The only way to improve in the NFL requires locating talent in the draft where others can't. Steelers general manager Omar Khan has been one of the few who have paid close attention to HBCU football. Many legendary players have come out of that level of college football in the past. Pittsburgh is invested in finding talent no matter where they are from, and these programs have some prospects.
It's unlikely that any of these players will go during the top rounds of the upcoming draft. Some will go towards the later portion of the event, while others will have to find homes as undrafted free agents. No matter how they land on an NFL roster, it will be up to them to secure a spot on the depth chart when training camp arrives. Expect the Steelers to show some interest in these players.
There could be a couple of diamonds in the rough for The Black and Gold.
Steelers could steal some of HBCU's best talent in upcoming draft
Carson Vinson, OL, Alabama A&M
One position of need for the Steelers remains at offensive tackle. They could use help in depth roles at both tackle spots and the interior of the offensive line. Carson Vinson could develop into a swing tackle who could slide into guard if needed. Vinson was the first HBCU star to participate in the Senior Bowl, where he did a quality job raising his draft stock.
Most projections have this offensive lineman going toward the tail end of the draft process. He could be a nice selection with the type of athleticism he brings with his game. Vinson mostly played left tackle during his collegiate career, so it's hard to project how he would do on the opposite side. This prospect also never missed time with injury. A player's availability is his best ability.
Robert McDaniel, S, Jackson State
There are few headlining names on the defensive side of the ball than Robert McDaniel. The Jackson State standout had a terrific conclusion to the season and carried that into a solid performance at the HBCU Combine. He tested well, and his mix of athleticism and size for the safety position will intrigue the Steelers. McDaniel could be a late-round flyer that evolves into a star.
When you watch this safety play, you can see the versatility that he brings with his game. McDaniel can play multiple spots across the secondary, which Pittsburgh needs. They could use help in the slot and for a young player to step into a prominent role at the safety position.
He was one of the best players on the field this season, and it appears it will land him a shot at his NFL dreams.
READ MORE: Steelers 3-round mock draft has GM Omar Khan throwing caution to the wind
Irv Mulligan, RB, Jackson State
It's a deep running back group coming out of the 2025 NFL draft. That will hurt Irv Mulligan's chances of getting drafted, but someone could get great value late in the process or as an undrafted free agent. If Pittsburgh can't target the running back position until the last handful of rounds, they could consider adding Mulligan and another prospect onto their roster.
With Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell on the depth chart, the Steelers could refuse to address the position. Mulligan could become a dependable backup plan after coming off a massive season. He rushed for 1,239 yards and added 13 touchdowns. He needs to develop more of an all-around game, but he would be a nice piece to complement Warren and Gainwell.