The Steelers went into this offseason with many needs and have begun filling a few of them.
The most noteworthy is a blockbuster trade for now-former Seattle Seahawks WR D.K. Metcalf. It was reported that Metcalf agreed to a five-year deal worth $132 million, which adds to the one year he has left on his contract, during which he is set to earn $18 million.
So how does this impact the draft?
The Steelers gave up their second-round selection, pick 52, to acquire their big target at receiver. Many including myself mocked Ohio State WR Emeka Egbuka and Texas WR Matthew Golden to the Steelers in the first round at pick 20.
As things currently stand, wideout is obviously less pressing of a need. However, that could change if George Pickens is dealt. But the odds of a pass-catcher with their first-round selection have dropped significantly.
In addition, last night we learned that Pittsburgh inked former Eagles RB Kenneth Gainwell to a one-year contract. In four years with the Eagles, Gainwell established himself as one of the better third-down backs and kick returners in the league. He’ll join Jaylen Warren as the only two backs who are locks to make the opening roster.
I’m not sure this changes the Steelers’ approach to adding a back through the draft. I’d like them to add a speedster like Virginia Tech’s Bhayshal Tuten, or Texas’ Jaydon Blue in Rounds 3 or 4. They can’t enter the season with just Warren/Gainwell, especially when considering Warren’s recent injury history.
Bhayshul Tuten is the most underrated RB in this draft class. Would be a steal if he is available for the Browns on Day 3.
Video creds: Ace30 pic.twitter.com/m1vRwBUKdp
— slimmvinny (@slimmvinny) March 11, 2025
General Manager Omar Khan also reportedly signed former Eagles CB Darius Slay to a one-year deal, which should be announced today after Slay is officially released by the Eagles.
Slay is 34, and although I’d anticipate him holding down outside corner for a year next to Joey Porter Jr., I can’t imagine this would preclude Pittsburgh from drafting a cornerback as early as round one. Keep an eye on East Carolina’s Shavon Revel.
This brings us to positions the Steelers have not addressed – most notably defensive line, and yes… quarterback.
Selecting a defensive lineman in round one would have to be the odds-on favorite, especially after the release of Larry Ogunjobi. Michigan’s Kenneth Grant and Oregon’s Derrick Harmon are two strong candidates- and I wouldn’t rule out Ole Miss’s Walter Nolen.
And speaking of Ole Miss… could quarterback actually be in play?
Of course, I’m talking about Jaxson Dart, who will likely be the third signal-caller off the board. The Steelers let QB Justin Fields walk in free agency. He was the younger, upside play. I’m positive they’ll be in the market for another, especially if Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson is the starter.
Of course, this will all rapidly change as the weeks progress – and so will all of your mock drafts. Get ready for some fine-tuning!
