January 23, 2025 2:00 am ET
Now that we know the Pittsburgh Steelers hold the No. 21 overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL draft, we can start to talk about the best fits and most realistic options for them with that pick. Obviously this puts the Steelers outside of landing an elite prospect in this draft unless the team wants to trade up into the top half of the round.
WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State
Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Emeka Egbuka (2) makes a catch against Notre Dame Fighting Irish cornerback Leonard Moore (15) in the third quarter during the College Football Playoff championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on January 20, 2025.
The combination of route running, strong hands and fearless downfield blocking just screams Steelers receiver. He’s the antithesis of George Pickens on and off the field and a perfect fit.
OT – Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon
Jan 1, 2024; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Josh Conerly Jr. (76) against the Liberty Flames during the 2024 Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Pundits are somewhat split on Conerly but in a class without any truly elite offensive tackles, a player like Conerly can be a value at No. 21 with his ability to start at tackle or guard.
CB – Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame
Sep 23, 2023; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (18) tries to come up with the catch against Notre Dame Fighting Irish cornerback Benjamin Morrison (20) but draws a penalty during the second quarter of their game at Notre Dame Stadium.
The Steelers should have their pick of cornerbacks if that’s the direction they choose to go in but there’s something about Morrison and his resume that we love.
DT Kenneth Grant, Michigan
Jan 8, 2024; Houston, TX, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Kenneth Grant (78) celebrates after a sack during the second quarter against the Washington Huskies in the 2024 College Football Playoff national championship game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Often overshadowed by Mason Graham, Grant really came into his own in 2024 and has all the tools to be a dominant run stuffer in a scheme like the Steelers.
RB Omarion Hampton, North Carolina
Nov 16, 2024; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels running back Omarion Hampton (28) runs as Wake Forest Demon Deacons defensive back Evan Slocum (7) defends in the fourth quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Many fans would flip out of the Steelers spend their first-round pick on a running back but if Najee Harris leaves, running back would be a high priority, even with Jaylen Warren. The reason Hampton is the pick here over waiting is his explosion and burst at 220 pounds.
