The Pittsburgh Steelers are coming off a disappointing 2022 season, finishing with a record of 9-8 and missing the playoffs. With the NFL Draft approaching, the Steelers have a lot of holes to fill on their roster. In this mock draft, we will take a look at some of the players that the Steelers could target with their first few picks.
With the 17th overall pick, the Steelers could select Anthony Richardson, a quarterback from the University of Florida. Richardson is a 6’4″, 244-pound quarterback with a strong arm and good mobility. He is a raw talent, but he has the potential to be a franchise quarterback. If the Steelers are looking for a quarterback of the future, Richardson could be a good option for them. Additionally, the Steelers could trade up to select C.J. Stroud, a quarterback from the University of Ohio State. Stroud is a more polished quarterback than Richardson, but he does not have the same upside. However, he would be a safe pick for the Steelers and could be a good option to start right away.
If the Steelers decide to address other needs with their first pick, they could target a wide receiver or a defensive back with their second pick. Some wide receivers that the Steelers could target include Josh Downs, a wide receiver from the University of North Carolina, and Jalin Hyatt, a wide receiver from the University of Tennessee. Downs is a slot receiver with good hands and route running ability. Hyatt is a deep threat with good speed and athleticism. Both Downs and Hyatt would be good additions to the Steelers’ offense. Some defensive backs that the Steelers could target include Cam Smith, a cornerback from the University of South Carolina, and Julius Brents, a safety from the University of Kansas. Smith is a physical cornerback with good coverage skills. Brents is a versatile safety who can play both deep and in the box. Both Smith and Brents would be good additions to the Steelers’ defense.
The Rise of the Steel Curtain
The Steel Curtain is a nickname given to the defensive unit of the Pittsburgh Steelers American football team, which was particularly dominant in the 1970s. The unit was known for its physicality, toughness, and ability to force turnovers, a reputation that has been maintained by the team to this day. The Steelers’ defense has been a major factor in the team’s six Super Bowl victories, more than any other team.
The Steel Curtain was most famous for the famous “Steel Curtain Four”: Hall of Famers Joe Greene, L. C. Greenwood, Jack Ham, and Mel Blount. These players were all drafted by the Steelers in the first round of the 1969 NFL Draft, a highly controversial move for a team that went 2-11-1 the previous season. However, it turned out to be a brilliant decision, as the four players would become the cornerstone of one of the greatest defenses in NFL history.
The Steel Curtain was known for its physicality and toughness. They were relentless tacklers who often forced fumbles and interceptions. They were also very good at putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which led to many sacks and turnovers. The Steelers’ defense was so dominant that they often forced opponents to abandon their running game and rely on the pass. This made it easier for the Steelers to get to the quarterback and force turnovers, which was a major factor in their success.
| Player | Position | College | Draft Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Greene | Defensive Tackle | North Texas State | 1969 |
| L. C. Greenwood | Defensive End | Arkansas | 1969 |
| Jack Ham | Linebacker | Penn State | 1971 |
| Mel Blount | Cornerback | Southern | 1970 |
Round 1, Pick 1: Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon
With the top pick in the draft, the Steelers select the best player available in Kayvon Thibodeaux. Thibodeaux is a dynamic edge rusher with an explosive first step and an arsenal of pass-rushing moves. He has the potential to be a game-changer for the Steelers’ defense, providing them with a much-needed pass rusher.
Round 1, Pick 20: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
The Steelers address their quarterback situation by drafting Bryce Young with the 20th overall pick. Young is a Heisman Trophy winner and one of the most talented quarterbacks in the country. He has a strong arm, excellent mobility, and a high football IQ. Young has the potential to be a franchise quarterback for the Steelers for years to come.
Scouting for Superstars
In addition to Thibodeaux and Young, the Steelers have several other potential superstars on their roster. These players have the talent and potential to become All-Pros and help the Steelers compete for a Super Bowl championship.
Some of the Steelers’ most promising young players include:
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| George Pickens | Wide receiver |
| Kenny Pickett | Quarterback |
| Najee Harris | Running back |
| Pat Freiermuth | Tight end |
Reinforcements for the Rush
The Steelers’ pass rush has been one of the league’s most formidable units in recent years, but they could use some reinforcements to ensure their dominance continues. Here are a few players who could help the Steelers get after the quarterback in 2025:
**1. Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson**
Murphy is a 6’5″, 275-pound edge rusher who is considered one of the best prospects at his position in the 2025 NFL Draft. He has a rare combination of size, speed, and power, and he has already shown a knack for getting to the quarterback. In his first two seasons at Clemson, Murphy has recorded 20.5 tackles for loss and 12.5 sacks.
**2. Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas**
Stewart is a 6’3″, 255-pound edge rusher who is known for his relentless motor and his ability to generate pressure from multiple positions. He is not as physically imposing as Murphy, but he makes up for it with his speed, agility, and technique. In his first two seasons at Texas, Stewart has recorded 18 tackles for loss and 10 sacks.
