CBS Sports Mocks Liberty QB Malik Willis to Steelers in 2022 NFL Draft

CBS Sports has unveiled their latest mock draft, and are projecting the Pittsburgh Steelers to draft their quarterback of the future in the first round.

With the 20th-overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, CBS Sports has Pittsburgh selecting Liberty quarterback Malik Willis.

As Ben Roethlisberger enters retirement, Willis’ combination of athleticism and arm strength could bring a skill set at the position to Pittsburgh not seen since the likes of Kordell Stewart.

“Ben Roethlisberger calls it quits following an improbable playoff appearance, but the Steelers don’t waste any time trying to find the next quarterback to star in the Steel City,” CBS Sports’ Kyle Stackpole writes. “Willis is already a dynamic runner who can spray the ball all over the field, but he must become more accurate, a better decision-maker and take better care of the ball.”

Still, Willis would likely not be ready to play right away, which could force Pittsburgh to hypothetically look elsewhere for a temporary stopgap at the position while he matures.

“Willis is too raw to start right away, so maybe Pittsburgh brings in an established veteran for him to learn behind,” Stackpole adds. “Once he’s ready, the Steelers should have the pieces in place (improved offensive line, a more cohesive defense) to help Willis succeed.”

Willis began his career at Auburn, but burst onto the season after transferring to Liberty in 2019. He passed for 5,107 yards and 47 touchdowns with 18 interceptions over two seasons as the Flames’ starter.

Willis is currently CBS Sports’ third-ranked player at the position and 17th-overall prospect.

Pittsburgh has not selected a quarterback in the first round since Roethlisberger in 2004.