With the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaching, the Pittsburgh Steelers are actively preparing options that could significantly shape the future of their franchise. The team's strategic approach to the draft has become a subject of intense speculation, particularly concerning the crucial vacancy at the starting quarterback position. Various reports and rumors have circulated, with some suggesting the Steelers will prioritize drafting a quarterback to fill the void. Others speculate that the team's focus will be on bolstering their defensive line. However, amidst this sea of conflicting opinions, one insider has emerged with a distinct perspective, offering a different take on the Steelers' potential draft strategy.
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The Pittsburgh Steelers take part in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Gerry Dulac, a columnist for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, recently provided viewers with valuable insights into the Steelers' potential draft strategies for the upcoming NFL selection process. In his analysis, Dulac shared a message that offered a clearer picture of the team's likely priorities and considerations as they prepare to make their selections. His perspective, grounded in his extensive coverage of the Steelers, shed light on the team's current needs and the types of players they might be targeting. In response to a question regarding the possibility of the Steelers selecting a running back in the first round of the upcoming NFL Draft, Dulac offered the following take.
"I have been told not to rule out 1st round," Dulac answered.
Like many teams across the NFL, the Steelers are currently looking to address various positional needs, attempting to strengthen their roster through both the free agency market and the upcoming NFL Draft. The Steelers' draft capital, which has been changed due to previous trades, presents a dynamic situation. Some picks have been lost, while others have been acquired, resulting in a current total of six draft selections. This configuration of draft picks requires careful consideration and strategic planning as the Steelers aim to maximize their opportunities to acquire talented players and fill critical gaps within their team.
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Steelers' DK Metcalf looks on during a game with his former team the Seattle Seahawks.
In the first round, they hold the 21st overall selection. However, the Steelers will not be making a selection in the second round, a consequence of the trade that brought wide receiver DK Metcalf to the team. In the third round, they possess the 19th pick of that round, which is the 83rd overall selection. Moving to the fourth round, the Steelers are slated to pick 21st in that round, or 123rd overall. Their fifth-round pick is the 20th of that round, the 156th overall selection. In the sixth round, they hold the 9th pick, or 185th overall, another pick that resulted from the Metcalf trade. Finally, the Steelers will make a selection in the seventh round, holding the 13th pick of that round, which is the 229th overall pick. This final pick was acquired through a trade with Atlanta, facilitated by the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Steelers are entering the upcoming season facing a significant change in their offensive backfield, as their former starting running back, Najee Harris, has left the team, signing with the Los Angeles Chargers during this free agency period. While the Steelers still have Jaylen Warren, and have also signed former Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell, the possibility of the team drafting an additional running back remains a viable option. This potential move is further fueled by reports indicating that Head Coach Mike Tomlin has been actively attending multiple Pro Days, closely observing and evaluating several highly regarded running back prospects. Tomlin's presence at these events suggests a keen interest in potentially adding to the running back depth. The Steelers may want to add a young running back to their roster, despite the recent signing of Gainwell.
The Steelers Have Many Options For The Draft
The Steelers continue to combat with a significant void in their roster: the quarterback position. Reports consistently indicate the team's intention to address this need by selecting a quarterback either in this year's draft or the next. While the Steelers possess several draft picks, the first-round selection carries paramount importance.
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Steelers General Manager Omar Khan picks up the phone in the team's war room during the 2023 NFL Draft weekend.
The absence of a second-round pick creates a substantial gap following their initial choice, placing added pressure on the first-round decision. Although talent exists throughout the draft, the Steelers must prioritize identifying a player who not only possesses the necessary skills, but also aligns with their team's culture and long-term vision. The Steelers are looking to find a quarterback to lead the franchise into the future.
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