Steelers Quietly Eyeing 3 Shocking Sleeper Picks In Round 1 Of 2025 NFL Draft

The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2025 NFL Draft plans have been beaten and speculated to death at this point. With the draft inching closer with each passing day, Steelers fans are very curious to see how it unfolds. This will be General Manager Omar Khan's third draft, and so far he's done pretty well overall in his first two drafts. Khan and the Steelers will look to continue that magic by drafting incredible value and talent starting Thursday, April 24. The consensus prediction seems to be the Steelers going defensive line at 21st overall in this draft. However, if the Steelers did have some sleeper picks that may shock some fans, Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo is on it. He believes there are three players that Steelers fans should keep their eyes on in Round 1.

Fittipaldo hasn’t revealed any names with absolute certainty, but he’s hinted that Pittsburgh may be higher on a few under-the-radar prospects than the rest of the league. While most of the attention has been on high-profile defensive linemen, the Steelers could pivot to a surprise position or a lesser-known name that fits their scheme and long-term vision. Historically, Pittsburgh isn’t afraid to make bold draft-day decisions, and Khan has already shown he’s willing to zig when others zag.

Whether it’s a dynamic defensive back, a versatile hybrid linebacker, or even a skill position player that hasn’t been heavily mocked in Round 1, the Steelers may be preparing to surprise everyone. If Fittipaldo’s hints are accurate, that he revealed in his Steelers chat Tuesday, fans should brace for a potential curveball on draft night. One thing’s for sure—if Khan sees value, he’ll take it, even if it defies expectations.

"I don't know what to make of Shemar Stewart and Nick Emmanwori coming in for visits," Fittipaldo said. "If I had to pick a sleeper it would be one of those two or Matthew Golden at No. 21. Otherwise, I think it will be DL."

From the sound of it, if Fittipaldo had to place a wager on what the Steelers will do with the 21st pick, he’d bet on them taking a defensive lineman. That prediction aligns with the consensus, but as always, how the first 20 selections unfold will heavily influence Pittsburgh's direction. Still, Fittipaldo believes there are three sleeper prospects the Steelers could be eyeing if things shake out differently—wide receiver Matthew Golden from Texas, edge rusher Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M, and safety Nick Emmanwori from South Carolina.

The most intriguing wild card would be quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Early projections had Sanders off the board well before the Steelers' pick at 21, but recent developments have shifted expectations slightly. While buzz has cooled on him slipping far enough to fall into Pittsburgh’s lap, the door isn’t completely shut. If Sanders begins to slide, don’t rule out the possibility of the Steelers making a bold move to trade up and secure a potential franchise quarterback.

Steelers Keep Everyone Guessing As Omar Khan And Mike Tomlin Stay Silent

Adding Sanders would be a franchise-altering decision and one that could shake up the entire first round. While it's still unlikely, the mere possibility keeps things interesting. Whether the Steelers stay put at 21 or shake things up with a surprise move, Khan and Mike Tomlin are keeping their cards close to the chest—and fans are eager to see what hand they play on draft night.

As with every draft, there’s immense pressure to get each pick right. The age-old debate between selecting the best player available or addressing a positional need continues to shape draft rooms across the league—and Pittsburgh is no exception. The Steelers will need to carefully balance value and need as they navigate the complexities of yet another high-stakes draft. For Khan, it’s another opportunity to put his stamp on the proud legacy of Steelers drafting excellence.

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