The Pittsburgh Steelers have historically given us fans some great drafts during the Kevin Colbert era. This year, we will get to see what Omar Khan can do in his first NFL Draft as the lead man. One of the big things to look for in this year's draft is addressing the offensive line. Cornerback, linebacker, wide receiver, and the defensive interior are some of the other considerations to look for. This could make the Steelers draft look very similar to the historic 2002 class.
Sporting News
With the Steelers' first pick in the 2002 NFL Draft, they went with guard Kendall Simmons. Simmons would go on to be a starter for Super Bowl XL, then would be a part of Super Bowl XLIII as well, but would be injured. All in all, he had a solid career with the Steelers. But with their second-round pick, they would bring in a perfect partner for Hines Ward in Antwaan Randle El.
Randle El's impact with the Steelers was short-lived, but he was a difference-maker. During his time in Pittsburgh, he would be a part of the All-Rookie Team, as well as being an All-Pro as a punt returner. The Steelers could look for someone like Randle El in this year's draft, especially to fill the rule of being a return man.
Pick 94 brought Chris Hope to the squad. Hope was a solid player and was a key part of the Super Bowl XL team. The Steelers would lose him however to Tennessee Titans where he would grow his career. In his first year, he would lead the team in interceptions, then go on to be a Pro Bowler.
AP
Steelers safeties Chris Hope and Troy Polamalu
In the fourth-round, the Steelers would bring in linebacker, Larry Foote. Foote took the reigns of the Steelers linebacker spot the moment he joined the team. He would play a big role in the franchise and would play for Pittsburgh up until 2009. He finished with two Super Bowls and a very solid career.
The Steelers' next three picks, Verron Haynes, Lee Mays, and Lavar Glover, were never anything special for the Steelers. Haynes had a decent career while in Pittsburgh, but never broke out due to the great running backs that the Steelers had at the time. But what made this draft so special was at pick number 242.
Steelers linebacker, James Harrison sacking Ravens quarterback, Joe Flacco. (Gene J. Puskar/Associated Press)
Harrison was a once-in-a-generation talent in Pittsburgh. He had multiple Pro Bowls, All-Pro teams, two Super Bowls, and a Defensive Player of the Year Award just to name some of the accomplishments he had. To pick up a player like this as an undrafted free agent makes the pickup even more special.
This class was truly something amazing and brought in many big names to the Steelers. With many positions that Pittsburgh drafted in 2002 similar to what is needed in 2023, could we possibly see another historic draft like this?
Do you think that the Steelers can replicate what they did in 2002? Let us know in the comments below!
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