Steelers Connected to QB Prospect Who ‘Turned Heads’ at NFL Combine
Adam Schefter of ESPN reported on March 2 that the Pittsburgh Steelers remain one of the top destinations for Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields in a trade. But other pundits have continued to connect the Steelers with quarterback options in the 2024 NFL draft. That includes Michigan signal caller J.J. McCarthy, who had a solid week at the NFL scouting combine.
On March 2, CBS Sports’ Jordan Dajani named the Steelers one of the best five fits for for McCarthy.
“The hiring of Arthur Smith as offensive coordinator makes me think McCarthy could be a good fit in Pittsburgh. Some view Smith as an offensive coach who couldn’t get the most out of his top weapons in Atlanta, but what we do know about Smith is that he can build a legitimate rushing attack,” Dajani wrote.
“The Atlanta Falcons‘ ground game ranked ninth last year, and third in 2022. During his time as the offensive coordinator of the Tennessee Titans, Smith’s rushing attack ranked No. 2 in the league in 2020, and No. 3 in 2019.
“McCarthy benefitted from a good defense and a rushing attack — which Pittsburgh will surely have with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. Getting to throw the ball to playmakers like George Pickens, Diontae Johnson and Pat Freiermuth would be fun, too.”
MLive.com’s Ryan Zuke wrote that McCarthy “turned heads” at the NFL combine thanks to a few measurables. He weighed more and was taller than expected. McCarthy also performed well in the 3-cone drill and the 20-yard shuttle.