The Pittsburgh Steelers approached the 2025 NFL Draft with a clear strategy: strengthen their roster on both sides of the ball while keeping an eye on long-term development. Despite rumors linking them to a rookie quarterback early in the draft, the team held off until the sixth round to address that position. Their focus instead landed on bolstering the defensive line and running game, as shown in their early picks. With only two selections across the first two days, due to a previous trade for wide receiver D.K. Metcalf, the Steelers used their limited opportunities to add immediate-impact players.
In the first round, Pittsburgh selected defensive tackle Derrick Harmon from Oregon. Harmon was widely regarded as a late riser in the draft process, thanks in part to impressive athletic testing at over 300 pounds. His combination of strength, size, and agility made him a valuable pick at No. 21 overall. Sadly, Harmon’s selection was marked by tragedy when news broke that his mother passed away shortly after his name was called—a moment of deep personal loss amid his professional triumph.
On Day 2, the Steelers surprised many by drafting Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson with the 83rd overall pick. Johnson was a dominant force in college, leading the Big Ten in both rushing yards and touchdowns in 2024. While some expected Pittsburgh to target a quarterback at this spot, Johnson’s selection filled a need in the backfield and added power to the offense. His size and agility suggest he could be a strong contributor right away.
As the draft continued, Pittsburgh used their remaining picks to reinforce depth and develop future starters. Fourth-round selection Jack Sawyer, a linebacker from Ohio State, brought physicality and experience to the defense. In the fifth, they added massive Iowa defensive tackle Yahya Black, a run-stopping specialist. The sixth round saw the team finally take a quarterback—Ohio State’s Will Howard, known for his accuracy and game management. Though not flashy, Howard offers a steady presence who could compete for snaps if needed.
The draft wrapped up with two seventh-round selections focused on special teams and depth. Carson Bruener, a linebacker from Washington and son of former Steelers tight end Mark Bruener, brings speed and a family legacy to the team. Their final pick, cornerback Donte Kent from Central Michigan, is undersized but praised for his quickness and ability to contribute in run defense. Overall, Pittsburgh’s 2025 draft class blends short-term help with long-term potential, even as questions about their quarterback future linger.
