Pittsburgh Steelers 7-Round Mock Draft: Addressing Key Roster Needs

The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2025 offseason with plenty of questions, particularly at the quarterback position. With Russell Wilson and Justin Fields set to hit free agency, the team must decide whether to reload for another playoff run or begin a more significant roster overhaul.

With around $40 million in cap space and eight draft picks, the Steelers have options. Let’s run through a full seven-round mock draft to see how they might approach the 2025 NFL Draft.

Steelers 7-Round NFL Mock Draft

Round 1, Pick 21: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State

Wide receiver is a major need, especially with no reliable options outside of George Pickens in 2024. Egbuka, a polished route-runner with strong hands, caught 81 passes for 1,011 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, helping Ohio State win the national title. He may not have elite speed, but his reliability and contested-catch ability make him a strong fit for the Steelers.

Round 2, Pick 52: QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama

Milroe is one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in this draft. While inconsistent, his elite athleticism, strong arm, and mobility offer high upside. In 2024, he threw for 2,844 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, while also rushing for 726 yards and 20 scores. With Russell Wilson and Justin Fields both set to leave, Milroe would be a fascinating addition to Mike Tomlin’s squad.

Round 3, Pick 83: CB Cobee Bryant, Kansas

With Donte Jackson hitting free agency, Pittsburgh could be in the market for a new boundary corner. Bryant is a ball hawk, grabbing at least two interceptions in all four of his college seasons. He’s physical in coverage, though he’ll need to improve in run support.

Round 4, Pick 122: OT Anthony Belton, NC State

Pittsburgh’s offensive line struggled in 2024, and with Dan Moore Jr. and Calvin Anderson set to test free agency, tackle depth is crucial. Belton is a massive lineman with long arms and raw power, though he’ll need to refine his footwork to reach his full potential.

Round 5, Pick 163: DT Ty Robinson, Nebraska

Robinson took a leap in 2024, finishing with seven sacks while maintaining his reputation as a strong run-stuffer. He has the size and quickness to develop into a solid rotational piece on the Steelers’ defensive line.

Round 7, Pick 225: OL Gus Hartwig, Purdue

A five-year starter at center, Hartwig is an experienced and versatile lineman who could provide much-needed depth at multiple positions. He performed well at the East-West Shrine Bowl and has the football IQ to develop into a reliable interior lineman.

Round 7, Pick 238: EDGE Jah Joyner, Minnesota

Pass rush is never a bad investment, even with T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith leading the unit. Joyner is a high-motor rusher with solid burst, making him a potential rotational piece.

Round 7, Pick 247: RB Ja’Quinden Jackson, Arkansas

With Najee Harris possibly leaving in free agency, running back depth becomes a concern. Jackson rushed for 790 yards and 15 touchdowns at Arkansas in 2024, showing off powerful running and solid pass-blocking skills.

Final Takeaways

✅ Key Needs Addressed: QB, WR, CB, OT, DL
✅ Potential Franchise QB in Jalen Milroe
✅ Offensive playmakers added in Emeka Egbuka and Ja’Quinden Jackson
✅ Bolstered both offensive and defensive lines

Concerns:

❌ Milroe’s inconsistency could make him a risky pick
❌ Offensive line help comes later in the draft
❌ Will Pittsburgh add a veteran QB in free agency, or hand the job to Milroe?

Overall Draft Grade: B

The Steelers address key roster needs but take a significant risk at quarterback with Milroe. While Egbuka is a great pick, the lack of early offensive line reinforcements could be an issue.

Would you be happy with this draft as a Steelers fan, or should they take a different approach in Round 1?