It was an impressive start to free agency for the Pittsburgh Steelers. They opened with several notable additions, including Rico Dowdle and Jamel Dean. Pittsburgh also pulled off a major trade for Michael Pittman Jr., acquiring him from the Colts and immediately securing him with a contract extension. A few smaller moves have been announced since.
Although free agency has been exciting, the Steelers have traditionally found their greatest success through the draft.
In this mock draft, the Steelers work through five simulated rounds and come away with excellent selections. They balance positional needs with strong value picks throughout. A draft class like this would be a dream outcome for Pittsburgh. Pairing these rookies with their recent free‑agency additions would make for an unexpectedly impressive offseason haul.
Pittsburgh Steelers post-Free Agency 5-round Mock Draft creates flawless class
Round 1: Makai Lemon, WR, USC
If Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson, or Makai Lemon were to fall to the Steelers in Round 1, that would almost certainly be their pick. It’s unlikely, but in this mock draft Lemon slipped to No. 21 overall. Pittsburgh tried multiple times to trade up, but no team was willing to move.
Lemon is a dynamic playmaker with the ball in his hands, offering a level of explosiveness that neither DK Metcalf nor Michael Pittman brings to the table.
Round 2: A.J. Haulcy, S, LSU
Aside from signing Darnell Savage in free agency, the Steelers largely overlooked the safety position. They showed interest at the NFL Combine, suggesting it could become an early draft priority. A.J. Haulcy is a strong fit to help address that need, and landing him at this point in the second round would be excellent value. Haulcy is a turnover creator who isn’t afraid to deliver a big hit.
Round 3 (via Cowboys): Sam Roush, TE, Stanford
The Steelers already have Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington on the roster, but they could still use additional help. Sam Roush is a surprising choice here, as it may feel a little early in the mock draft to select a tight end. However, Pittsburgh will soon need to re-sign Washington to a massive contract, which could force a difficult decision regarding Freiermuth.
Bringing in Roush now would give them a smooth succession plan.
READ MORE: Steelers post-Combine 7-round mock draft features bold trade-up
Round 3: Keylan Rutledge, OG, Georgia Tech
Beyond addressing safety, the franchise is in serious need of help along the offensive line. Keylan Rutledge would immediately bolster their biggest weakness after Isaac Seumalo’s departure in free agency. While it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Steelers bring in a veteran to fill the gap, the NFL Draft offers strong value. Rutledge fits exactly what Pittsburgh has been looking for up front.
Round 3 (comp. pick): Markel Bell, OT, Miami
He was the first of their 30 pre-draft visitors, so it’s clear the Steelers have interest in Markel Bell.
He is a massive left tackle prospect and offers outstanding value in this mock draft. The news surrounding Broderick Jones’s neck injury is concerning and could keep him out longer than expected. Bell is not a finished product entering the draft, but he has an incredibly high ceiling.
Round 4: Rayshaun Benny, DT, Michigan
Investing in the trenches is something the Steelers should prioritize in every draft. Rayshaun Benny fits the mold of the physical traits they look for along the defensive line. He showed promising flashes during his first season as a starter at Michigan, and he stepped onto the field early. The Steelers need to reinforce their defensive line, and Benny would be a strong addition.
Round 4 (comp. pick): Jalon Kilgore, CB, South Carolina
While the team added pieces in free agency, they could still use more help at cornerback. They have Jalen Ramsey and Brandin Echols as slot options, but they need additional depth in case Ramsey has to move to safety. Jalen Kilgore is one of the better slot cornerbacks in the upcoming draft.
Kilgore should step into a depth role right away and eventually work his way into a starting spot.
Round 5: Kevin Coleman Jr., WR, Missouri
At this point in the mock draft, Pittsburgh already has Pittman, Metcalf, Lemon, Roman Wilson, and Ben Skowronek in the mix. That gives them five receivers, but adding more competition would still be a smart move. Kevin Coleman Jr. is an ideal mid-round option who could push for a roster spot. He is a tough slot receiver who has learned how to play bigger than his size.