Steelers Had 2 Other Offensive Linemen They Were Ready To Draft If Troy Fautanu Was Gone

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a strategic move during the 2024 NFL Draft, using their 20th overall pick to select Troy Fautanu, an offensive tackle hailing from Washington. While some speculated about his versatility, considering the possibility of him playing center, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin swiftly clarified that Fautanu is intended for the tackle position.

The selection received a commendable grade of 86 from the Next Gen Sports grading system, earning nods of approval from many fans. Yet, as with any draft pick, there are dissenting voices. Nonetheless, the Steelers addressed a crucial need by bolstering their offensive line in the first round.

Insider insights from Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette shed light on the Steelers' decision-making process. Despite having alternative plans, they ultimately prioritized Fautanu due to their assessment, ranking him as the 10th best prospect overall. This choice was perceived as securing excellent value for the team at the 20th spot.

According to Dulac, the Steelers initially had their sights set on Graham Barton, the versatile center/offensive tackle from Duke, as well as Tyler Guyton, an offensive tackle standout from Oklahoma. Their clear objective in the first round was to secure an offensive lineman, particularly a tackle. However, as deliberations progressed, the combination of their draft board's value and pressing positional needs led them to the opportunity presented by Fautanu, which they couldn't resist.

This strategic move injects anticipation into the upcoming season as fans eagerly await to see how the Steelers integrate Fautanu into their plans. Whether he earns a starting role as a rookie or follows a developmental path similar to last year's first-round tackle, Broderick Jones, remains to be seen. Nonetheless, pundits widely commend the Steelers for their decision, viewing Fautanu as a valuable addition at the 20th pick.

While the offensive line received attention in the first round, the Steelers recognize other pressing needs that must be addressed in subsequent rounds. With a keen eye on the center and wide receiver positions in the second round, they remain open to fortifying their roster in areas like cornerback, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the draft.

The big board remains stocked with numerous talented prospects awaiting the Steelers' selection. Overall, a sense of contentment pervades among many Steelers fans regarding the decision made by Omar Khan and the organization in round one. Now, the focus shifts to acquiring a center and a wide receiver capable of competing for starting roles as rookies. With a solid draft, the Steelers have the potential to ascend to the upper echelons of the league. However, given their current standing, the pressure persists, underscoring the importance of their upcoming selections.

Steelers Failed To Make A Shock In Round 1

Speculation swirled around the Steelers leading up to round one, with whispers of a major trade in the works. However, such anticipation didn't materialize, nor did the expected move to trade up the board. Consequently, the Brandon Aiyuk trade rumors may subside unless Khan can orchestrate a deal leveraging the Steelers' remaining assets. As the next few days unfold, the trajectory of the Steelers' 2024 season will begin to take shape.

Dulac's insights into the Steelers' draft strategy, particularly regarding Fautanu, offer intriguing details for Steeler Nation to digest. With anticipation building, fans eagerly await to see which new faces will join their roster in the days ahead.

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