Is it too late for Pittsburgh to bounce back? This article breaks down the ideal outcome of the 2025 NFL Draft for the Pittsburgh Steelers. There will not be trades involved; however, if a trade-back is ideal, it will absolutely be mentioned along with a potential target.
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Round One (21st Overall) Dream Target: Omarion Hampton, RB, UNC
Quarterback absolutely is an option. If Aaron Rodgers joins the team, getting a backup in the first in this weak class would not be ideal. Not one bit.
Hampton was a one-man wrecking crew for the Tarheels. Arthur Smith’s run-heavy approach will perfectly utilize his skillset.
Running back round one is not ideal to most, but don’t scout just his position. Hampton is special.
Round Three (80th Overall) Dream Target: T.J. Sanders, DI, South Carolina
The defensive line needs some attention. Sanders is a punchy pass rusher with flashes in run defense.
South Carolina had an all-star level defensive line, and he was a major piece of it.
With Cam Heyward aging (albeit gracefully), some young talent is needed.
Round Four (123rd Overall) Dream Target: Ozzy Trapilo, OT, Boston College
When will the Steelers put a right tackle at right tackle? Tomlin and co. continue to put left tackles out of position. It is no surprise they struggle.
Trapilo was rock solid for Boston College. His anchor and balanced blocking style brings a high floor that Steelers fans yearn for.
It is about time the line gets completed.
Round Five (156th Overall) Dream Target: Will Howard, QB, Ohio State
The gap between Shedeur Sanders in the first and Will Howard on day three is hilariously small.
The Ohio State product was far from perfect, but he stepped up big time in the biggest moments. NFL-level throws popped up everywhere.
Combine that with his athletic foundation, and an NFL quarterback emerges. With backup prices being upwards of $8 Million, this is also a cost-effective move.
Round Six (185th Overall) Dream Target: Jaylin Smith, CB, USC
Smith is an absolute gem.
This is an excerpt from our article breaking down day three starters: “Jaylin Smith brings ferocity, tenacity, and versatility at the cornerback position. He has experience both in the slot and on the boundary (albeit his most recent year-the year he transitioned to boundary corner-was his best year per PFF). Combine that with his blend of physicality and zone instincts, and you get a prospect that seamlessly fits into most systems. ”
Combine that with Smith’s ability to play safety (he did well on many occasions), and he becomes the dream target on day three for Pittsburgh.
It is a no-brainer.
Round Seven (229th Overall) Dream Target: Deone Walker, DI, Kentucky
Walker used to be a first-round pick.
Some still have him listed as a fringe day-two prospect, but he could easily slip this far.
Medicals hampered the Kentucky product this year. Walker’s overall profile could inspire defensive coaches to reach for his upside, but the thin lower frame and tall play height create a low-floor that scare most from taking that risk.
Tomlin is one of the few who can take that risk. His eye for talent and potential should find this prospect extremely enticing.
A true nose tackle is needed for the future. Walker may be the answer.
