2022 NFL Draft: Top 3 options for the Steelers at No. 20
By Shane Lunnen
3. Desmond Ridder – QB, Cincinnati
It is certainly not a given the Steelers will draft a quarterback in the first round. It is a position not as deep in the 2022 class but there are some good ones that will be available in the first round.
Mike Tomlin and Kevin Colbert have made it known they are very interested in this year’s quarterbacks given all the scouting they have done. It seems they are most interested in Malik Willis from Liberty as their top choice. However Willis likely would not fall to pick number 20 so if the Steelers want him, they will have to give up some draft capital to move up the board.
Perhaps Tomlin and Colbert do not want to give up picks but still want a franchise quarterback. Desmond Ridder could be their guy.
Ridder has a lot of traits the Steelers like. He’s a bigger quarterback, which worked out pretty well for them with their previous franchise quarterback. He has a solid arm but also has some speed with his legs. A more mobile quarterback is something the Steelers need and fits better with offensive coordinator Matt Canada’s playbook.
Ridder is a winner. He turned Cincinnati into a playoff contender. He checks off a lot of what the Steelers are looking for in a franchise quarterback. While he may not be their top choice like Willis, they should not have to give up anything to get him.