Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has made headlines once again after firmly rejecting the idea of “tanking” for a higher draft pick despite the team’s recent playoff struggles. Tomlin’s stance comes as the Steelers prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft following a disappointing Wild Card round exit, their sixth consecutive postseason defeat.
The Steelers currently hold the 21st pick in the upcoming draft, a position that leaves them outside the range for many top quarterback prospects. However, Tomlin remains steadfast in his belief that the team can still find talent and build a competitive roster without compromising their integrity or competitive spirit.
“We’re not in the business of losing on purpose. There’s a lot of work to be done, and we plan to address our roster needs the right way,” Tomlin stated during a press conference earlier this week.
This commitment to winning comes despite mounting pressure from fans and analysts who believe the franchise’s struggles at quarterback demand a more aggressive approach in the draft. The Steelers’ quarterback situation remains uncertain, with both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields out of contract for 2025. Wilson, who joined the Steelers on a one-year deal last season, has expressed interest in returning, while Fields’ future with the franchise remains unclear.
Tomlin’s decision not to pursue a higher draft position could complicate the team’s efforts to secure a franchise quarterback. Top prospects like USC’s Caleb Williams and North Carolina’s Drake Maye are projected to be selected early in the draft, well out of the Steelers’ reach. However, Tomlin has emphasized that great quarterbacks can be found outside the top selections, citing historical success stories of mid-round picks excelling in the NFL.
The Steelers’ draft challenges extend beyond the quarterback position. The offensive line needs bolstering after inconsistent performances late in the season, while the defense, despite flashes of brilliance, could use reinforcements in the secondary. Pittsburgh’s offensive struggles, scoring 17 points or fewer in their final five games, highlight the need for impactful additions in both the passing game and protection schemes.
Critics argue that Tomlin’s unwavering approach might be holding the team back from securing elite talent. NFL analyst Shannon Sharpe recently questioned the Steelers’ long-term strategy, suggesting that a more aggressive draft approach could be necessary for a true rebuild.
On the other hand, Tomlin’s philosophy has kept the Steelers competitive, as he has never had a losing season in his 18-year tenure. The challenge now will be balancing the franchise’s winning culture with the need for a talent infusion capable of ending their postseason drought.
With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, all eyes will be on Pittsburgh’s front office to see if they can make impactful moves from the 21st pick or explore trade options to climb the draft board. For now, Tomlin’s focus remains on maintaining a competitive mindset, even as the team faces significant roster decisions in the months ahead.
