The Pittsburgh Steelers hold the 20th overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. Their strategy for the first round remains uncertain, with various possibilities on the table. However, the team's pressing needs are evident. As Steeler Nation awaits the outcomes of free agency, a clearer picture will emerge regarding their draft intentions.
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The Pittsburgh Steelers selected quarterback Kenny Pickett with the 20th pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Renowned NFL Draft analyst, Mel Kiper Jr., known for his insights involving all things related to the draft, made an appearance on ESPN's Fantasy Focus Live. Just as the show was concluding, he was prompted to discuss the Steelers' significant move in signing Russell Wilson. This prompted Kiper to delve into a detailed analysis of his projections for the Steelers' potential choices with their first-round draft pick.
"Graham Barton is a guy in that particular spot, would be a guy that could anchor that line. Played some center early on at Duke. I loved him, he's got that ability, he could have been a guy. He reminds you kind of a Wisconsin Badger offensive lineman at Duke. Smart, versatile, comes in ready to go from a fundamental, technique standpoint. Graham Barton, I think would make an awful lot of sense.”
Graham Barton, the formidable offensive lineman standing at 6' 5" and weighing 314 pounds, from Duke University. He is the foremost candidate that caught Kiper's attention. Barton currently holds the prestigious top spot on Kiper's big board rankings for centers in the upcoming draft. The Steelers released their starting center Mason Cole early into the offseason and are in need of someone to anchor their offensive line. Kiper believes Barton is that guy.
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Duke offensive lineman, Graham Barton.
Kiper didn’t stop at just the offensive line as a position the Steelers are targeting in the draft.
"I think a Nate Wiggins at Clemson, a Cooper DeJean at lowa, somebody like that. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Ok, if Terrion Arnold gets down that far. Cornerback's gotta be in the mix for the Pittsburgh Steelers.”
Kiper's analysis reveals that the Steelers are exploring cornerback prospects as well, building on their 2023 selection of Joey Porter Jr. He emphasized the importance of seizing the opportunity to draft a top cornerback if available. Additionally, Kiper highlighted other intriguing options at the center position that the Steelers should keep a close eye on.
"Certainly a guy like Graham Barton, or Jackson Powers-Johnson, a[n] Oregon kid, or maybe a Zach Frazier at West Virginia. But I think Graham Barton is gonna go somewhere in that 20-38 range, in that area, and cornerback's a key need area as well for the Pittsburgh Steelers, as I said."
The Steelers have been linked to several centers in mock drafts, with Zach Frazier and Jackson Powers-Johnson emerging as popular choices. However, Kiper has introduced a new name into the mix: Barton. While not exactly a hidden gem, Barton differs from the players currently associated with the Steelers draft projections. Yet, Kiper's enthusiasm for Barton's abilities raises speculation about the Steelers' possibly having some interest in the Duke prospect.
Steelers’ 2024 Offseason Off To A Hot Start And It’s Not Over
The 2024 free agency period kicked off with a bang as the Steelers made waves by securing Wilson as their new quarterback. While addressing the quarterback position was crucial, this move also frees up significant funds for the team to bolster other areas and strengthen their overall roster.
The Steelers have pressing needs in their secondary, particularly at safety and cornerback, where they require additional depth. Additionally, there's an urgent necessity for a reliable center to fortify their offensive line.
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Steelers QB Russell Wilson (3) playing as a member of the Denver Broncos.
Acquiring Wilson for the veteran minimum for just one year is undoubtedly thrilling. However, it puts immense pressure on the Steelers to maximize their efforts and resources for the 2024 season. With Wilson at quarterback, they must assemble a formidable roster to optimize their chances of success. Beyond 2024, managing Wilson's contract will pose greater challenges and undoubtedly incur higher costs should the Steelers attempt to bring him back past one year.
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