Just a few weeks into the 2025 NFL season, Aaron Rodgers has already bounced back from his disaster with the Jets. After a disappointing stint in New York, the veteran quarterback was thought to be at a low point in his career. So far, he’s looked like a competent starter, capable of leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to another competitive year.
Still, Rodgers was never going to be a long-term solution at quarterback. The 41-year-old could be set to retire after this season, leaving the Steelers without an answer at quarterback once again. Instead of taking another swing at a cheap veteran, it’s time for Pittsburgh to find its future franchise QB.
They may not be in a position to pick one of the top quarterbacks in the 2026 NFL Draft, but Oregon’s Dante Moore has emerged as an intriguing option in the middle of the first round.
Pittsburgh Steelers could be the perfect spot for Oregon quarterback Dante Moore
Moore’s measurables don’t jump off the page. He’s a bit undersized at 210 pounds and doesn’t have the elite arm strength of other top prospects. He isn’t the most mobile quarterback, either. But the Oregon QB’s accuracy and anticipation make him one of the most dangerous players in college football.
He can access all areas of the field with excellent ball placement, putting his receivers in position to make big plays. His ability to process coverages puts him one step ahead of the defense at all times.
After spending the 2024 season as current Browns QB Dillon Gabriel’s backup, Moore has quickly established himself as one of the top prospects in the upcoming class. He’s been clinical in the first five games of the season, throwing for over 1,200 yards and 14 touchdowns and leading the Ducks to an undefeated start.
He’s even stepped up in an overtime win on the road against powerhouse Penn State. His 83.0 QBR on the year shows his ability to get the ball out quickly and avoid costly mistakes.
The young quarterback could be a perfect fit in Arthur Smith’s offense. Smith loves to use play action and crossing routes to set his passers up for easy reads over the middle of the field. Moore’s accuracy and quick processing ability could help him thrive in that scheme. Think of how quickly Bo Nix has become a capable starter for the Denver Broncos. Moore could be the same thing for the Steelers, with the potential to grow into even more.
It’s time for the Steelers to get off the veteran quarterback merry-go-round. Drafting Moore
