Pittsburgh Steelers Mock Draft Roundup 3.0

Hampton's impressive burst and power through contact make him a great fit for a Steelers running game in need of an identity.

Perhaps now the most pressing need in Pittsburgh, but a tremendous value pick. There are mixed reviews on what Jalon Walker will be at the NFL level, but few question his athleticism and traits. Could the next great Steelers pass-rusher fall into their laps?

Gone is Larry Ogunjobi, and Cameron Heyward, despite an inspiring 2024, will be 36 this upcoming season. Grant is inconsistent but his best football is in front of him, with strength and plugging. but also twitchiness that points to more upside as a pass rusher.

Jaxson Dart or a defensive lineman? As the Steelers sit in QB purgatory, waiting for an answer from Aaron Rodgers, this is the question that's been asked often in Pittsburgh. That sports-talk hypothetical becomes mock reality here as the Steelers stand pat at No. 21. GM Omar Khan spent first-round picks in each of the last two years on offensive tackles Broderick Jones (2023) and Troy Fautanu (2024), to go along with second-round center Zach Frazier (2024). Continuing the team's philosophy of building through the trenches, the Steelers address their most glaring hole on the roster.

The 6-4, 296-pound Grant likely projects as the nose tackle in the Steelers' 3-4 base defense, allowing Keeanu Benton to slide over to the 3-4 end position. However, because both players have some versatility, where they line up will be worked out in team development. The Steelers will try to find a veteran bridge QB in 2025, consider a QB in the mid-to-late rounds and then make an aggressive push for a first-round rookie QB in 2026. — Mike DeFabo

The Steelers' plan at quarterback is not completely clear at the moment. Even if they were to land 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers, they would still need a long-term option at the position, so they take another swing here with Dart.

While questions about Sanders' leadership and true arm strength could make him a curious fit for some, I like the pairing with Mike Tomlin and an offense that just landed DK Metcalf. Despite what his critics might suggest, Sanders is this year's most accurate quarterback, and he's proven in a pro-style offense, starring this past season at Colorado under playcaller Pat Shurmur, a three-time NFL head coach. While Sanders is widely considered among this class's top two quarterbacks, Louisville's Tyler Shough is another intriguing pro-ready passer who would fit well for the Steelers.

The Steelers get a speedy, do-everything, inside and outside corner in Barron.

Membou had a great performance at the combine. The Steelers would be banking on the upside here, adding a player who I think could play tackle or guard on the offensive line; they lost offensive tackle Dan Moore in free agency. You can play 2023 first-round pick Broderick Jones from right tackle to left tackle and 2024 first-round pick Troy Fautanu can kick out to right guard in this scenario.

The Steelers could go in a handful of directions. I'm going to assume they sign Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson, which will take care of the quarterback position. Running back is a potential play if Ashton Jeanty or Omarion Hampton is available, given Najee Harris went to the Chargers. Cornerback also could be the move, as new signing Darius Slay Jr. is 34 and on a one-year deal. However, I'm addressing the defensive line in my projection.

Cameron Heyward had eight sacks last season, but he will turn 36 this summer. There could be a hole alongside Keeanu Benton sooner rather than later. Harmon has the versatility to move all over the D-line, but his best spot is inside, where he can use his speed and power to be disruptive. He had 35 pressures and 10 tackles for loss last season.

Derrick Harmon just feels like a Steeler: a no-nonsense interior defender who can either two-gap or one-gap with relative ease. He would give them a seamless transition plan from the ageless Cam Heyward.

Pittsburgh lost its bell cow back in Najee Harris but can add a more dynamic runner with similar size in his place: Omarion Hampton.

Given that the Steelers also added DK Metcalf to the mix and feel on the cusp of adding Aaron Rodgers, this could be the most dangerous Steelers offense we've seen in some time.