The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2025 NFL Draft with a lot of questions about what they would use their 21st overall pick on. When the board broke and the defensive lineman they wanted, Derrick Harmon, was sitting right there, Omar Khan and Mike Tomlin knew they had to take him. There wasn't any debate about it—he was there, and the Steelers intended to get their guy to help shore up the run game. This pick underscores the Steelers' continued commitment to strengthening their trenches, both on offense and defense.
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Steelers' Derrick Harmon during his time with the Oregon Ducks in college.
With Harmon now in the fold, the Steelers turned their attention to Day 2 of the draft. The team only has one pick on the second day due to the earlier trade for wide receiver DK Metcalf, but that doesn't mean they won't make the most of it. Holding the 83rd pick in the third round, Khan and Tomlin are likely to focus on adding more depth and talent to positions of need. The Steelers have made it clear that improving their roster is a priority, and they’re looking for a player who can contribute right away.
As Steeler Nation anxiously awaits the next move, there are several prospects that should be on Pittsburgh’s radar. With limited options on Day 2, the Steelers will need to make the most of their pick, and there are plenty of explosive playmakers available. Whether it's bolstering the running back room, adding a key defensive piece, or finding another wide receiver to complement Metcalf, the Steelers will have plenty of exciting options to choose from.
The positional need at this point in the draft suggests the Steelers could be eyeing a running back. With Najee Harris gone and a deep class of backs available, Pittsburgh may look to add a young, explosive runner to pair with Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell. Sitting at pick 83, if the right value presents itself, don’t be surprised if the Steelers pull the trigger.
There are several intriguing options that could still be on the board when Pittsburgh makes its third-round selection. DJ Giddens brings power and downhill toughness, Dylan Sampson offers burst and quick-cut ability, and Kaleb Johnson flashes a balanced skill set with upside as a three-down back. Each player brings a different flavor, but all three fit the Steelers' physical offensive identity.
Any of these backs would give Pittsburgh a strong trio in the backfield and provide insurance should injuries hit or if the offense leans even more heavily on the run game in 2025. With Warren’s rise and Gainwell’s versatility, adding one of these prospects could quietly be one of the Steelers’ most impactful moves of the draft.
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Former Ohio State QB Will Howard celebrates during the National Championship.
Of course, the Steelers still need to find a young quarterback after passing on Shedeur Sanders in the first round. Will Howard and Jalen Milroe are both intriguing options, and if either is still available at pick 83, this could be the moment Pittsburgh decides to take a swing at the most important position in football.
The Steelers also have a few other directions they could go with the 83rd overall pick. With some uncertainty surrounding George Pickens’ future, they might look to add a wide receiver, and a dynamic option like Jaylin Noel could be in play. If they choose to bolster the secondary instead, cornerback Darien Porter or safety Xavier Watts are names to watch—both bring athleticism and upside to a defense that’s always looking to reload.
Steelers Likely To Draft A Running Back 83rd Overall
While those positions are certainly in the mix, the sense remains that quarterback or running back will be the primary focus at this spot. Pittsburgh has a clear need for a developmental quarterback, and a deep running back class gives them a chance to find immediate value in the third round.
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Former Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson scores a touchdown against the Washington Huskies.
Of course, how the second and early third rounds unfold will have a major impact on what the Steelers ultimately do at 83. The board could push them toward a wild card pick, but if one of their top-rated quarterbacks or running backs is still available, don’t be surprised if that’s where they go.
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