Scout’s Eye with Matt Williamson: Go after the quarterback?
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In this episode of DK Pittsburgh Sports, Matt Williamson dives into a mailbag-style discussion ahead of the NFL Draft, addressing fan questions about draft strategy, player evaluations, and quarterback prospects. He praises Notre Dame tight end Rairden for his athleticism, blocking ability, and potential as a developmental project, while also discussing the value of consolidating late-round picks to trade up for higher-impact players. Williamson weighs in on the Steelers' potential to move up in the draft, expressing cautious optimism about targeting a top-tier quarterback like Simpson, though he remains skeptical due to concerns about size and durability. He advocates for patience, suggesting the Steelers could wait until next year when more quarterback talent may be available. The conversation also touches on free-agent and trade options for wide receivers, the importance of building a strong offensive line, and the possibility of acquiring a veteran quarterback via trade instead of drafting a rookie. Throughout, Williamson emphasizes strategic flexibility, long-term planning, and the need to avoid settling for 'safe' picks when a superstar potential exists.
Consolidate late-round picks to trade up for higher-impact players in the first or second round.
Prioritize developmental talent like Rairden and project tackles (e.g., Burke, Bell) over immediate starters.
Be cautious about drafting a quarterback like Simpson due to size and durability concerns; consider waiting for next year’s draft.
Veteran quarterback acquisitions via trade are a viable alternative to drafting a rookie, especially with cap space.
Even if not drafting a wide receiver in Round 1, use Day 2 picks to build depth and develop young talent.
…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus
Draft Mailbag Intro & Rairden Evaluation
“I think he's more than good enough to handle edge players, let alone linebackers a high percentage of the time without compromising the ability to be a legit receiver.”
Trading Up Strategy & Pick Consolidation
Williamson discusses the feasibility of trading multiple late-round picks to move up in the draft, citing the Steelers’ potential to move from 53rd to 43rd in Round 2 with minimal cost.
Project Tackles: Burke, Bell, and World
Williamson highlights high-upside, large-frame tackles like Burke and Bell as ideal third-round targets, while dismissing Oregon’s World as a mismatch between hype and on-field performance.
Quarterback Outlook: Rodgers & Future Prospects
Addressing Dave’s question, Williamson expresses cautious optimism about Rodgers’ potential for improvement with better weapons, while acknowledging age-related risks and the need for a strong supporting cast.
Wide Receiver Strategy: Draft vs. Free Agency
Williamson weighs in on the Steelers’ likely approach to wide receiver needs, suggesting a mix of draft picks and post-draft free agent signings, especially if a first-round QB is selected.
“The goal isn't to get a starting quarterback or the next starting quarterback. It's to get the starting quarterback. I mean, you're trying to get Ben here.”
“I'd rather wait a year and give it a shot from there. You know what I mean? The other side note... there's more options a year from now to make that happen.”
“I don't want just the safe pick because he's available and we'll just take him. I want to be at the plate swinging for the fences and take a guy that I think can be the total superstar.”
Host
Matt Williamson
person
Steelers
organization
Rairden
person
Simpson
person
Burke
person
Notre Dame
organization
Bell
person
Aaron Rodgers
person
Tyler
person
T-Mac
person
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