The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2025 NFL Draft with clear needs and a determination to reinforce their roster for a return to AFC contention. With the departure of key veterans and the evolving landscape of the AFC North, the Steelers’ front office and coaching staff made strategic choices aimed at both immediate impact and long-term stability. Here’s a detailed look at how each of the Steelers’ 2025 draft picks will help shape the team’s fortunes this season and beyond.
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Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon (Round 1, Pick 21)
The Steelers’ first-round selection of Derrick Harmon signaled a return to their defensive roots. At 6’5”, 315 pounds, Harmon is a disruptive force on the interior defensive line, boasting an elite combination of size, strength, and athleticism. He led all FBS defensive tackles in quarterback pressures and posted a 10.7% pressure rate, making him a threat against both the run and the pass.
Immediate Impact:
Harmon is expected to step in as a rotational player behind Cameron Heyward, learning from the veteran while contributing on passing downs and in run-stopping situations. With Heyward nearing retirement, Harmon is the heir apparent and could become a cornerstone of the Steelers’ defensive front for years. His ability to collapse the pocket will help Pittsburgh generate more interior pressure, a weakness in recent seasons, and shore up a run defense that faltered late in 2024.
Long-Term Outlook:
Harmon’s versatility and high motor fit perfectly with Mike Tomlin’s defensive philosophy. He’s projected to be a three-down player capable of anchoring the line, freeing up edge rushers like T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith to make plays.
Kaleb Johnson, RB, Iowa (Round 3, Pick 83)
With Najee Harris departing in free agency, running back was a glaring need. The Steelers addressed this by drafting Kaleb Johnson, a powerful runner who tallied 1,537 yards and 23 touchdowns in his final college season. Johnson’s bruising style and ability to gain yards after contact (4.42 YAC per attempt) make him a perfect fit for Arthur Smith’s run-heavy offense.
Immediate Impact:
Johnson is expected to compete for the starting job right away. ESPN’s Field Yates named him as one of the top rookies likely to make an instant impact, and with Jaylen Warren as his main competition, Johnson could quickly become the lead back. His physicality and vision will help the Steelers control the clock, improve red-zone efficiency, and provide much-needed balance to the offense.
Long-Term Outlook:
Johnson’s skillset gives Pittsburgh a potential workhorse back for years to come. His presence will help ease the transition for whoever is under center and take pressure off the passing game.
Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Ohio State (Round 4, Pick 123)
Adding depth to the pass rush, the Steelers selected Jack Sawyer, a high-upside edge rusher from Ohio State. Sawyer brings versatility, having played both defensive end and outside linebacker in college. He’s known for his relentless motor and ability to set the edge against the run.
Immediate Impact:
Sawyer will likely serve as a rotational pass rusher behind T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, giving the Steelers a fresh body to maintain pressure throughout games. His presence also insulates the team against injuries and provides a developmental option who could eventually start.
Long-Term Outlook:
With the Steelers’ history of developing edge talent, Sawyer could blossom into a key contributor or even a future starter, ensuring the defense remains formidable.
Yahya Black, NT, Iowa (Round 5, Pick 164)
Continuing to reinforce the defensive line, Pittsburgh picked Yahya Black, a versatile lineman who can play both nose tackle and four-technique. Black’s strength and run-stopping ability add valuable depth to a unit that struggled against the run late last season.
Immediate Impact:
Black is expected to contribute on early downs and in short-yardage situations. His experience at Iowa, where he played alongside former Steeler Logan Lee, should help him acclimate quickly.
Long-Term Outlook:
Black’s versatility and work ethic could see him develop into a reliable starter or key rotational piece, especially as the team transitions away from aging veterans.
Will Howard, QB, Ohio State (Round 6, Pick 185)
The Steelers finally addressed their quarterback depth by selecting Will Howard, fresh off a national championship at Ohio State. Howard set a record with 13 straight completions in the title game and is praised for his poise and leadership.
Immediate Impact:
Howard is expected to compete for the backup job behind Mason Rudolph and, potentially, Aaron Rodgers if he signs. While he may not see significant playing time as a rookie, his strong work ethic and leadership have already impressed head coach Mike Tomlin.
Long-Term Outlook:
Howard is viewed as a developmental prospect who could eventually contend for the starting role. His experience in big games and ability to handle pressure make him an intriguing option for the future.
Carson Bruener, LB, Washington (Round 7, Pick 226)
With their first pick in the seventh round, the Steelers selected Carson Bruener, a linebacker with strong family ties to the organization. Bruener is known for his special teams prowess and versatility.
Immediate Impact:
Bruener will compete for a roster spot as a backup linebacker and special teams contributor. His football IQ and work ethic give him a good chance to stick.
Long-Term Outlook:
If Bruener can carve out a role on special teams, he could develop into a reliable depth option at linebacker, a position where injuries often strike.
Donte Kent, CB, Central Michigan (Round 7, Pick 229)
The Steelers rounded out their draft with Donte Kent, a physical cornerback with strong tackling skills. Kent’s experience and versatility make him a candidate for both special teams and depth in the secondary.
Immediate Impact:
Kent will compete for a backup role and could see action on special teams. His tackling ability and physical play fit the Steelers’ defensive identity.
Long-Term Outlook:
With development, Kent could become a valuable depth piece in the secondary, capable of stepping in when needed.
Feature Image courtesy post-gazette.com
