As the Steelers get ready for their Week 1 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, their scouts are preparing for the draft. Pittsburgh has been doing well with the draft process since Omar Khan became General manager of the team. They have some highly regarded draft classes according to most experts, and those benefits will hopefully be seen on the field starting this year.
Even though the draft isn't until April, scouts and talent evaluators are on the road looking for the next great players for their franchise. The college football season will head into Week 2 of competition as their schedule remains in its infancy. There is a mix of talent and potential early into the season. Pittsburgh could have some quality options.
Since no games have been played, the draft simulator has them sitting in the middle of the pack at pick 14. That would be a disappointing season and could mean the first losing record by Mike Tomlin in his career if this pick becomes a reality. The Steelers do trade back in this scenario with the Chargers as they have plenty of quality prospects left on their board.
Steelers mock draft round 1: Carson Beck, QB, Georgia
A new franchise quarterback of the future after a trade back? That would be great! Carson Beck is the selection here as the Georgia product seems primed for a breakout year with the Bulldogs. If he can play at the level many believe that he can this season, and help them secure a championship, then he will remain one of the top quarterbacks of this class.
Steelers mock draft round 2: Will Sheppard, WR, Colorado
Not Travis Hunter here, but Will Sheppard his teammate is a great choice to kick off the second round of this mock draft. He started his career at Vanderbilt where he was able to produce respectable numbers even though he played on a bad team. His lone year in Colorado this time around is a great opportunity for him to produce career-high numbers.
Steelers mock draft round 2: Terrance Furgeson, TE, Oregon
Even if the Steelers can re-sign Pat Freiermuth, they might need to look at rookie options to join their tight-end group. Terrance Furgeson might be the best choice at this point in the mock draft for Pittsburgh. He is a big guy who is athletic for his size. He is coming into his Senior year, and he could rise draft boards if he produces his best numbers yet.
Steelers mock draft round 3: Nicholas Singleton, RB, Penn State
One part of the two-headed monster at running back for Penn State. Nicholas Singleton would be a great option to replace Najee Harris. Even though Singleton is more of a speed back, he has shown some power before. A duo of him and Steelers current back Jaylen Warren would be a terrific duo. Singleton is a nice get at this point in the mock draft.
Steelers mock draft round 5: Duce Chestnut, CB, Syracuse
After becoming a defensive star at Syracuse during his first two seasons, Duce Chestnut transferred to LSU. He battled a shoulder injury last year and then decided to jump back to Syracuse for this season. He was a star there before and he is looking to return to form. Chestnut is a cornerback who has flashed versatility throughout his college career.
Steelers mock draft round 5: Xavier Truss, OL, Georgia
Adding some depth to the trenches here for the Steelers by taking Xavier Truss. He is someone with a lot of experience starting at guard and tackle. With Dan Moore Jr. becoming a free agent after the season, it would be wise for the Steelers to draft a potential swing tackle late. Truss is a solid run blocker who could provide options for Pittsburgh's roster moving forward.
Steelers mock draft round 7: DJ Uiagalelei, QB, Florida State
Not a great start to the season for Florida State or DJ Uiagalelei. The quarterback transferred from Clemson this past year to try and help the Seminoles reach the playoffs, but those hopes already seemed dashed heading into Week 2 of the college campaign. He might not be great, but he is a former highly sought-after prospect who could provide depth to the quarterback room.
Steelers mock draft round 7: Zavier Restrepo, WR, Miami
Pittsburgh concludes this mock draft by adding another weapon on offense with receiver being a problem. They go with Zavier Restrepo out of Miami. He has shown progress and should be set up for a big season. He got near the 1,000 receiving yards mark last season and should surpass it this time around. Restrepo is a small target, but he has shown to be an explosive player.