Steelers ‘Need’ QB: Is Ty Simpson the Answer?

Steelers ‘Need’ QB: Is Ty Simpson the Answer?

The NFL Draft is here, and the question on everyone’s mind for the Pittsburgh Steelers is simple: who will lead the team under center? While many analysts believe the Steelers desperately need a quarterback, the debate is heating up about whether Alabama’s Ty Simpson is the right man for the job.

Stephen A. Smith, a prominent voice on ESPN’s First Take, made a bold statement, suggesting the Steelers are practically forced to take a quarterback due to their current situation.

Smith pointed out the Steelers’ reliance on a quarterback nearing 43 years old, implying their current options are limited. He questioned how any team, especially the Steelers, could pass on a quarterback prospect if one is available at their draft position.

“You are the Pittsburgh Steelers. Unless Will Howard has shown us something that we haven’t seen, we haven’t heard, or anything like that, how can you possibly pass on him?” Smith argued, highlighting the team’s history of quarterback struggles.

The Case for Ty Simpson

Despite the urgency, not everyone is convinced Ty Simpson is the solution. Mina Kimes, another analyst on First Take, expressed skepticism about Simpson’s readiness for the NFL, especially as a first-round pick.

She noted that Simpson’s tape shows potential, with an NFL-caliber arm and a high football IQ. However, Kimes also pointed out his significant lack of experience, with very few starts in college.

Kimes compared Simpson’s profile to other highly drafted quarterbacks who struggled, like Anthony Richardson. She also raised concerns about his size, standing at 6’1″ and weighing under 215 lbs, noting that few quarterbacks of similar stature have succeeded in the league.

“You’re talking about Russell Wilson who put on some weight, Mike Vick, who was one of the greatest athletes ever play the game… And then Bryce Young,” Kimes stated, questioning if Simpson could truly reach that level.

Stephen A. vs. The Analysts

Stephen A. Smith pushed back against the cautious approach, emphasizing the Steelers’ desperate need.

He recalled an eight-game stretch where Simpson threw 19 touchdowns with only one interception, showcasing his potential. Smith acknowledged that Simpson also had a six-game stretch with fewer completions and more interceptions, but attributed some of that to surrounding factors.

“There were some injuries that came into play, no doubt. You have receivers dropping passes. There’s no doubt.

We had an Alabama crew that couldn’t run the football. There’s no doubt. We had an offensive line that wasn’t the greatest in the world at blocking and protecting their pass thrower,” Smith explained, defending Simpson against the criticisms.

A Look Back at Kenny Pickett

The discussion then turned to the Steelers’ past draft decisions, drawing parallels between Ty Simpson and Kenny Pickett. Mina Kimes argued that the hype around Pickett during his draft was similar to the buzz around Simpson now, suggesting a pattern of hope over proven performance.

“When Kenny Pickett was picked, one of the biggest reasons people were talking about him, it wasn’t just about his talent, he had potential, or whatever. They weren’t talking about him like Ty Simpson. He was right there in Pittsburgh, playing for the University of Pittsburgh, practicing on the same damn field as Pittsburgh,” Kimes recalled, highlighting the local connection that influenced Pickett’s perception.

The Running Back Debate: Jeremiah Love

The conversation also touched upon Notre Dame running back Jeremiah Love, with analysts debating his potential draft position. While some see him as the best player in the draft and a top-five talent, others question the value of drafting a running back so high.

“If you’re taking a running back top five, the first thing you have to do is obviously scout the running back. Is he worth it?

I think we all agree Jeremiah Love is if not the most talented, one of the most talented players in the draft,” said Kimes, acknowledging Love’s exceptional talent. However, she stressed the importance of roster construction and offensive line strength when considering such a pick.

Ryan Clark countered, arguing that Love’s dynamic ability makes him a can’t-miss prospect. “He’s going to give you immediate impact. If you’re the New York Giants and now you have a pick at 10, you have the quarterback of the future in Jackson Dart already.

You have Malik Nabers who is a sure fire number one. Do not talk yourself out of picking the best player in this draft at a position where he is valued,” Clark urged, believing Love could transform a team.

Ultimately, the experts agreed that while teams might be hesitant to trade up for a running back, Love could be a steal if he falls past the top five picks. The NFL Draft promises plenty of drama, especially for teams like the Steelers looking to secure their future.

Source: Stephen A. says the STEELERS NEED a QB because they’re ‘dependent on a GERIATRIC!’ 😬 | First Take (YouTube)