After the Pittsburgh Steelers took Max Iheanachor in the first round of the NFL Draft, the team has more work to accomplish. They still have needs at wide receiver, guard, linebacker, and in the secondary. It should be another busy day for the Steelers as they have four picks on the second day of the draft, from rounds two to three. It should be another exciting night.
Forming a strong draft class requires a team to start off strong in Round 1 and continue to build off of that. Day 2 of the event presents a major opportunity for Pittsburgh to capitalize on. There are still quality prospects who failed to hear their names called on night one of the draft. There are some interesting options who could become members of the Black and Gold by the end of the evening.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could target these talented prospects on Day 2 of the NFL Draft
Darrell Jackson Jr., DT, Florida State
While adding a defensive lineman may not be at the top of their list of needs, Darrell Jackson Jr. would be difficult to overlook. The team should continue investing in the trenches, regardless of how deep the position group appears. Jackson may not be their preferred option in the second round, but he could become a strong consideration in the third. He profiles as an ideal defensive tackle for them.
Drew Allar, QB, Penn State
Even if Aaron Rodgers is expected to return at some point, the Steelers are still likely to seek a quarterback.
If they are targeting a true developmental prospect, Drew Allar could rank highly on their board. At the moment, the organization appears prepared to use a Day 2 pick at the position, and Allar fits their preferred profile. He possesses a strong arm, but he will need significant development before he is ready to become a starter.
Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama
After surprising fans by not selecting a receiver in the first round, the Steelers’ most pressing need remains unaddressed. Germie Bernard offers considerable talent, but it is difficult to envision him slipping to their second-round pick at No. 53 overall. Pittsburgh may need to trade up in the second round to secure Bernard, or risk watching him come off the board earlier.
Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
Securing a long-term upgrade at linebacker is a goal the organization hopes to achieve. If that scenario unfolds, Jacob Rodriguez could emerge as one of their top targets. He is widely regarded as one of the best players at his position in the class. While his availability in Round 2 remains uncertain, he would be firmly in consideration if he is still on the board when they are on the clock.
Carson Beck, QB, Miami
Targeting Carson Beck in the second round could prove to be one of the riskiest moves a franchise might make in the NFL Draft. While the Steelers have shown interest, using one of their later third-round picks would make the potential selection more reasonable. Beck projects as a low-ceiling, high-floor prospect.
He is unlikely to develop into a long-term starter, but he could reliably fill the role of a dependable backup.
Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
One of the few prospects on this list who did not receive a formal pre-draft visit was Zachariah Branch. That said, he did spend time meeting with the team during Georgia’s pro day event. Branch is a unique and highly talented option who could add a different dynamic to the roster. Although a minor legal issue surfaced shortly before the draft, it does not appear to be a significant concern.
Treydan Stukes, DB, Arizona
Take it for what you will, but Treydan Stukes was a late addition to the Steelers’ pre-draft visit list, which could indicate a growing level of interest. He brings versatility to the defensive backfield, able to line up at multiple positions. His skill set in the slot would be his primary appeal if he were to land in Pittsburgh. The team needs depth and a potential long-term option in that area.
Malik Muhammad, CB, Texas
Targeting a versatile defensive back on Day 2 of the draft has become a common expectation surrounding Pittsburgh. The team needs added depth behind Jalen Ramsey, and Malik Muhammed fits that profile well. He offers the flexibility to line up both inside and outside at cornerback, a trait that holds significant value in today’s defenses. He is projected to be a third-round pick.
Skyler Bell, WR, Connecticut
If the Steelers still want to add a receiver, they wouldn't shock many by taking a receiver on Day 2. They took Iheanachor in the first round, and Skyler Bell could be an excellent addition. Upgrading the position this late is bold, but realistic. Bell would be a fantastic value if Pittsburgh could add him late in the third round.
Cole Payton, QB, North Dakota State
Once again, selecting a quarterback in the third round appears to make sense for the Steelers.
While there is no guarantee it will happen, all signs suggest the team is preparing for that possibility. Cole Payton could be one of their better options late in the third round. He is a developmental prospect and a left-handed thrower, but his mobility, combined with his raw arm talent, makes him an intriguing candidate.
Harold Perkins Jr., LB, LSU
A sneaky Day 2 option in the NFL Draft is Harold Perkins Jr. While many evaluators project him as a Day 3 prospect, the anticipated run on linebackers between the second and third rounds could push him higher than expected. His elite athleticism is the trait that will most excite teams. The Steelers would welcome the opportunity to add a highly athletic presence to the middle of their defense.
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