The Pittsburgh Steelers stirred up a whirlwind of emotion on Thursday night during the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. NFL analysts expected them to finally address their long-standing quarterback issue with the 21st overall pick. Instead, they doubled down on their defensive identity by selecting Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon.
The selection even caught former Steelers star and current ESPN analyst Ryan Clark off guard.
“I mean, he’s good,” Clark said with disappointment, referring to Harmon. “But… Mason Rudolph?” His follow-up comment echoed the confusion and frustration of a fan base desperate for a new face at quarterback.
Multiple mock drafts had predicted that the Steelers would use their first-round capital to select Colorado State quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who surprisingly slid down the board.
READ MORE: Steelers should be sending thank-you cards after perfect Round 1 gift
Coming into the draft, all signs pointed to an offensive addition. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is tasked with reviving a stagnant unit, and a young, dynamic quarterback seemed like the natural answer.
Omar Khan, however, had different plans.
The Pittsburgh Steelers made the right move despite Ryan Clark's emotional outburst
Khan stayed true to his personnel philosophy, focusing on the trenches over flash. Harmon, considered one of the top defensive tackles in the class, will immediately bolster a young and aggressive defense. It wasn’t a bad pick— just not the one many longed for.
Clark’s emotional response reflects a concern among Steelers fans: the lingering uncertainty at quarterback. With Sanders still on the board, the question looms large—did Pittsburgh miss their shot?
I believe they did not.
The Steelers likely made the best decision based on their board. Omar Khan invested in a blue-chip talent with starter potential.
While the draft enters its second and third days, Pittsburgh still has the opportunity to land a promising quarterback. Especially if Sanders falls or a high-upside talent like Jalen Milroe is available.
Though Ryan Clark’s disappointment was raw and real, the Steelers' draft isn’t finished. There’s still time for Pittsburgh to find its quarterback—and finish strong.