**3. Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia**
Smith is a 6’3″, 245-pound edge rusher who is considered one of the most complete and versatile players at his position. He has a well-rounded skill set that includes speed, power, and technique. He can line up at either defensive end or outside linebacker, and he is equally effective at rushing the passer and setting the edge. In his first two seasons at Georgia, Smith has recorded 21 tackles for loss and 11 sacks.
| Player | Position | College |
|---|---|---|
| Myles Murphy | Edge rusher | Clemson |
| Shemar Stewart | Edge rusher | Texas |
| Nolan Smith | Edge rusher | Georgia |
Targeting Elite Secondary Talent
The Steelers have a long and proud tradition of fielding a dominant defense, and their secondary has been a key part of that success. In recent years, however, the Steelers secondary has struggled, and they will need to add some elite talent to the unit in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Cornerback: Will Johnson or Kelvin Banks
The Steelers need to find a true shutdown cornerback, and they could do so by selecting Will Johnson or Kelvin Banks in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Johnson is a physical specimen with great size and athleticism, and he has the potential to be a dominant force in the NFL. Banks is a more polished player, and he has the instincts and ball skills to be a top-flight cornerback. Either player would be a great addition to the Steelers secondary.
| Will Johnson | Kelvin Banks | |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 6’3″ | 6’0″ |
| Weight | 205 lbs | 190 lbs |
| 40-yard dash | 4.45 seconds | 4.52 seconds |
| Vertical jump | 38 inches | 37 inches |
| Broad jump | 10’6″ | 10’2″ |
Filling the Quarterback Vacuum
The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a major question mark at the quarterback position heading into the 2025 season. With Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement and Mason Rudolph’s inconsistent play, the team is in dire need of a franchise quarterback to lead them into the future.
Evaluating the Current Options
Currently, the Steelers have three quarterbacks on their roster: Rudolph, Dwayne Haskins, and Joshua Dobbs. Rudolph is a veteran with some starting experience, but he has yet to prove he can be a consistent performer. Haskins and Dobbs are both unproven commodities with limited NFL experience.
Draft Prospects
The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to feature a strong class of quarterback prospects. The Steelers could consider targeting one of the following players with their first-round pick:
| Player | College | Projected Round |
|---|---|---|
| Arch Manning | Texas | 1st |
| Cade Klubnik | Clemson | 1st |
| Dante Moore | Michigan | 2nd |
| Drew Allar | Penn State | 2nd |
Free Agent Market
If the Steelers miss out on a quarterback in the draft, they could explore the free agent market. However, there are limited quality options available at the position in 2025. One possible target could be Derek Carr, who may be available if the Las Vegas Raiders decide to part ways with him.
Trade Possibilities
The Steelers could also attempt to trade for a quarterback. However, the cost of acquiring a top-tier quarterback is typically very high, and it is unclear if the Steelers have the assets to pull off such a move.
Adding Depth to the Offensive Line
The Steelers lack depth and experience on their offensive line, making it a priority in the 2025 NFL Draft. Here are some potential targets for Pittsburgh:
6. Nolan McConnell, G, Louisville
McConnell is an athletic and versatile offensive lineman who stands at 6’4″ and weighs 300 lbs. He possesses excellent size and strength, making him a formidable force in both the running and passing game. McConnell has quick feet and agility, allowing him to effectively block defenders in space and create running lanes. In the 2023 season, he was named to the All-ACC Second Team and helped Louisville’s offense rank 10th nationally in rushing yards per game.
McConnell’s exceptional pass-blocking skills are equally impressive. He has a strong understanding of angles and leverage, enabling him to neutralize opposing pass rushers. His powerful base and quick hands make it difficult for defenders to penetrate the line and disrupt the quarterback’s rhythm. McConnell’s ability to protect the passer would be a valuable asset to the Steelers’ offense, which has struggled to keep its quarterbacks upright in recent seasons.
McConnell’s athleticism and versatility make him a perfect fit for Pittsburgh’s zone-blocking scheme. He has the mobility to pull and lead the way for the running backs, while his strength and anchoring ability allow him to hold his ground against bull rushes in the interior.
| Player | Position | School | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nolan McConnell | Guard | Louisville | 6’4″ | 300 lbs |
Searching for Explosive Receivers
The Steelers have struggled to find a consistent playmaker at the receiver position in recent years. In 2025, they will look to add a dynamic threat to their offense. With several talented receivers available in the draft, they have a good chance of finding a player who can make an immediate impact.
7. Evan Stewart, WR, Texas A&M
Evan Stewart is a 6’2″, 200-pound receiver who is considered one of the best prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. He has a unique combination of size, speed, and athleticism. Stewart is a deep threat who can also make plays over the middle of the field. He is also a willing blocker, which is a valuable trait for any receiver.
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
Bolstering the Tight End Corps
The Steelers’ tight end position has been a revolving door in recent years, with no consistent performer emerging. In 2023, Pat Freiermuth took a step forward, but he is still prone to inconsistency. The team lacks depth behind him, with Zach Gentry and Connor Heyward failing to make a significant impact.
