Once the 2023 NFL draft concluded, many had the Pittsburgh Steelers haul as one of the best coming out of the event. They built a strong rookie class, hoping they would help quarterback Kenny Pickett in his second year of NFL duties. A lot has changed in the two years since this class was selected. It has given us much evaluation time with this group as they go into a massive year.
It's shocking that the Steelers still have all seven players from this draft class on the roster heading into year three. That is uncommon for most rookie groups at this point in their careers. While they might not be as fantastic a class as some teased after the 2023 NFL draft, they are respectable.
Inconsistencies have plagued the Steelers 2023 draft crop, and that needs to change.
Grading the Pittsburgh Steelers' inconsistent 2023 draft class
Steelers 2023 NFL Draft Round 1: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia
Fans rejoiced when Steelers general manager Omar Khan traded up to land Broderick Jones in the first round, but it turned around and bit him. Mike Tomlin and his coaching staff are part of the problem, but Jones shares plenty of the blame.
He will get his first shot at starting at left tackle after playing his entire career on his right side. If Jones fails to be a solid starter this season, it'll be time to move on.
Jones hasn't been great during his starts, and trading up for a raw tackle has proven to be an erratic decision.
Players they could've selected: Will McDonald IV (EDGE), Jordan Addison (WR), Christian Gonzalez (CB)
Steelers 2023 NFL Draft Round 2: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
It's still hard to believe Khan turned Chase Claypool into Joey Porter Jr. No matter where Porter's career goes from here, he has proven to be the better player between the two. Pittsburgh chose good business, which landed them a top cornerback on defense.
Inconsistencies continue to haunt Porter, but he remains one of the best young cornerbacks in the NFL.
Players they could've selected: Brian Branch (S), Sam LaPorta (TE)
READ MORE: Re-grading Steelers' recent first-round draft picks is a debilitating chore
Steelers 2023 NFL Draft Round 2: Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin
Keeanu Benton could have a perfect situation now that the Steelers cut Larry Ogunjobi. Benton could become the starter next to Cam Heyward, allowing him to produce a breakout campaign. The role player has been a terrific nose tackle for their defense, but expectations for Benton should be sky-high. The young defensive tackle could continue to trend upward with more snaps.
Players they could've selected: Jayden Reed (WR)
Steelers 2023 NFL Draft Round 3: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
Darnell Washington was considered one of the best "value picks" in the 2023 NFL draft. While he has proven himself as a solid selection, he hasn't done much other than become a reliable blocker. That's easier said than done in the NFL, but you'd like to see a big target like Washington become more dynamic in the passing game.
Khan made a good choice by taking Washington, but the Steelers could use more out of him.
Players they could've selected: Dawand Jones (OT)
Steelers 2023 NFL Draft Round 4: Nick Herbig, EDGE, Wisconsin
He might not be a starter, but Nick Herbig is the Energizer Bunny on defense. Both T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith eat most of the snaps off the edge, but Herbig finds different ways to make an impact. Everyone should expect Herbig to improve with each passing year.
He continues to develop and become a well-rounded player. Depending on how things go, he could become a starter down the line for the Steelers or elsewhere.
Players they could've selected: Puka Nacua (WR)
Steelers 2023 NFL Draft Round 7: Cory Trice, CB, Purdue
When you get to the seventh round of any draft, the possibility of landing a star player is unlikely. The Steelers did well by taking Cory Trice at this point in the draft, who was also considered a "value pick." Trice continues to be hampered by injuries during his NFL career, which was an issue during his college stint. If Trice stays on the field, he could become a role player.
Players they could've selected: N/A
Steelers 2023 NFL Draft Round 7: Spencer Anderson, OL, Maryland
You can never have enough offensive linemen anymore.
Spencer Anderson was the final selection of the Steelers 2023 NFL draft. He has become a versatile depth piece in the trenches for Pittsburgh. Even though he might never be a starter, he can fill a spot at either guard spot or center as needed. Anderson might not be a slam-dunk pick, but he was good value for what he brings at this point in the draft.