In the initial two years of Kenny Pickett’s tenure with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team faced challenges marked by injuries and inconsistent performance, prompting considerations of a potential quarterback replacement in the upcoming offseason. While there has been speculation about the Steelers being interested in Justin Fields via trade, another scenario involves a significant move up the draft board. According to the latest 2024 NFL mock draft by CBS Sports, the Steelers trade up from the 20th pick to the top 10, exchanging positions with the Chicago Bears to secure Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy at the 9th selection.
The details of the compensation in this proposed trade remain unclear, and it raises questions about the likelihood from the Steelers’ perspective. While the need for an upgraded quarterback is evident, making a substantial move into the top 10 for the fourth-best quarterback in the draft might not align with the team’s current strategy. The Steelers are more likely to target an offensive lineman or a cornerback with their top pick, potentially moving up a few spots if necessary, similar to their approach in the previous year when selecting offensive tackle Broderick Jones.
Considering the Bears’ standpoint, the suggested trade seems unlikely, especially as Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze was still available in this mock draft when they opted for a significant drop to the 20th pick. Whether retaining Fields or selecting USC quarterback Caleb Williams with the No. 1 pick, the opportunity to add another elite pass-catcher to complement D.J. Moore appears more valuable to the Bears than any potential return from the Steelers for moving down.