Pittsburgh Steelers narrow focus for the 2025 NFL Draft

The Pittsburgh Steelers approach the 2025 NFL Draft with uncertainty at quarterback and holes to fill on both sides of the ball following a busy free agency period that reshaped their roster.

After finishing 10–7 last season, Pittsburgh has six draft picks to bolster its depth and address key needs, including at QB, running back, and defensive line.

Picks held by the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2025 Draft (2024 record: 10-7)

Here’s a look at their current draft capital:

• Round 1: No. 21 overall
• Round 3: No. 83
• Round 4: No. 123
• Round 5: No. 156
• Round 6: No. 185 (via Bears in trade with Seahawks)
• Round 7: No. 229 (via Falcons in trade with Eagles)

Positions the Steelers need to strengthen

• QB | RB | DL | WR | OL

Pittsburgh’s quarterback situation remains a major question mark. The franchise brought back Mason Rudolph and signed Skylar Thompson from Miami, but the pursuit of Aaron Rodgers has stalled, with the veteran yet to confirm his plans for the upcoming season.

While Pittsburgh initially didn’t plan to select a quarterback in Round 1, the evolving draft landscape has changed that calculus. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Steelers are now monitoring the availability of Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders, who unexpectedly could slide outside the top 10.

“Sources said the Steelers hadn’t intended to draft a quarterback in Round 1, but they also didn’t expect Sanders to fall. Now, all options appear to be on the table, and they’re preparing in case he’s available,” Schefter reported.

Another potential target at No. 21 is Jaxson Dart from Ole Miss, whose stock has steadily climbed throughout the pre-draft process.

Key roster needs heading into the draft

• Quarterback (QB): The Rodgers watch continues, but the team could pivot to the draft for a long-term solution.
• Running Back (RB): After Najee Harris departed for the Chargers, the backfield lacks a lead option.
• Defensive Line (DL): Cam Heyward remains a cornerstone at 35, but Pittsburgh needs a successor to groom.
• Wide Receiver (WR): Even with the addition of DK Metcalf, depth remains crucial.
• Offensive Line (OL): Following departures on the interior, reinforcements are needed to protect whoever lines up under center.

A busy offseason: key departures and arrivals

Pittsburgh has been active in reshaping the roster, parting ways with quarterbacks Justin Fields (Jets), Russell Wilson (Giants), and Kyle Allen (Lions). Other key losses include Najee Harris, Dan Moore Jr., Larry Ogunjobi, and Mike Williams.

However, the Steelers have made several notable additions, highlighted by the acquisition of DK Metcalf at wide receiver and Darius Slay at cornerback. Other arrivals include Mason Rudolph, Kenneth Gainwell (RB), Donald Parham Jr. (TE), and Juan Thornhill (S), among others.

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