The Pittsburgh Steelers are assumed to be set at the quarterback position for years to come. Ben Roethlishberger does not seem to be losing his job at starter anytime soon. However, that is not stopping the team from showing interest in late-draft quarterback options. The team is somewhat shaky with a backup option and is reportedly looking to bring a rookie in to learn behind Roethlisberger. The Steelers are pursing former Tennessee quarterback Tyler Bray to draft in a late round.
Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert has said the team is openly considering drafting a quarterback. The only player they have shown a high amount of interest in is Bray, taking him out to dinner after his Pro Day. Currently, Bruce Gradkowski is the backup to Roethlisberger and Bray could be No. 3 on the list.
Roethlisberger is 31, entering into his 10th season in the NFL. He currently has three years remaining on his recently restructured $100 million deal. The team has no intention of replacing him, but is in the market for a quarterback they can take time to develop.
Bray decided to skip his senior season at Tennessee, despite never producing a real winning season for the Volunteers. He was impressive in stats, but not in wins. In his three seasons in at Tennessee, he threw for 7,444 yards and 69 touchdowns. Primarily a packet passer, he excels because of his arm strength but not necessarily in his decision making. The Steelers could draft him around the third or fourth round. Former NFL coach Jon Gruden believes Bray needs a lot of refinement.
"He's got to learn how to manage some situations better. He's got to deliver at crunch time. He's got to polish his game," Gruden said.
Given that Roethlisberger still has a least three years with the team, that gives the Steelers plenty of time to help Bray progress into the type of player that could be the current starter's future replacement. If they do not end up drafting a rookie quarterback, the team will likely re-sign Charlie Batch to the team for the No. 3 spot.
The Steelers also spent time with E.J. Manuel. He is the type of quarterback that fits the new trend of a read-option player. He does not necessarily fit the mold of the Steelers' current offense built around Roethlisberger, but has better game tape than Bray. Manuel is likely to not be on the board past the second round and if the Steelers do not intend on grabbing anyone until at least the third round, Bray is the best choice.
