Pittsburgh Steelers (Last Year: 10-7)
Goals Entering the 2025 NFL Draft: The Steelers don’t have a quarterback, so they can end the Aaron Rodgers drama by using an early draft pick on the position. The Steelers also need a new running back to replace Najee Harris. Various parts of the defense must also be upgraded.
2025 NFL Draft Accomplishments: Most dumb ESPN viewers believed that the Steelers would draft Shedeur Sanders at No. 21 overall, but it was widely reported by accurate media personnel that Pittsburgh had no interest in the Colorado quarterback. Thus, it was no surprise to intelligent football fans that the Steelers selected a defensive tackle with their opening-round choice. Derrick Harmon is incredibly athletic and should be a good replacement for Cameron Heyward down the road.
The Steelers once again passed on Sanders, as doing so appeased Aaron Rodgers, who will likely be signing with the Steelers in the near future. Pittsburgh addressed its backfield with the next pick, but did so with a running back. Kaleb Johnson could have easily gone in the second round, so he was a steal. Pittsburgh continued to find tremendous bargains throughout the weekend, particularly with Jack Sawyer in the fourth round.
Pittsburgh didn’t land a quarterback until the sixth round, taking Will Howard there. I’m not high on Howard, but the sixth round is just about right for the national champion. I wasn’t a fan of the selection, and yet the “B” it earned was Pittsburgh’s lowest-graded pick in the first six rounds.
The Steelers had a terrific draft. The only criticism is that the front office didn’t find a more viable quarterback of the future sooner – the fourth round with Sanders or someone else would have been ideal – but there’s no doubt that this draft class will improve the roster this upcoming season.
NFL Draft Individual Grades:
21. Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon – A Grade
Derrick Harmon is an extremely athletic and talented defensive lineman. The Steelers were hoping he would fall to them so he could replace Cameron Heyward. He comes with some medical concerns, but the Steelers are OK with his medical, so this selection makes sense. It must be noted that this wasn’t Shedeur Sanders, which is fine because it means that Aaron Rodgers is likely to sign with the team. Pittsburgh is expected to draft a quarterback in Round 4 and perhaps one in 2026 or 2027.
83. Kaleb Johnson, RB, Iowa – A+ Grade
The Steelers addressed their backfield, but not with Shedeur Sanders. They couldn’t risk offending Aaron Rodgers here, however, so they had to go with a running back, given their need at the position. Kaleb Johnson is an excellent running back prospect who should have gone in the second round.
123. Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio State – A+ Grade
A highly thought-of player falling to Round 4? An investigation is needed. It’s absurd that Jack Sawyer fell this far. He’s not an amazing athlete, but he has a relentless motor. He was obviously insanely productive in school and should do well in Pittsburgh.
164. Yahya Black, NT, Iowa – B+ Grade
I had the Steelers drafting Yahya Black around this spot. It makes sense, as Black is a big run stuffer. He won’t produce much as a pass rusher, but he’ll have a role with Pittsburgh to help clamp down on Derrick Henry.
185. Will Howard, QB, Ohio State – B Grade
Will Howard had an amazing season for the national champion Buckeyes. He was a clutch thrower who showed good mobility. However, he was one of the worst passers at the combine and doesn’t seem like a viable NFL quarterback. Still, he’s worth a shot here in the sixth round.
226. Carson Bruener, LB, Washington – B- Grade
Carson Bruener was a borderline draftable prospect. He needs to pack on weight and get stronger for the NFL. He might be a career special-teamer.
229. Donte Kent, CB, Central Michigan – C Grade
I didn’t have Donte Kent on my radar at all. I didn’t see anyone have him as a draftable prospect. I assume this is just for special teams.
Follow me @walterfootball for updates.
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