According to draft analyst Todd McShay, “Mike Tomlin really likes Shedeur. If he’s there at 21, Shedeur could very well be a Pittsburgh Steeler.” That sentiment has gained traction over the past couple of weeks, especially after Sanders made a pre-draft visit to the Steelers' facility on April 10.
Sanders had nothing but praise for the organization afterward, calling the visit “great” and giving it a “10 out of 10,” while noting that Tomlin reminds him of his father, Deion Sanders.
𝗥𝗨𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗦: #Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin “really likes” Shedeur Sanders and it’s a real option at QB for them if he’s on the board at pick 21, says @McShay13 pic.twitter.com/w3vYNCOKQw
— JPAFootball (@jasrifootball) April 15, 2025
The interest appears to be mutual. Jeff Hathhorn of 93.7 The Fan reported that Sanders would also welcome the opportunity to play under Tomlin, citing mutual respect between the families.
ESPN's Adam Schefter recently stated that Sanders is the only quarterback the Steelers would consider taking in the first round. Despite early projections placing him as a top-three pick, Sanders’ stock has become harder to pin down, with speculation now ranging from a possible slide out of the top 10 to a surprise pick in the teens.
If he falls, Pittsburgh may not hesitate to act—whether by staying put at 21 or potentially trading up.
𝗥𝗨𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗦: Steelers HC Mike Tomlin “really likes” Shedeur Sanders and is highly considering drafting him at QB for them if he’s on the board at pick 21, per @McShay13
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) April 15, 2025
Sanders would thrive under Tomlin 👀 pic.twitter.com/dkKnGKgxcb
The Steelers' quarterback situation remains fluid, with Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson the only signal-callers currently under contract.
Aaron Rodgers has long been linked to Pittsburgh, but with no commitment yet, the team may still look to draft its future franchise leader. Even if Rodgers signs, selecting Sanders to develop behind him would be a logical long-term move.
The Steelers have a history of landing their quarterback of the future when others pass—Ben Roethlisberger fell to them at 11th overall in 2004. If Sanders is still on the board when they pick, history could repeat itself.
Photo Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
