3 directions Steelers could go at safety after losing Terrell Edmunds

3. Steelers could take a safety at the top of the NFL Draft

The third and final option is my least favorite of the three. After losing former first-round pick Terrell Edmunds in free agency, I think it would be an overcorrection to take a safety with one of their top two picks.

Many fans like the idea of bolstering their secondary with Alabama safety, Brian Branch. While Branch admittedly has great college film, he doesn't have the size, length, or athletic profile that projects him as a superstar at the next level. At 5'11'' and 190 pounds with 30 3/4'' arms and 4.58 speed, I think Branch should move down draft boards more than he has.

The Steelers may view Branch as a versatile safety who can also play cornerback and help fill the void left by Cameron Sutton in the slot. However, Kazee already does some of those things well, and they don't need to spend a first-round pick on replacing that player.

Branch is the clear top safety in the draft this year, but I don't view him in the Minkah Fitzpatrick or Derwin James level in terms of prospects entering the NFL Draft. Because of that, I think taking him at pick 17 is too rich. Outside of Branch, I don't like any other safety at pick 32 this year either, as I feel the Steelers would be reaching for need.

It's clear that the Pittsburgh Steelers need to add some safety help after losing Terrell Edmunds. My preference would be to do so in free agency and save their valuable draft picks for more important money positions in the 2023 NFL Draft.