Round 7 - Pick 251 (from Los Angeles Rams) - Spencer Anderson, OL, Maryland
Grade: C+
Spencer Anderson flew under the radar for most of the NFL, as only eight other players were drafted after him in 2023. But Steelers coach Mike Tomlin knew about him, as his son Dino played at Maryland before transferring to Boston College.
Anderson (6-5, 305) was a five-year player for the Terrapins, playing nearly every position along the offensive line there, including center. He spent most of his time at right guard as a senior last season, serving as a solid run blocker and capable pass protector.
At his Pro Day, Anderson posted a 30.5-inch vertical jump and a 113-inch broad jump. He also had 29 bench presses and ran a 5.18 40-yard dash according to NFLDraftBuzz.com.
Considering the depth the Steelers have at the guard position, it's likely that Anderson will challenge for a backup role to Mason Cole at center. He also has experience playing tackle, so there's a possibility he could be backup on the right end of the line.
In either case, as a seventh-round draft pick, Anderson will have to impress the Steelers' coaching staff in some way at training camp in order to make the team. He's definitely capable of doing so, and in the process pushing former third-round draft choice Kendrick Green off the roster.
I felt strongly that the Steelers would take two offensive linemen in this draft, but I didn't think they would take their second this late in the draft. In this case, Anderson is a good player, but I would have rather seen the Steelers select a slot cornerback, inside linebacker, or a true center. That's the main reason why this pick isn't graded higher.