Considering they didn't have their second-round pick thanks to the DK Metcalf trade, the Pittsburgh Steelers had a very impressive 2025 draft haul. First-round pick Derrick Harmon has already earned a starting job along the defensive line. Third-rounder Kaleb Johnson looks as advertised at running back, and even late-round picks Yahya Black and Will Howard have outplayed their expectations so far in camp.
Fourth-round pick Jack Sawyer, however, has a tough road ahead of him for any significant playing time. With the Steelers having a history of underutilizing their backup edge rushers, the Ohio State product may struggle to see the field regardless of how well he plays in camp.
Meanwhile, Kansas City Chiefs rookie wide receiver Jalen Royals has been very impressive at camp, and he would have had a real shot at major playing time had the Steelers picked him instead.
Mahomes connection with Jalen Royals early and often. Great to see! pic.twitter.com/5ZXRabFfCh
— The Kingdom’s Queens (@KingdomsQueens) July 27, 2025
Royals was picked 10 spots after Sawyer, and Steelers fans could start to wonder why he wasn't the pick if the current receivers struggle to start the season.
Pittsburgh Steelers could regret passing on the explosive Jalen Royals
Despite their transformative offseason, the Steelers still lack upside at key positions on their roster. Most notably, the wide receiver room is top-heavy, to put it nicely.
DK Metcalf is a good player, but he isn't a bona fide No.1 receiver that can do everything well. Other than the former Seattle Seahawk, Pittsburgh doesn't have a single receiver they can rely on. Calvin Austin III was productive last season, but that production was inconsistent at best. Roman Wilson played just five snaps all season, and Robert Woods is long past his prime.
Had they drafted Royals over Sawyer in the fourth round, I wouldn't have been shocked to hear that he was in line for major playing time at this point in training camp. He offers a size and speed combo that only Metcalf currently possesses, and he would fit right in as a catch-and-run threat for Aaron Rodgers to dump the ball off to.
In fairness, Sawyer is much more of a high-floor player. You know what you are likely getting with him, even if what that is doesn't inspire much confidence. Royals may have a higher chance of busting, but the potential reward of his skillset translating far exceeds what Sawyer could be, even in a best-case scenario.
The bottom line is that the Steelers have gotten away with lacking edge depth for years, and they could have simply added a low-cost veteran to fill the fourth edge role. Instead, they passed on a receiver who could have been the answer they are still searching for as the season draws closer.