Steelers Now
Now that all the dust has settled surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers 2025 draft class, it’s time to grade their haul. Obviously, it really takes two or three years to properly evaluate these prospects’ transition to the pros but in the meantime, it’s worth examining the team’s strategy and how these pieces fit in the puzzle. The shot callers sent a very clear message over the weekend: they needed to get tougher along the defensive front. Head Coach Mike Tomlin even admitted how much their embarrassing loss to the rival Baltimore Ravens sting them to their core.
Before diving into the assessment, it’s worth providing some necessary context for the scale itself. The DK Metcalf trade isn’t factored into the equation here. If you’re wondering why, it’s because simply inputting him into their draft class as their de facto second-round selection ignores the fact that they’re paying him like a top-5 wideout from an AAV perspective. It’s just a much more complicated evaluation than that.
For historical reference, I have been a fan of Omar Khan’s first couple classes, having given them an A- in 2023 and B+ in 2024 respectively. Now, let’s talk about his third go-around as the Steelers general manager.
Day One:
Their interest in Derrick Harmon was very apparent throughout the process, so this was a marriage that seemed inevitable if he fell to them in the first round. The Oregon transfer finished the process as my fourth-ranked defensive tackle and 22nd overall player on my big board, meaning the value here aligns perfectly. Defensive line was one of their top needs on the roster with Larry Ogunjobi released for performance reasons and Cam Heyward nearing the end of his well-decorated career in the black and gold. Would it have been nice to trade back and acquire another day two pick? Sure.
Wasn’t sure what to expect from Derrick Harmon’s film after transferring from Michigan State. He’s an improved prospect for sure.
Back to back run stops with him peeking/shedding before making a tackle.
Yeah… I’m a fan. pic.twitter.com/HwQbzfaxaG
— Derrick (@Steelers_DB) December 31, 2024
But in my estimation, there was a noticeable drop-off in caliber of prospect between him and the remaining options at this position. Pittsburgh felt the same way, acknowledging that this was a player they weren’t comfortable trading down from. Aside from the injury concerns that led to his slide, I think Harmon has a high floor with modest upside. Harmon’s a quality run defender and disruptive pass rusher that is capable of starting right away. This move makes a ton of sense and he should become a plus starter during his rookie contract.
After sticking and picking on Thursday night, the Steelers had to wait an eternity to get back on the clock. Luckily for them, they received a gift from the wide-zone gods with Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson falling all the way down the third round. Johnson finished as...
