Last Thursday, the Pittsburgh Steelers hosted quarterback Shedeur Sanders for a pre-draft visit, signaling growing interest as his draft stock continues to dip.
Once considered a near-lock for a top-three selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders has seen his value slide in recent weeks. With the New York Giants and Cleveland Browns reportedly no longer targeting him, Sanders has become a more realistic option for the Steelers at No. 21 overall.
However, the biggest obstacle to that scenario is the New Orleans Saints, who hold the No. 9 pick. After a shoulder injury to starting quarterback Derek Carr—and with Carr’s contract up after this season—the Saints are in a state of uncertainty, potentially putting them in the quarterback market.
If Pittsburgh is serious about Sanders, they may consider jumping ahead of New Orleans. The Carolina Panthers at No. 8 could be a logical trade partner. ESPN’s Dan Graziano noted that the Steelers are one of the key teams to watch for a potential move up the board.
“If the Saints are eyeing Sanders at nine, that may have always been their plan given Carr’s contract situation,” Graziano said on SportsCenter. “But if Sanders makes it past nine and into the teens, keep an eye on the Steelers. They brought him in for a visit, and they’ve had a standing offer out to Aaron Rodgers while awaiting a decision.”
Sanders gave his visit high marks, calling it a “ten out of ten” and drawing parallels between head coach Mike Tomlin and his father, NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders.
After starring at Colorado from 2023–2024, Sanders’ draft stock has cooled significantly, making it increasingly plausible that he could still be available when the Steelers are on the clock at No. 21.
