As we inch closer to the 2025 NFL Draft, a new opportunity to read the tea leaves arises with each passing day. I’m going to assemble who I have the most confidence in as the Steelers’ first-round pick as we currently stand. This is an exercise I’ve done the past few seasons. It takes into account where the player is projected to be drafted, along with perceived interest. Last year, I had eventual first-round selection OT Troy Fautanu as third. The year before, I correctly predicted Broderick Jones.

My FINAL #Steelers 1st RD pick confidence rankings:

1. Broderick Jones OT Georgia
2. Lukas Van Ness EDGE Iowa
3. Darnell Wright OT Tennessee
4. Joey Porter CB Penn St
5. Deonte Banks CB Maryland

— Mike Nicastro (@MikedUpSports1) April 26, 2023

It’s time to run it back! I’ll count down backwards for dramatic effect. Enjoy!

The Steelers’ interest in drafting a wideout in round one is very real. Golden just spent some time at Steelers HQ, which is a clear indication of their interest. I don’t think there’s any chance WR George Pickens will be given an extension or even return to the team after the year, especially considering the money they gave newly acquired DK Metcalf. So, finding another option next to Metcalf long term will be a priority.

The reason I have Golden ranked lower is because I don’t think he’ll be available when the Steelers pick at 21. Our Ryan Parish did a full profile on him here earlier this year. He’s soared to the top wideout on my board.

Wideout may not be the biggest need for 2025, but planning is the responsible thing to do.

The receiver theme continues here with a smooth route-runner who has been on the NFL radar for quite some time. He was probably the most mocked player to the black and gold prior to the Metcalf acquisition. He’s primarily a slot receiver but has a very high floor and will be an immediate contributor. He’s lower than Golden on my list because I do think he will be available when the Steelers are on the clock. You can read more about him here.

3. Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss

Nolen is one of the best pure athletes you’ll find at the defensive tackle position. While he isn’t the biggest body, he can constantly wreak havoc in the backfield due to his high motor, hand placement, and a bevy of moves. Nolen recently boldly predicted he could be the next Aaron Donald, who is arguably the most athletic defensive tackle in NFL history.

The Steelers' need is obvious – they only have two starters penciled in upfront, those being Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton. This position has to be priority A leading into the draft.

Harmon’s momentum to Pittsburgh feels like it’s starting to wane. He’s a lengthier and more powerful player than Nolen, and sort of fits that throwback mold of defensive tackle. He’d fit in the Steelers' defensive scheme as an odd alignment in a 3-4, but he doesn’t have the pass-rush chops as a Heyward. Not many do.

I think he’s likely to be available when the Steelers pick at 21.

Grant is currently the opposite of Harmon in that his momentum with the Steelers seems to be gaining steam. He met with the Steelers at the NFL combine but has yet to visit the Steel City for a pre-draft tour. Grant described the meeting as “very serious.”

He’s been a bit overlooked due to playing next to likely top-five pick and former teammate Mason Graham, but he’s also elite. He’s massive, weighing in at 331 pounds at the combine, which is more reflective as a true nose in a classic 3-4, but the plus run defender can also play 3-tech due to his athleticism.

Right now, my money is on Grant to end up in black and gold.

What are your thoughts and current rankings? Let us know in the comments section!