includes T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig. 

Quarterback is still a concern with a depth chart consisting of Mason Rudolph, Skyler Thompson and now Howard. The fact they did not take one early in the draft continues to point to the possibility of free agent Aaron Rodgers joining them at some point. They also might have their eyes on a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft class (which will be held in Pittsburgh) as an opportunity to find their next long-term answer. Even if they do not finish with a high pick, they could be in a position to gain several compensatory draft picks that could help them possibly move up in that class.