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As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, their strategy is beginning to take shape. With a mix of immediate needs and long-term goals, the team is expected to focus on key positions to strengthen their roster. Here’s a breakdown of the Steelers’ potential draft strategy for 2025.
Strengthening the lines
The offensive and defensive lines remain a top priority for the Steelers heading into the offseason. In recent years, the team has faced challenges with consistency in the trenches, making the 2025 draft a crucial opportunity to address this issue.
On offense, two starters (left tackle Dan Moore Jr. and right guard James Daniels, who finished the season on injured reserve) are scheduled to become free agents.
After targeting offensive tackle with their first-round picks in the last two drafts (Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu) the team could look at adding another guard as a priority, or a tackle if they feel Jones or Fautanu aren’t the answers. Regardless, they will likely look elsewhere to add depth with Moore all but certain to be leaving.
While the NFL is about balancing offense and defense, the most accurate NFL predictions have shown that, more often than not, users who back the team with the stronger offense tend to fare better. Adding a dominant lineman would not only improve pass protection but also create more opportunities for the running game, a cornerstone of getting back to the Steelers offensive identity of previous years.
Pairing young blood with veterans Cameron Heyward and Larry Ogunjobi could prove to be crucial in patterning their defensive success in schemes similar to how the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Kansas Chiefs in the Super Bowl.
Adding dynamic wide receivers
The Steelers have a storied history with explosive wide receivers, and 2025 could see them add another playmaker to their roster. This is especially true after pursuing, but failing to pair another big play receiver with George Pickens in 2024.
Several receivers on the current depth chart are not expected to return, leaving one of the weaker receiver rooms in the NFL at a greater deficit. While Pickens should rejoin Calvin Austin, the only other receiver under contract will be Roman Wilson – a rookie who saw no substantial playing time after battling injuries all season.
With the need for a true number one option, Pittsburgh may look to draft a game-changing pass-catcher. A young, talented receiver paired with their quarterback of the future could elevate the Steelers’ offense to new heights. Whether it’s a deep threat or a reliable possession receiver, adding a dynamic wideout would provide a significant boost to their passing game.
Evaluating the quarterback position
The quarterback position is always a focal point for any team, and the Steelers are no exception. After moving on from all three of their quarterbacks last offseason (Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, and Mason Rudolph) Pittsburgh could wipe the slate clean once again as none of their three replacements (Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and Kyle Allen) were under one-year deals that are expiring next month.
The 2025 draft could present an opportunity to secure a high-upside quarterback prospect. While it may be difficult to secure a franchise signal caller with the 21st overall pick, the team could opt to bring back Wilson or Fields while developing a middle round selection.
Regardless, the quarterback position will be a key area of focus as they plan for the future.
Bolstering the secondary
The Steelers’ defense has long been a strength, but the secondary could use some reinforcements. With the NFL becoming increasingly pass-heavy, having a reliable group of cornerbacks and safeties is essential.
Minkah Fitzpatrick and Joey Porter Jr. are credible, high profile players. Safety DeShon Elliott proved to be a solid addition in free agency last season too. However, cornerback Donte Jackson, acquired from a trade with Carolina, is scheduled to be a free agent and unlikely to return.
The team also rolled with embattled veteran Cameron Sutton and undrafted rookie Beanie Bishop at slot corner, a position that was the most glaring eyesore other than wide receiver depth.
The team could target a cornerback with strong coverage skills and the ability to contribute immediately. A young, athletic secondary would help the team compete against the league’s top passing attacks, similar to Eagles winning with rookies Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean as boundary and slot corners respectively.
Conclusion
Drafting a versatile player from the best available would be a valuable addition. This approach aligns with the Steelers’ philosophy of building a well-rounded roster that excels in all phases of the game.
The Steelers’ 2025 draft strategy will likely focus on addressing key needs while also planning for the future. By targeting linemen, playmaking wide receivers, and a potential franchise quarterback, the team can build a strong foundation for sustained success.
As the draft approaches, the Steelers’ front office will have tough decisions to make. However, with a clear strategy and a focus on versatility, the team is well-positioned to make the most of their draft capital and continue their tradition of excellence. Steelers fans can look forward to an exciting draft that could shape the future of the franchise.
What positions will the Steelers prioritize in the 2025 NFL Draft? appeared first on Steel City Underground.