June 22, 2026, 4:47 p.m. ET

The NFL’s supplemental draft rarely commands the attention of Baltimore Ravens fans across the map. This year may be different. Former college quarterback Brendan Sorsby officially submitted paperwork to enter the supplemental draft before the June 22 deadline, ending his collegiate eligibility and opening the door to a professional opportunity.

Why is that important to the Ravens, you ask? His application now awaits league approval, but his decision has already generated intrigue around the NFL. That intrigue appears to include one of Baltimore’s biggest rivals.

According to Mike DeFabo of The Athletic, the Pittsburgh Steelers are doing their homework on Sorsby and aren’t dismissing him because of the gambling-related controversy that contributed to his departure from college football. In his recent appearance on The Yinziders, he offered an interesting assessment of the situation, stating the Steelers are doing their homework.

“It sounds like (Sorsby’s being punished for gambling) at this point would not be a disqualifier for the Steelers.”

Those comments may not guarantee Pittsburgh will pursue Sorsby, but they do suggest the organization views him as worthy of further evaluation. That should pique the Ravens’ interest.

Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.The Ravens and Steelers need to think beyond Aaron Rodgers

Part of Pittsburgh’s interest makes perfect sense. Aaron Rodgers remains one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history, but he’s also nearing the end of his playing career. Even if he performs well this season, the Steelers must eventually identify a long-term succession plan. That’s easier said than done. Finding franchise quarterbacks remains one of the most difficult challenges in professional sports. Teams spend years searching for answers at the position. Some never find them.

The Steelers understand that reality better than most. While Rodgers provides short-term stability, Pittsburgh’s front office must simultaneously evaluate every realistic opportunity to improve its long-term outlook. Sorsby represents one such opportunity.

The QB talent in the AFC North raises the urgency

The AFC North division only adds pressure to the equation. The Ravens enter the season with Lamar Jackson, a two-time NFL MVP and one of the league’s premier quarterbacks. The Cincinnati Bengals continue building around Joe Burrow, another established franchise signal-caller who has already guided his team to a Super Bowl appearance.

That leaves Pittsburgh searching for its own long-term answer. Competing in the AFC North requires more than fielding a quality roster. It often requires elite quarterback play. The Ravens and Bengals have already solved that puzzle. The Steelers are still working on it.

Whether Sorsby can eventually become that type of player remains unknown, but Pittsburgh would be irresponsible not to investigate every possibility.