It's pretty clear what the Pittsburgh Steelers needs are heading into the 2023 NFL Draft in late April. The offensive and defensive lines should be addressed as well as additions in the secondary and at wide receiver. It's very possible the organization drafts a quarterback, too. That's over half of the positions that could be targeted, but there are a few that no one is really talking about. The front office could surprise and catch the fanbase off guard if they go after prospects at any of the following positions.
Steelers general manager, Omar Khan speaks with reporters at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, IN as he approaches his first draft as the head of the front office. | Photo Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski / USA Today
1.) Running Back
The one-two punch of Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren should only get better in 2023, but with Benny Snell Jr. not expected to return, the third spot on the depth chart is in question. Anthony McFarland Jr. was signed to a Reserve/Futures contract and could take on the role, but it's going to be very difficult to replace Snell's special teams production.
A name to keep an eye on his University of Texas running back, Roschon Johnson. In college, he had top-ranked ball-carrier, Bijan Robinson ahead of him which limited his offensive opportunities, but he is going to have the ability to contribute right away on special teams at the professional level and has plenty of experience in that area.
2.) Tight End
Zach Gentry is back on a one-year deal, but Connor Heyward may enter more of a hybrid fullback role, leaving the future behind Pat Freiermuth in question. The team could take a stab at the position in the seventh round in an attempt to find a long-term solution as the second tight end. This all hinges on the coaching staff's plans for Heyward, however.
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end, Connor Heyward (#83) catches a pass during 2022 training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA. | Photo Credit: Jordan Schofield/SteelerNation / Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO
There are a ton of tight ends that are going to be available in the later rounds and the Steelers could decide to pass on one and address the need in the 2024 offseason, but it shouldn't be ruled out. It's also going to be tempting to stay away from one of the top prospects if one falls deep into the second round.
3.) Edge Rusher
This is less of a surprise given the team's current situation behind TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith. Jamir Jones contributed in 2022, but the status of this position will depend on two key factors. Do the Steelers plan to sign Bud Dupree and what does the future look like for Highsmith in the black and gold?
If Dupree comes in on a one-year deal and Highsmith is extended long-term, there's no real reason to go after an edge rusher, especially early on in the draft. The surprise here will come into play in regards to when the organization targets the position. Omar Khan and co. could very well surprise everyone and take someone like Lukas Van Ness with pick #17.
Former Iowa Hawkeyes' edge rusher, Lukas Van Ness (#91) goes after Illinois quarterback, Brandon Peters (#18). | Photo Credit: Steven Branscombe / USA TODAY Sports
Steelers Will Likely Continue An Offseason Of Addressing Key Needs
A surprise pick here and there is certainly possible, but the team isn't going to be going off script of what this offseason has been about: solidifying depth everywhere. If a top prospect at one of the above position falls, the Steelers may jump at the opportunity to select one given the value provided.
Do you think Pittsburgh will take any of the above positions in the 2023 NFL Draft? Let us know in the comments below!
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