The Pittsburgh Steelers are uncertain about who will be their quarterback. Does that alter their NFL Draft strategies?
PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers remain uncertain about Aaron Rodgers’ potential signing or whether he is even interested in joining them. Following his initial public appearance of the offseason on the Pat McAfee Show, the uncertainty surrounding whether he’ll join the Steelers appears greater, perhaps even less probable. Therefore, does that alter their NFL Draft strategies? Perhaps, but likely not by a significant amount. As they approach draft week without Rodgers, this is how their 2025 class might unfold.
Round 1, Selection 21: Derrick Harmon, Defensive Tackle, Oregon
The Steelers are primarily focused on defensive tackle as the NFL Draft approaches. In the initial round, four names that stand out are Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant, Walter Nolen, and Derrick Harmon. As the time approaches, it seems that either Grant or Harmon will be chosen, with Harmon having the slight advantage due to his immediate potential in pass rushing and his capability to stop the run. The Oregon standout has drawn comparisons to Cameron Heyward and can play either the nose tackle or defensive tackle role for the Steelers. At the start of the offseason, they mentioned their desire to create a youth movement on the defensive line. They have not altered that viewpoint as they approach the last few days.
Round 3, Selection 83: Quinn Ewers, Quarterback, Texas
Quarterback ranks high on the Steelers’ agenda, and although it may not be prioritized as much as running back or wide receiver, the skill and potential must align with the selection. The Steelers are uncertain about Rodgers’ arrival, so delaying their decision will restrict their choices behind Mason Rudolph this summer. Pittsburgh has shown interest in Ewers during the scouting process, as the Texas quarterback performed well at the NFL Combine and subsequently met with the team leading up to his Pro Day. The league holds Ewers in higher regard than many fans do, indicating that if Pittsburgh desires him, they must act sooner rather than later.
Round 4, Selection 123: Savion Williams, Wide Receiver, TCU
It’s uncertain whether the Steelers will manage to retain both DK Metcalf and George Pickens. They want to, but that doesn’t imply that compensating Metcalf while unable to pay Pickens will result in smiles and acceptance from the player or agent. Pittsburgh must get ready for situations to not go as planned. They cannot see themselves in the same situation as last year, and Williams has significant potential, possibly contributing during his initial year. The Steelers should be optimistic about Calvin Austin and Roman Wilson’s development, but Williams offers outside play with significant potential this season, if required.
Round 5, Selection 156: DJ Giddens, Running Back, Kansas State
The Steelers are likely to select a running back in the draft. Their interest has spanned from Omarion Hampton and Trey Henderson in the first round to mid-round selections such as DJ Giddens.
You can’t dismiss anyone, but given how the board is expected to shape up, Pittsburgh can afford to wait and select a player they think still possesses star potential in the draft’s middle rounds.
Giddens has the ability to make big plays whenever he gets the ball, complementing perfectly the skills that both Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell offer to the backfield.
A trend appears to be emerging, and following four years with Najee Harris, they are seeking explosive running backs, bringing in Giddens as another option.
Round 6, Selection 185: Donovan McMillon, Defensive Back, Pitt
The Steelers have displayed a considerable level of interest in safeties during this NFL Draft period. One of those safeties is Donovan McMillon from Pitt, regarded as one of the top late-round talents in the class, possessing a great deal of untapped ability. The Steelers are uncertain about Ryan Watts’ future and must plan for what lies ahead since both DeShon Elliott and Juan Thornhill are on one-year contracts while Minkah Fitzpatrick has two years remaining.
McMillion is a player they invited for a local visit and who made a strong impression at his Pro Day. If they plan to select a defensive back, it’s likely to happen late, and the nearby safety could be their top choice.
Round 7, Selection 229: Jalen Travis, Offensive Tackle, Iowa State
The Steelers are beginning to enhance their offensive line depth, which includes signing Calvin Anderson. However, they must develop a genuine swing tackle, and they are already focusing on youth. They could easily keep that trend going and include another tackle in this year’s draft class.
Travis lacks early career upside, yet he might develop into a Spender Anderson type, serving as a valuable, youthful depth player. The Steelers haven’t dedicated much effort to that position this offseason and may continue to include lesser-known players in the draft.