Trading a veteran can be a risky decision if it simply opens another need heading into the NFL Draft. The Pittsburgh Steelers may be open to making deals under the right circumstances, and with a new coaching staff in place, some established players could be at risk of leaving.
While it is uncommon for proven NFL veterans to be traded during the draft, this simulation explores what that could look like.
Pittsburgh has been at the center of trade rumors every year since Omar Khan was named general manager. He has successfully executed several impactful moves since taking over, and that trend has continued into this offseason. This mock draft explores how Khan could move on from two notable players on the roster during the upcoming draft while still assembling a strong rookie class.
Pittsburgh Steelers mock draft witnesses roster altering trades of two notable players
Let’s get right to it, as the Steelers trade Patrick Queen to the Dallas Cowboys. Queen has been rumored to be on the trade block earlier in the offseason, with Dallas frequently mentioned in those discussions until talks stalled. Those conversations could potentially gain traction again around the NFL Draft.
In this scenario, Pittsburgh moves up seven slots and acquires an additional third round pick next year.
The second notable move involves Kaleb Johnson. Things have gone from bad to worse for last year’s third-round selection. He was viewed as a potential steal entering his rookie season, but a few costly moments on the field landed him in the doghouse. With a new coaching staff in place and both Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle ahead of him on the depth chart, Johnson could get traded.
After moving Queen and Johnson in this mock draft, Pittsburgh does not sit on its hands. With an abundance of draft capital, the Steelers set their sights on landing one of the top wide receivers. In this scenario, the Steelers complete several pick swaps with Miami and part with only a second-round pick to make the move. It's a fairly reasonable price to finally find a solution to their problem.
Round 1 | Pick 11 (via MIA): Makai Lemon, WR, USC
After completing a trade with Miami, the Steelers step up to the podium and select Makai Lemon. He is an explosive playmaker with the ball in his hands and brings a physical, tough mindset to the position. Some talent evaluators have drawn comparisons to Amon Ra St. Brown, a comparison that should excite Pittsburgh fans. Lemon would add a dynamic receiving element to the Steelers.
Round 3 | Pick 75 (via MIA): Gennings Dunker, OG, Iowa
Adding one or two offensive linemen is something many expect the Steelers to prioritize in their mock drafts.
Securing a quality option at guard should be near the top of the list, and Gennings Dunker fits the mold Pittsburgh typically targets. He is a physical, aggressive blocker coming off a strong pre-draft process. While he played tackle in college, he is projected to slide inside to guard at the next level, where his versatility could make him a valuable piece along the offensive line.
Round 3 | Pick 85: Darrell Jackson, DT, Florida State
Do not rule out the Steelers targeting a defensive tackle in the NFL Draft, as Darrell Jackson fits the profile they often seek in the trenches. Investing in the defensive line is rarely a bad strategy, and Jackson checks many of the right boxes. While he is not a finished product entering the draft, he is a physical run defender with plenty of upside. Pittsburgh will allow him to develop for a year.
Round 3 | Pick 92 (via DAL): Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
Using two picks to address the wide receiver position is smart business for the Steelers in this mock draft. Zachariah Branch may be undersized coming out of Georgia, but his explosiveness stands out. He can make plays in difficult situations and create offense on his own. While some will question his size, his playmaking ability should intrigue teams.
Round 4 | Pick 101 (via TEN): Isaiah World, OT, Oregon
After moving Johnson in the earlier trade, Pittsburgh uses this pick to add depth along the offensive line.
Isaiah World is a developmental offensive tackle with the potential to grow into a starter at the NFL level. He brings ideal size and significant experience on the left side, making him a logical fit. This selection provides valuable insurance if Broderick Jones faces an extended return from injury, and World could even compete for a meaningful role as a rookie.
Round 4 | Pick 130 (via MIA): Kyle Louis, LB, Pittsburgh
One of the Steelers’ pre-draft visitors was Kyle Louis from the University of Pittsburgh. As a local prospect, he makes sense as a legitimate option for the team. After moving on from Queen, the linebacker position presents a clear need. Louis is a versatile hybrid defender capable of lining up at both safety and inside linebacker. Pittsburgh would be adding a valuable chess piece.
Round 4 | Pick 135 (comp.): Ephesians Prysock, CB, Washington
Rounding out this mock draft is Ephesians Prysock, who adds valuable depth at the cornerback position. While the secondary has been bolstered with quality additions through free agency, Pittsburgh could still benefit from drafting another corner to further strengthen the group.
Prysock will have time to develop during his rookie season, but his length and range give him an intriguing skill set that should fit well within the Steelers’ defensive framework.