The Steelers And Omar Khan Need To Have A Similar Draft To The Team's 2002 Impressive Selections

There have been a lot of great drafts for the Pittsburgh Steelers over the years. Known as a franchise that builds from within rather than spending big money on outside free agents, fans should expect the organization to probably continue that trend during the 2023 offseason. With four selections in the top 80 picks, it will be pivotal to address specific needs that can come in right away and make an impact. 

Taking a look back at the 2002 NFL Draft, then-general manager, Kevin Colbert aced the draft and it just so happens he went after positions years ago that the team needs in the present day.

In 2023, Pittsburgh needs help in several areas including both lines, the linebacker and defensive back positions, as well as wide receiver. If new general manager, Omar Khan can have a draft in April similar to the one Colbert had over 20 years ago, the team will be in great shape going forward.

Beginning on the offensive line, it's no secret that the team may go after someone who can start right away on the left side. It's anyone's guess as to whether that will be a left tackle or guard, but Dan Moore Jr. and Kevin Dotson's jobs are far from safe after inconsistent play the last two seasons.

In 2002, Colbert drafted a future two-time Super Bowl champion (as most of the guys in the class ended up being) selecting Kendall Simmons in the first round. He was never a Pro Bowl-type player, but started all four playoff games in 2006, while missing only four regular season games from 2002-2007. 

Next up came Antwaan Randle El in round two. A perfect compliment to Hines Ward and Plaxico Burress at the time, he ended up shining bright in key moments for the franchise, including his unforgettable touchdown pass to Ward in Super Bowl XL. The wide receiver room is light and despite Calvin Austin III's expected return, selecting a player who has a future impact like Randle El did wouldn't be a bad thing.

Chris Hope came along in the third round and while he was only with the Steelers for his rookie contract, was a pivotal defensive piece during the 2005 season with three interceptions. Often an overlooked player due to his partner in crime, Troy Polamalu's dominance, Hope started all 32 regular season games his final two years with the team and had five passes defended during the 2005-'06 Super Bowl run.

Think it stops there? It doesn't. Colbert went after inside linebacker, Larry Foote in the fourth round back in 2002. Foote started every single regular season game from 2004 to 2008 and his consistency was just another advantage for an already stacked defense during those years. 

It sure would be nice to steal a great leader and reliable linebacker in the fourth round in April of 2023. He had an interception in both playoff years that ended with a Super Bowl ring.

Steelers, Colbert Found A Hidden Gem In The Seventh Round

Now, let's fast forward to the seventh round. Colbert may have had no clue he was drafting a future fan favorite in Brett Keisel. 'Da Beard' finished his career with 30 total sacks and two Super Bowl rings. He spent 13 seasons with the Steelers, starting a total of 114 games and was a consistent piece on the defensive line for so long.

Colbert ended up addressing every area of need that the team didn't just need back then, but also happens to need in 2023. Five players had solid careers and contributed to Super Bowl victories. 

None are Hall of Famers, but if Khan can have a successful go at it this year and address the offensive and defensive lines, grab a nifty wide receiver while also selecting a solid inside linebacker and bolstering the secondary, it'd be reminiscent of nearly 20 years ago when a future championship roster was in the process of being built. 

Do you think the Steelers could use another draft like 2002 in 2023? Let us know in the comments below!

#SteelerNation