The Steelers made significant moves in free agency, but it’s unlikely they will return to normalcy in the NFL draft.
Pittsburgh Steelers’ reliance on the NFL draft for roster filling appears to be over, as they signed Russell Wilson, traded Justin Fields, and granted Patrick Queen the biggest free-agent contract in team history, reducing their shopping list for the upcoming draft.
Mike Tomlin suggests that addressing free agency can reduce narrow-mindedness in draft prep. The Steelers could use the 20th overall pick in the first round to upgrade the offensive line and add a threat to the wide receiver group.
Pittsburgh’s recent acquisitions of Wilson, Fields, and Pickett suggest they may take another significant step at the most crucial position in the sport.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are aiming to end their longest playoff-victory drought since Franco Harris’ “The Immaculate Reception” 52 years ago. They added depth to their defensive line by re-signing Adams and bringing in Lowry, but need fresh legs from Cam Heyward, Larry Ogunjobi, Keeanu Benton, and Demarvin Leal.
Broderick Jones, a cornerstone offensive tackle, is expected to need help from Pittsburgh’s cutting center Mason Cole and short-term options Nate Herbig or James Daniels. The Steelers should focus on their strong running back tandem Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, who have topped 1,000 all-purpose yards last season.
The Steelers are considering whether to pick up Harris’ fifth-year option in the draft. Tomlin has praised Harris and Pickett, while other outside linebackers are in good shape. General manager Omar Khan may make a splash at a need position, but it’s more likely to select Amarius Mims with the first-round pick, as well as West Virginia center Zach Frazier in round two.
