Steelers need to target backup quarterback in the NFL Draft
On the surface, the Pittsburgh Steelers look to be in good shape when it comes to the quarterback room, with Kenny Pickett well on his way to becoming a franchise QB, and Mitch Trubisky slated to be the backup. Back when you consider the financials currently tied up in Trubisky's contract and the lack of […]
On the surface, the Pittsburgh Steelers look to be in good shape when it comes to the quarterback room, with Kenny Pickett well on his way to becoming a franchise QB, and Mitch Trubisky slated to be the backup.
Back when you consider the financials currently tied up in Trubisky's contract and the lack of depth behind him, there's a real scenario where Pittsburgh could, and (in my opinion) should address the backup quarterback position in the NFL Draft.
I'm not saying to invest in a top 100 pick or even an early day three selection. But there's one prospect that sticks out above the rest when it comes to the late day three, or priority-free agent set of signal callers. Who is that? glad you asked.
Todd Centeio, QB, James Madison
If you are unfamiliar with the name, let me introduce you to one of the best passers in all of the FBS last year, as Centeio finished amongst the top five of all quarterbacks graded by PFF, with a score of 90.4.
A prime example of the modern quarterback, what Centeio lacks in height, he makes up for with excellent athleticism, a live arm and a sturdy build.
Centeio's exceptional vertical jump and 10-yard split display the short-area explosion you want from a quarterback, as it translates to his ability to avoid a collapsing pocket or garner yards as a scrambler.
The best part about Centeio's projection is that his areas of improvement are very coachable, specifically when addressing his anticipation and movement within the pocket.
But Centeio's arm strength, open-field vision, and playmaking ability are all innate talents, making him a considerable prospect and the best of the rest when it comes to the quarterbacks in this class.
And you don't have to take my word for it, here's what some of the media thinks:
Centeio isn't currently projected to be drafted when it comes to the consensus board, but sources close to him have confirmed to me that certain teams have been in contact with the talented passer, all but assuring he will get a shot in the league.
The Steelers probably know that, meaning he's a prime candidate for their 234th or 241st selection of the seventh round.
And for reference, I have a 6.0 grade on Centeio, which translates to a 4th-round pick, and can be described as a player with the traits or talent to be an above-average backup.
The Steelers can save $8 million dollars against the cap by releasing Trubisky, boast an offense that is college quarterback friendly, and need to take the future of backup quarterback seriously.
Considering the aforementioned variables, good luck finding better value than Todd Centeio.
