Steelers Should Take Chance on Arkansas QB Taylen Green in NFL Draft

Pittsburgh could find a long-term option at QB late in the draft despite a weak 2026 class.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:00am

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The Pittsburgh Steelers have 12 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft and should consider taking a chance on Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green, a raw but highly athletic prospect, even though the overall QB class is weak. Green has the physical tools that teams covet, including a 4.36-second 40-yard dash and 43.5-inch vertical jump, but needs significant development in the pocket. He could be an ideal fit in Pittsburgh, where he could learn behind expected starter Aaron Rodgers without immediate pressure to play.

Why it matters

The Steelers are in need of a long-term solution at quarterback, and with Rodgers potentially returning, they have the luxury of developing a raw talent like Green without rushing him into action. His combination of arm strength and elite athleticism make him an intriguing project-type player that could pay dividends down the road.

The details

Green was a productive dual-threat QB in college, throwing for 9,662 yards and 59 touchdowns while also rushing for 2,403 yards and 35 scores between Boise State and Arkansas. His standout combine performance, including record-setting numbers in the 40-yard dash and vertical jump, has scouts excited about his physical tools. However, he is still very raw as a pocket passer and would likely need several years of development before being ready to start in the NFL.

  • Green put on a show at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in March.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26.

The players

Taylen Green

A quarterback prospect from the University of Arkansas known for his elite athleticism and dual-threat ability, though he is still developing as a passer.

Aaron Rodgers

The veteran quarterback who is expected to return as the starter for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2026.

Mike McCarthy

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who would be tasked with developing Green if the team drafts him.

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What’s next

The Steelers will have a chance to select Green in the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place from April 24-26.

The takeaway

By taking a chance on Taylen Green in the later rounds of the 2026 draft, the Steelers could find a high-upside quarterback prospect to develop behind Aaron Rodgers without the immediate pressure to play. Green's elite athleticism and arm strength give him intriguing long-term potential, even if he is a raw prospect who needs time to refine his skills.