Steelers Fans Should Be Ecstatic About Drafting Jackson Powers-Johnson If They Can At 20 “Unless He’s A Closet Serial Killer”

The Pittsburgh Steelers hold the 20th overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. Though there's no clear indication of what their plan is, we do know that they are in need of a new starting center. This is due to the recent release of Mason Cole, the struggling center who previously held that position.

Two standout names have consistently emerged in Steelers mock drafts, particularly in discussions about centers. These individuals showcase exceptional talent and have garnered significant acclaim from draft pundits. Zach Frazier, hailing from West Virginia University, and Jackson Powers-Johnson, representing Oregon, have both captured attention with their impressive skills and potential.

Frazier and Powers-Johnson are the two most prominent center prospects in the draft. While the Steelers may consider selecting Frazier in the second round, one NFL Draft analyst believes they should take the risk and draft Powers-Johnson in the first round.

According to Ryan Wilson of CBS Sports, Powers-Johnson is highly regarded. He is being considered as a potential pick for the Steelers, as per Wilson's mock draft. Recently, Wilson appeared on 93.7 The Fan alongside Andrew Fillipponi and Chris Mueller to discuss how Steelers fans should feel about drafting a player of Powers-Johnson's caliber.

"Perhaps the most engaging player I've ever talked to. Steelers fans should feel about him, if he's there at 20, like they felt about Maurkice Pouncey or David DeCastro when they drafted those guys back in the day.”

Being compared to names like Maurkice Pouncey and David DeCastro carries significant weight. It's quite revealing when a pundit compares a prospect to individuals who have forged such remarkable careers, particularly someone like Pouncey, who stands as one of the greatest centers in Steelers' history.

Wilson continued his praise of Powers-Johnson, explaining how he believes he's a perfect fit for the Steelers' culture. That very culture, which was discussed as being lost, could potentially see revitalization with someone like Powers-Johnson coming in and helping to lead the resurgence of the Steeler way.

"He plays with an edge. He's incredibly smart, and he feels like a blue-collar Steeler-type player.”

Wilson was very confident that Powers-Johnson was the right choice for the Steelers at the 20th pick. He was absolutely impressed with everything about him. Wilson didn't see any red flags unless Powers-Johnson was hiding something, which he mentioned as a joke.

"I don't know what the holes in his game are unless he's a closet serial killer."

The recipient of the prestigious Rimington Trophy, awarded to the nation's top center, Powers-Johnson, stands out as a prominent prospect worth monitoring closely. With the Steelers actively seeking their next anchor at center, akin to the caliber of a Pouncey, the spotlight naturally gravitates towards talents like Powers-Johnson. 

Renowned for his ability to assert dominance on the line of scrimmage, seamlessly integrate into the team culture, demonstrate unwavering commitment, and dedicate himself wholeheartedly to the Steel City cause, Powers-Johnson emerges as a compelling contender. Amidst the search for a player who embodies the essence of Pittsburgh's football ethos, the Oregon center emerges as a prime candidate poised to make a significant impact.

Steelers In Need Of Consistent Center Play

During the 2023 season, the Steelers faced significant challenges on the offensive side of the football, with one of their primary struggles revolving around effectively getting the ball into the hands of the quarterback. This issue was exacerbated by difficulties with the center position, particularly with the performance of Cole, whose struggles with snapping the football efficiently ultimately led to his release from the team.

The Steelers' offensive woes prompted significant changes within the coaching staff, with the arrival of Arthur Smith as the new offensive coordinator. Smith's appointment brings anticipation for strategic shifts and innovative approaches to revitalize the Steelers' offensive gameplay. As the team transitions under Smith's leadership, there is hope for improved efficiency and effectiveness in executing plays, particularly in addressing the challenges encountered during the 2023 season.

The Steelers will rely heavily on the ground game with talented running backs like Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. It is going to be pivotal for the Steelers to have an anchor leading the way. The Steelers could find their next center through the draft or free agency. It'll be interesting to see who is the man snapping the football in 2024.

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