Drafting a Tight End in the Mid-Rounds
In this mock draft, the Steelers select Washington’s Cade Otton in the second round with the 33rd overall pick. Otton is a well-rounded tight end with good size (6’4″, 246 lbs), strong blocking skills, and reliable hands. He had a breakout season in 2022, catching 59 passes for 666 yards and six touchdowns. With his combination of size, athleticism, and receiving ability, Otton has the potential to develop into a top-10 tight end in the NFL.
Another option for the Steelers in the second round is Notre Dame’s Michael Mayer. Mayer is a bit smaller than Otton (6’4″, 245 lbs), but he is an excellent pass-catcher with soft hands and good body control. He is also a willing blocker and has the potential to be an impact player in the NFL.
Table of Potential Draft Picks
| Round | Pick | Player | Position | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 33 | Cade Otton | TE | Washington |
| 2 | 52 | Michael Mayer | TE | Notre Dame |
| 3 | 84 | Luke Musgrave | TE | Oregon |
Defensive Line Domination
The Steelers’ defensive line has been a major weakness in recent years, but that could all change in 2025 with the addition of some top-tier talent in the NFL draft. Here are three players who could help the Steelers become a force to be reckoned with on the defensive side of the ball.
9. Bryce Anderson, DL, Texas A&M
Anderson is a 6-foot-4, 290-pound defensive lineman who has been a force for the Texas A&M Aggies. He is a disruptive force in the backfield, with 15.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks in 2022. Anderson is also a strong run defender, with 46 tackles in 2022. He is a versatile player who can line up at either defensive end or defensive tackle. Anderson is a rising star and could be a steal for the Steelers at pick No. 9.
Here is a table summarizing Anderson’s stats from the 2022 season:
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Tackles | 46 |
| Tackles for Loss | 15.5 |
| Sacks | 7.5 |
Unlocking the Potential of Linebackers
The Pittsburgh Steelers linebacking corps faces a critical juncture in the 2025 NFL Draft. With the departure of veteran stalwarts, the team must seek reinforcements to revitalize this crucial unit. Several top prospects enter the draft with the skillset and potential to elevate the Steelers’ defense.
Assessing the Linebacker Landscape
The Steelers currently possess a mixed bag of linebackers. T.J. Watt remains a dominant force, but his health is a concern. Devin Bush has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency. Myles Jack and Robert Spillane provide depth, but their ceiling may be limited.
Top Linebacker Prospects
The 2025 NFL Draft offers several intriguing linebacker prospects who could address the Steelers’ needs. These players possess exceptional athleticism, instincts, and a relentless pursuit of the football:
1. Harold Perkins (LSU): A dynamic playmaker with exceptional speed and agility. Perkins makes plays all over the field, excelling in pass coverage and run support.
2. Shemar Stewart (Texas): A physical specimen with impressive size and athleticism. Stewart is a versatile defender who can excel both in the box and on the edge.
3. Jeremiah Alexander (Alabama): A cerebral and instinctual leader. Alexander possesses a keen understanding of the game and can rally his teammates effectively.
4. Domani Jackson (Southern California): A versatile and athletic defender with the ability to play multiple positions. Jackson’s coverage skills are exceptional, making him a valuable asset in the modern NFL.
5. David Bailey (Stanford): A hard-hitting and physical defender with a relentless motor. Bailey excels in run defense and provides a solid presence against the pass.
| Prospect | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Harold Perkins | Exceptional speed and agility | Size |
| Shemar Stewart | Size and athleticism | Pass coverage instincts |
| Jeremiah Alexander | Intelligence and leadership | Physical limitations |
| Domani Jackson | Coverage skills | Run defense |
| David Bailey | Physicality and motor | Coverage range |
2025 STEELERS MOCK DRAFT
The 2025 NFL Draft is still a long way away, but it’s never too early to start looking ahead. The Pittsburgh Steelers are coming off a disappointing season in 2022, and they will need to make some changes to their roster if they want to compete for a Super Bowl in 2023. Here is a look at a potential mock draft for the Steelers in 2025.
- 1st Round: Cade Klubnik QB/Clemson
- 2nd Round: Shemar Stewart EDGE/Texas
- 3rd Round: Jaheim Oatis DL/Alabama
- 4th Round: Jaren Kanak CB/Oklahoma
- 5th Round: Evan Hull RB/Northwestern
- 6th Round: Blake Freeland OT/ BYU
- 7th Round: Joshua Josephs S/Tennessee
PEOPLE ALSO ASK ABOUT 2025 STEELERS MOCK DRAFT
Who do the Steelers need to draft in the 2025 NFL Draft?
The Steelers need to address several positions in the 2025 NFL Draft, including quarterback, edge rusher, and offensive tackle. They also need to add some depth to their secondary and running back positions.
Who is the best quarterback prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft?
Cade Klubnik is the best quarterback prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. He is a 5-star recruit who has committed to Clemson. Klubnik is a pro-style quarterback with a strong arm and good accuracy. He is also a good athlete who can run and make plays with his legs.
Who is the best edge rusher prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft?
Shemar Stewart is the best edge rusher prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. He is a 5-star recruit who has committed to Texas. Stewart is a physical specimen with a great combination of size, strength, and speed. He is also a good pass rusher who can get to the quarterback.
