The Pittsburgh Steelers opened the 2025 NFL Draft by bolstering their defensive front, selecting Oregon standout Derrick Harmon with the 21st overall pick. Harmon brings a powerful, disruptive presence to the interior of the line and is expected to contribute immediately. With Cameron Heyward nearing the end of his career, the Steelers made a forward-thinking move to keep their defensive core strong for years to come.
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Steelers' Kaleb Johnson running in open field during a college game for Iowa.
In the third round, Pittsburgh addressed the offensive backfield by selecting Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson at pick No. 83. A tough, downhill runner with impressive burst and vision, Johnson fits the physical identity Arthur Smith is building on offense. He'll slot in behind Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell, adding needed depth and a fresh set of legs to a ground game that remains central to the Steelers’ offensive philosophy.
The biggest surprise of the night may have been Pittsburgh’s decision to pass on quarterback Shedeur Sanders—twice. Once projected as a top-five selection, Sanders has slipped into Day 3, still waiting to hear his name called. According to NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, the Steelers remain open to the idea of adding Sanders, hinting that the story between the two sides might not be over just yet.
Feels like #Steelers remain an option for Shedeur Sanders. The team is comfortable with Sanders as a distributing point guard in its offense. Not consensus on that but enough to justify taking him at some point.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) April 26, 2025
Another QB that Pittsburgh has done a lot of work on: Will Howard
The Steelers’ draft strategy so far reflects a careful balance between immediate needs and long-term planning. Rather than chasing headlines or forcing picks, Pittsburgh has stayed true to its identity—building from the inside out and emphasizing physical, high-effort players who fit the culture. It’s not flashy, but it’s calculated.
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Will Howard celebrates during the National Championship.
Still, the looming question at quarterback continues to cast a shadow over this draft class. Whether it’s Sanders, Will Howard, or another name entirely, Pittsburgh seems to be keeping its options open. That measured patience could pay off if the right value presents itself on Day 3.
With several picks still remaining, the Steelers have a real opportunity to round out the roster with complementary talent. The foundation is being laid, brick by brick, and Pittsburgh is quietly positioning itself for sustained success—not just for 2025, but for the years ahead.
Steelers Could Find Great Value At QB In Round 3
The Steelers haven’t made an early move at quarterback. Many fans were adamant that Pittsburgh should target a quarterback earlier in this draft due to the uncertainty at the position. But their approach says a lot about how confident they are in Aaron Rodgers’ future. The Steelers clearly believe Rodgers will be their quarterback for the 2025 season.
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Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter talk during an away game in college.
Now, they can afford to look for value on Day 3. Their patience could pay off if they’re able to land a prospect like Sanders much later than expected—a move that would still be considered a steal given how far he has fallen.
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