Ryan Clark Urges Steelers to Tank for Arch Manning, Nussmeier

ESPN analyst and former Steelers safety Ryan Clark has called for the Pittsburgh Steelers to intentionally tank the 2025 NFL season, arguing that the team's current roster is not competitive enough and that they should aim to secure a top pick in the 2026 draft to select either Texas quarterback Arch Manning or LSU's Garrett Nussmeier. Clark's comments follow the Steelers' trade of star wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, signaling a possible rebuild as Pittsburgh accumulates future draft picks. The team has yet to commit to a new quarterback, with veteran Aaron Rodgers' future still uncertain, and passed on drafting a QB this offseason. While Nussmeier is projected as a top pick in 2026, Manning is entering his first season as a college starter and may not declare for the draft until 2027, contrary to some fan expectations. The debate over the Steelers' direction reflects growing skepticism about their ability to contend in the near term, even with a potential Rodgers signing. The moves and speculation underscore a pivotal moment for the franchise, known for its consistent winning record under coach Mike Tomlin but now facing calls for a strategic reset.