Steelers Draft: Ben Roethlisberger won't last forever

Ben Roethlisberger won’t be on the field forever. Is his replacement in the upcoming draft class?

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Coach Mike Tomlin has done well furthering the development of #7 over his years as Steelers head coach. However, the all time leading passer in Steelers history shall not last forever. Coach Tomlin and the front office must begin looking for a future plan behind center.

Ben Roethlisberger is already 34 years of age and suffered significant injuries over the recent seasons, making his long-term health a concern. Who may be worthy to take up reigns of the sophisticated Steelers offense? Landry Jones? Zach Mettenberger? Most likely not.

All of that said Pittsburgh could look to this upcoming NFL draft could have some diamonds hidden in the rough like years past *cough Derek Carr *cough Dak Prescott.

Ohio State QB, JT Barrett

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The Buckeye all-time passing touchdown leader has earned his rightful spot as the starter for Ohio State this season and has not disappointed, posting 1675 passing yards with 17 passing scores and 4 picks.

While Barrett is a dual threat player racking up 531 yards and 6 TD’s on the ground this season, he is a student of the game.

Urban Meyer has developed him into an above average passer with NFL caliber deep ball ability and the talent to be very successful in a fluid Todd Haley offense while developing with Martavis Bryant and Sammie Coates.

Texas Tech QB, Patrick Mahomes II

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Patrick Mahomes II has set the FBS stat sheet ablaze this season, putting up monster numbers in pasing yards 3519, passing touchdowns 28 and 276 yards on the ground with 10 scores. Mahomes has put Texas Tech on his back this season and while he does play in an air raid offense, his skill throwing the football is undeniable.

Any throw a QB could be asked to make Mahomes has made 10 times over. He is efficient, accurate and a competitor of the highest level yet remains willing to be coached. He could be a great pupil for Ben Roethlisberger and Tomlin.

Clemson QB, Deshaun Watson

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First of all, the Steelers are projected to do well this season and considering how highly touted Watson is, him being available seems like a huge long shot but Blake Bortles & Johnny Manziel were drafted before Teddy Bridgewater & Derek Carr therefore anything is possible on draft day

That said, Watson may fall far enough for Pittsburgh to get him, thus creating an intriguing situation.

Watson is the ultimate student, his work ethic off the field is second to none in the FBS and natural leadership ability sets him apart from other young signal callers.

The Clemson star has produced 2328 yards and 22 scores through the air. Watson has talent, yet is still hard working and seems to lack cockiness thus limiting any character issues.

Cal QB, Davis Webb

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Senior Transfer Davis Webb has yet to dissappiont this season, furthermore proving seniors can still play. He has adjusted to the playbook over at Cal and has produced big time for the Golden bears. Webb has passed for 2914 yards, 29 touchdowns and 8 picks in 8 games.

He is a natural thrower and accurate as well. Webbs greatest strength appears to be his mental game as he has gone from top of the depth chart to rock bottom to new guy. A lot of change in a short time and Webb has yet to show any sign of it affecting him.