The Steelers’ Top 6 NFL Draft Needs
Now that the Pittsburgh Steelers season is in the books and we’ve had more than four months to watch this team. While there were many highs and lows, the team was almost uniformly a good young team. Almost. Pittsburgh made a trade for the No. The Steelers have now obtained the No. 32 overall pick, which effectively gives them two first-rounders in the next round. 2023 NFL draft, so let’s update and rank the team’s top six draft needs.
1-Inside linebacker
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Although this is a controversial pick, I would choose inside linebacker over offensive tackle in the draft. It’s especially important if the Steelers have free access to a veteran offensive tackle. Even more so if Devin Bush or Myles Jack are not brought back.
2-Offensive tackle
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Although the Steelers’ offensive line was strong during the second half, we recognize that Dan Moore is in need of being upgraded at left tackle. This group benefited a great deal from continuity and consistency and so we are hesitant to make huge changes but if a player like Ohio State’s Paris Johnson Jr or Georgia’s Broderick Jones is on the board in the first round, no one would complain.
3-Defensive tackle
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DeMarvin Leal, a defensive end for the Steelers, is one of their most interesting young players. The defensive line still lacks a run-stuffing, big defensive tackle to help with run defense. Although it might not be one of the first three picks, this should happen.
4-Cornerback
This need will disappear if Pittsburgh retains Ahkello Witherspoon or William Jackson III. But if Pittsburgh takes the cost-cutting route then adding a fourth Cornerback makes good sense.
5-Wide receiver
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Even if Calvin Austin is healthy and comes off IR, it’s safe to assume that the Steelers will find a hidden gem in a wide receiver to complete this group. Perhaps another receiver with speed, or maybe Chase Claypool will be replaced by a bigger body.
6-Edge rusher
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T.J. Watt (Steelers) and Alex Highsmith are the most effective edge-rushing team in the AFC. The team is still trying to find a third pass rusher, despite multiple failed attempts.