Quarterback is the least of the Cincinnati Bengals’ concerns.
Obvious, right?
But things couldn’t be more different for one of their division rivals. The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently in arguably the worst quarterback situation in the entire NFL, with Mason Rudolph tentatively slated as their starter.
Looking ahead, the Steelers might be in a solid spot to draft a quarterback in 2025. Depending on how the Aaron Rodgers situation plays out, they could be in line to grab a rookie signal-caller with the 21st overall pick.
Still, there’s a very real scenario where Pittsburgh misses out — and Cincinnati could play a major role in making that happen.
It would be the funniest thing ever if the Steelers were left without options at quarterback
Here’s how it could all unfold…
The Tennessee Titans kick things off by taking Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick. Fast forward to No. 9, and the New Orleans Saints pounce on Shedeur Sanders, who’s still sitting there. With the recent Derek Carr situation, this would be an ideal outcome for New Orleans.
Now Pittsburgh starts to feel the heat. Jaxson Dart is still available, and realistically, there’s little chance anyone reaches for him between picks 10 and 15.
As the draft progresses, the Steelers begin eyeing pick No. 16, held by the Arizona Cardinals, contemplating a move up to grab Dart. But instead of pulling the trigger, they decide to wait until after the Bengals pick at No. 17—for obvious reasons.
Cincinnati isn’t in the market for a quarterback.
That said, the Bengals could absolutely entertain offers to trade that pick. The question is—who’d be bold enough to jump up for Dart at such a debated spot? You’d think it would take a team in serious need.
Enter: the Cleveland Browns.
Oh, wouldn’t it be poetic? An AFC North rival swooping in to sabotage the Steelers’ plans? Chef’s kiss.
Cleveland fits the bill of desperation. They’re picking at No. 33, and Dart may not last that long. And with their current QB situation—Deshaun Watson’s uncertain future and Joe Flacco nearing 40—it’s not hard to imagine them making a bold move.
Let’s not pretend Kenny Pickett solves anything, either.
And if it’s not the Browns, how about the Los Angeles Rams coming up from No. 26? Les Snead has a track record of swinging big. Matthew Stafford’s timeline is short, and Sean McVay has flirted with stepping away from coaching. Locking in a talented young QB could be the ticket to keeping him around for the long haul.
This scenario might sound wild, but it makes sense. The Bengals have needs and could benefit from trading back and stacking picks. If Duke Tobin plays his cards right and fields the right calls, Pittsburgh could end up empty-handed.
And that, friends, would be chef’s kiss comedy.
Be the first to comment