Steelers first 3 draft picks based on Gil Brandt’s hot 100
By Andrew Falce
Steelers round 1
If things fall exactly as Brandt has in his rankings, the Steelers will be selecting versatile Michigan defensive back Daxton Hill in the first round of the draft, as he has him ranked as the 20th best prospect. Just by appearances, that actually makes sense, as the team needs a safety, and they sent a slew of scouts to Michigan for their Pro Day. If this team doesn’t select a quarterback, it seems like a defensive back would be next on the list.
Other notable names past pick twenty include Nakobe Dean (22nd overall), Jalen Pitre (24th overall), and Zion Johnson (29th overall). On top of this, a slew of receivers are there for the taking, including both Ohio State options and Jamison Williams. Just missing out are fan-favorite names like Jordan Davis (19th overall) and some of the other mid-first round linemen.
Interesting to note is that while Brandt has three quarterbacks listed in the top-32 of his rankings, the first one doesn’t appear until pick 25. In order, he has Malik Willis, Matt Corral, and Kenny Pickett ranked. While it is likely all three of those names are first-round picks, it would be shocking to not see them go far earlier than where Brandt has them. That said if the Steelers could get the quarterback they so obviously covet and not have to trade up would be a plus.
Overall, Brandt’s first-round rankings are pretty on par for what most people expect to happen. For the Steelers, landing a talented and versatile safety would be a fine first-round target, especially when you consider the needs of this team. The other names that, in theory, would be available would also make sense.
That being said, the quarterback order is extremely interesting. Seeing the top three ranked within five picks of each other, and all of them being viewed as late first-round picks, could be a benefit for the Steelers. While expecting the first quarterback to go off the board at pick 25 is unlikely, there is a possible chance that some of the top names fall down the board.