The Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2025 NFL Draft class marks a pivotal moment in the franchise’s ongoing quest to fortify their roster and maintain their storied legacy. With seven selections, the Steelers leaned heavily on the defensive side of the ball, addressing key needs while also adding depth and versatility. Let’s dive into this rookie class, breaking down each pick and what it means for the team’s future.
First Round: Derrick Harmon, Defensive Lineman The Steelers kicked off their draft with a bang, selecting University of Oregon defensive lineman Derrick Harmon with the 21st overall pick. This move was a clear statement of intent, addressing an “extreme urgency” to bolster the defensive line, as head coach Mike Tomlin put it. Harmon’s addition is a premium pick on a talented player, expected to bring immediate impact and long-term stability to the front line. His presence is a nod to the Steelers’ tradition of building a formidable defense, a cornerstone of their success.
Third Round: Kaleb Johnson, Running Back In the third round, the Steelers turned their attention to the offensive side, drafting Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson with the 83rd pick. Johnson steps into a role that requires both power and agility, traits he demonstrated during his college career. His selection is a strategic move to refresh the backfield, offering a fresh dynamic that complements the team’s existing offensive strategy. With just five fumbles in four seasons at Iowa, Johnson’s ball security is a promising sign, aligning with the Steelers’ emphasis on reliability.
Fourth Round: Jack Sawyer, Linebacker The fourth round saw the Steelers add Ohio State linebacker Jack Sawyer, selected 123rd overall. Despite already having a strong group of outside linebackers, Sawyer’s value was too good to pass up. His knack for making big plays, exemplified by a game-sealing strip sack in the Cotton Bowl, adds a playmaker to the defense. This pick continues the Steelers’ trend of strengthening their run defense, a critical component of their game plan.
Fifth Round: Yahya Black, Defensive End With the 164th pick, the Steelers selected Iowa defensive end Yahya Black in the fifth round. Black’s addition further reinforces the defensive line, providing depth and versatility. His presence ensures that the Steelers have multiple options to rotate in and out, maintaining pressure on opposing offenses throughout the game. This pick is about building a robust defensive unit that can withstand the rigors of a long season.
Sixth Round: Will Howard, Quarterback The sixth round brought a surprising yet strategic pick with Kansas State quarterback Will Howard, selected 205th overall. While the Steelers didn’t need to address the quarterback position urgently, Howard represents a developmental prospect with potential. His addition is a forward-thinking move, ensuring the team has a backup plan should future needs arise. It’s a reminder that the Steelers are always planning for the long term, even in the later rounds.
Seventh Round: Carson Bruener, Tight End In a nod to family legacy, the Steelers selected Washington tight end Carson Bruener with the 237th pick. Bruener’s father, Mark, was drafted by the Steelers 30 years earlier, spending nine seasons in Pittsburgh. This pick is as much about heritage as it is about talent, with Carson spending the final day of the draft with his father in their family cabin, a poignant moment that ties the past to the present. His addition brings a familiar name back to the roster, potentially resonating with longtime fans.
Seventh Round: Donte Kent, Defensive Back The Steelers wrapped up their draft with Middle Tennessee defensive back Donte Kent, selected 254th overall. At 5-10, 189 pounds, Kent offers versatility, comfortable in the slot or on the outside. His willingness to be a core special-teamer adds value to a late-round pick, ensuring he can contribute immediately. This selection ends the Steelers’ all-Big Ten draft class trend, bringing a MAC product into the fold and rounding out a diverse group of rookies.
This 2025 draft class is a blend of immediate impact players and developmental prospects, reflecting the Steelers’ balanced approach to building a team. From the defensive reinforcements to the offensive additions, each pick addresses a specific need while also contributing to the team’s overall depth. As these rookies don the black and yellow, they carry the weight of the Steelers’ legacy and the promise of a new chapter. The field awaits, and with this class, the Steelers are poised to write another chapter in their storied history.
