As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, all eyes are on their 20th pick in the first round, sparking intense speculation about their strategy. While many anticipate a focus on the offensive line, particularly at center, others suggest the team may opt for an offensive tackle to further fortify their front.
Karl Hodges / UGA Athletics
Georgia tackle Amarius Mims smiles during a game in college.
However, the mystery surrounding the Steelers' intentions remains, with the potential for swift shifts in their draft plans. Amidst this uncertainty, ESPN staff writer Bill Barnwell weighs in with his own perspective. In his recent analysis covering all 32 NFL teams, Barnwell suggests that the Steelers should entertain the idea of trading down from their 20th pick.
“The Steelers are perilously thin at cornerback, wide receiver and along the offensive line. They fielded the oldest defense in football last season, and while they moved on from corner[back] Patrick Peterson, there are five starters on that side of the ball who will be on the wrong side of 30 by the end of the season. Pittsburgh is still great at drafting and developing homegrown defensive talent, as we saw with defensive tackle Keeanu Benton and corner[back] Joey Porter Jr. last year; they just need more of it.”
While Barnwell expresses confidence in the notion that the Steelers should trade down from their first-round pick, his analysis stems from the belief that the talent available at the 20th spot may not warrant its use. Instead, he suggests that the Steelers could benefit from trading down to accumulate more picks and target talent in the later rounds. This strategic move, according to Barnwell, might offer the team a better opportunity to bolster their roster with promising players long-term.
“The other position the Steelers are predicted to address most often in mock drafts is the interior of their offensive line, where center Mason Cole was released this offseason. They can hit center later in this draft, and adding extra picks would allow them to both add a pivot and much-needed defensive depth.”
Barnwell underscores the Steelers' recent track record of success in drafting defensive talent, citing the acquisition of Joey Porter Jr. in the second round of the 2023 draft as a prime example. Porter made an immediate impact as a rookie, impressing with his ability to shadow opposing teams' star wide receivers. His performance demonstrated significant promise for the Steelers, reflecting their adeptness in identifying and developing young defensive talent.
ESPN
Steelers' Joey Porter Jr. runs with the football after getting an interception.
Despite boasting the highest-paid defense in the NFL, Barnwell raises concerns about the Steelers' aging roster on that side of the ball. He believes that addressing this issue requires a proactive approach, such as trading down in the draft to secure more opportunities to cultivate young talent. By replenishing their roster with emerging players, the Steelers can ensure the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of their defense while navigating the challenges posed by the inevitable aging of key contributors.
Steelers Have Some Pressing Needs To Address In The Draft
As Barnwell aptly pointed out, the Steelers face multiple areas of concern, particularly in their cornerback depth, offensive line, and the critical need for a reliable center. Additionally, the team is eager to bolster their wide receiver corps. Among these positions, center and wide receiver emerge as the most pressing priorities.
Getty Images
Former Steelers' center, Mason Cole during a game on the road.
Securing a wide receiver capable of stepping in as a starter and making meaningful contributions from day one is paramount. Likewise, the Steelers require a center who can seamlessly transition into the starting role, especially following the release of Mason Cole, leaving a notable gap in the roster at that position. The absence of a trusted center currently on the roster only heightens the urgency to address this need effectively.
In light of these pressing needs, Barnwell's suggestion to trade down in the draft gains further credence. By accumulating additional picks, the Steelers can enhance their chances of acquiring talent that fits their roster requirements across multiple positions. With the draft looming, Steelers fans eagerly anticipate the unveiling of the team's new additions, hopeful that they will address these crucial areas and contribute to the team's success in the upcoming season.
#SteelerNation
