The 2025 NFL Draft felt like a return to identity for the Pittsburgh Steelers. It was not flashy, but strategic—true to what makes this franchise different. They ignored outside pressure and stuck to what they knew: toughness, trench warfare, and long-term vision. I watched each pick roll in. I witnessed a plan built piece by piece.
They attacked needs with players who offer a solid floor but don't lack upside. Fortifying their defensive line and running game will set the tone for how they operate in 2025 and beyond, and taking a flyer on a National Champion quarterback could pay off one day.
Here’s where I believe each rookie could end up after their first season in black and gold.
Pittsburgh Steelers rookie projections for the 2025 season
First Round (No. 21): Derrick Harmon, DT
This was the tone-setter. Derrick Harmon looks like a future anchor for the Steelers' defense. On tape, you see someone who does not just plug gaps—he wrecks them. The idea of him learning behind Cam Heyward is a dream. He will rotate early, but I expect him to be a starter eventually.
His motor and strength are legit. Harmon will finish his rookie year as one of the more impactful defensive rookies in the AFC North, laying the groundwork to lead the next Steelers D-line era.
Second Round (No. 83): Kaleb Johnson, RB
This might be the best-value pick of the entire draft for Pittsburgh. Kaleb Johnson is a hard-nosed, explosive runner who never fumbles. This matters. The Steelers have not had a consistent running game in years, and Johnson has the skills to fix that.
He will split carries with Jaylen Warren, but by the season’s end, he could eventually become the feature back. He runs like a blend of Najee Harris' physicality and Le’Veon Bell’s patience.
Fourth Round (No. 123): Jack Sawyer, OLB
Passing on Shedeur Sanders at this spot was a bold move. But Jack Sawyer is no consolation prize—he’s a future star. His technique and energy scream Pittsburgh football. Add in T.J. Watt as a mentor, and this pick could age beautifully.
I think Sawyer contributes in special teams and pass-rushing packages and earns about 3–4 sacks in limited snaps.
Fifth Round (No. 164): Yahya Black, DT
At first glance, a second defensive tackle seemed redundant. But Yahya Black has a different vibe than Harmon—more of a space-eating nose tackle, but also nimble. His tape reminded me of Casey Hampton.
If he develops, I could see him in a key rotation role late in the season, especially against run-heavy teams. This one might be a slow burn, but I am intrigued.
Sixth Round (No. 185): Will Howard, QB
This was the moment I leaned forward in my seat. Will Howard, a proven champion, fall to the sixth round? The Steelers scooped him up like a team that knew exactly what they were doing. He will not start in 2025, and I am glad.
He needs seasoning, but his leadership, mobility, and IQ make him a dark horse to be the next long-term quarterback. In two years, we may deem this the biggest steal.
Seventh Round (No. 226): Carson Bruener, LB
Carson Bruener feels like a Steeler. His father played here, and the legacy continues with a kid who tackles like he has something to prove. He is not flashy, but he’s solid and smart. Bruener will find a home on special teams and work in sub-packages, especially in short-yardage situations.
Seventh Round (No. 229): Donte Kent, CB
The Steelers needed youth in the secondary, and Donte Kent gives them just that. He’s raw, but his speed and competitiveness stand out. He’ll develop behind Darius Slay Sr. and get limited reps his rookie year, likely on special teams. But with the right coaching, I could see him carving out a long-term role as Beanie Bishop Jr did.
The Steelers didn’t chase headlines with this draft—they built the future. I truly believe several of these rookies will make an impact. A few could become foundational pieces for years. If development stays on track, this could be the draft we look back on as the start of the next great run.