The NFL Draft is right around the corner, and with free agency finally settling down after a chaotic start, the Steelers must now turn their attention to their draft strategy for 2025. This year’s draft, along with next year’s, will play a crucial role in determining the team’s future as they look to move past their recent mediocrity.
After acquiring DK Metcalf and sending their second-round pick to Seattle, the Steelers now have a big decision to make. Here’s a trade-back mock draft where Pittsburgh gains valuable Day 2 capital while filling major roster needs.
The Pittsburgh Steelers trade back twice to address key needs in the latest mock draft
The Steelers trade back with the Washington Commanders to recoup the 2nd-round pick they lost in the DK Metcalf trade. With a deep defensive line draft class, Pittsburgh can afford to move back and regain that valuable draft capital.
Another trade back!
The Steelers trade out of the first round entirely, sending the pick to the Patriots in exchange for an additional 2nd and 3rd-rounder. With the first five teams in the 2nd round selecting players the Steelers weren't likely to target, they’re able to secure their top choice—a player they likely considered taking in the first round before trading back twice.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 2: Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss
The Steelers were always planning to draft a defensive lineman with their first pick, and Walter Nolen had long been a player they seemed high on, especially after impressing at the Senior Bowl. This situation couldn’t have played out more perfectly, with Pittsburgh trading back twice to land a player they truly valued at a position of need—while also gaining extra 2nd and 3rd-round picks in the process.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 2: Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss
The Steelers select another Ole Miss Rebel in Jaxson Dart, a quarterback they’ve reportedly shown strong interest in. With the Aaron Rodgers saga still unresolved and uncertainty surrounding the starting QB position, it’s unclear who will lead Pittsburgh’s offense.
If worst-case scenarios unfold and neither Rodgers nor Russell Wilson is signed, the Steelers will likely draft a QB early, with Mason Rudolph brought back as a fallback option. With their late 2nd-round pick, Pittsburgh wisely selects the best available QB in Dart. If needed, Dart could see the field as a starter, providing Pittsburgh with valuable insight into their QB future heading into next season.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 3: TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State
With Najee Harris departing for the Los Angeles Chargers, the Steelers still need to secure a future starting-caliber running back, despite the signing of Kenneth Gainwell and the 2nd-round tender on Jaylen Warren.
Enter TreyVeyon Henderson, a former national champion and a complete back who brings dynamic playmaking ability to the Steelers offense. This selection creates a potent RB trio, and if Warren is extended after next season, it will give Pittsburgh a dynamic, explosive duo to drive their backfield forward.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 3: Cobee Bryant, CB, Kansas
With their second third-round pick, the Steelers look to strengthen the cornerback room. While they’ve already bolstered the position with two free-agent signings, including Darius Slay Jr., who will start opposite Joey Porter Jr., Pittsburgh must plan for the future.
At 34 years old, Slay is likely playing his final season in the NFL. Cobee Bryant offers great potential as a depth piece, with the opportunity to develop into a key contributor down the line.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 4: Ozzy Trapilo, OT, Boston College
Tackle may be a quiet position of need for the Steelers, but depth behind Troy Fauntau and Broderick Jones is essential. Ozzy Trapilo, who has experience at both tackle spots and boasts excellent size, provides valuable versatility.
With Broderick Jones facing struggles just two years into his career, Trapilo offers a promising option for development should Jones' performance not improve. Pittsburgh values linemen who can play multiple positions, and this pick makes too much sense to pass up.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 5: J.J Pegues, DT, Ole Miss
With their final pick of the draft, the Steelers select their third Ole Miss Rebel—J.J. Pegues. Pittsburgh likely doubles down on the defensive line due to a lack of depth, and Pegues would be an exciting selection to pair with Walter Nolen for future development.
Pegues' versatility is a standout trait, as he can play multiple roles along the defensive line and even served as the short-yardage running back at Ole Miss. Pegues could become the Steelers’ multifaceted weapon, contributing both as a fullback and a rotational player along the defensive line.