The Steelers offseason is slowly unfolding, and it appears as though the team is set to try and make the most of this abysmal offense. Owner Art Rooney gave his full support to the coaching staff and seems to think Pittsburgh didn’t have time to figure out their quarterback room. Thus, the plan seems to be to roll everything back for 2024.
For this mock draft, the Steelers decide to go all out to build the best possible offense for Kenny Pickett to play in. If it fails, it will ultimately be due to the quarterback play, and Pittsburgh will have their answers. Here is my latest mock draft featuring the Steelers going all in on the offense.
Steelers mock draft round 1: Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon
On paper, taking a receiver in the first round is rich. You already have Diontae Johnson and George Pickens there, so another prime investment seems almost foolish. That said, the receiver room is bare after the starters, and the offense is lacking a good slot option. Troy Franklin can fix all of those issues.
A taller, lankier prospect, Franklin found his groove with Bo Nix throwing him passes. He is coming off a monster season where he showed everything from deep-threat ability to refined route running to a nose for the end zone. Add in his elite speed and you have a receiver prospect that, in other drafts, is likely a top-ten pick.
With this rookie class set to be deep, it could allow the Steelers to land him with their first pick. He would be a fit on the outside but could also be a more conventional slot receiver. I’d start him there. Adding him gives the offense three dynamic receivers plus a good tight end. The leash would be rightfully short on the quarterback play.
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