We're getting closer and closer to the 2023 NFL Draft, and the Pittsburgh Steelers will look to build on what has been a phenomenal offseason thus far. Despite several key signings in free agency, the black and gold still have some glaring holes on its roster. Without further ado, let's begin this full, seven-round mock draft:
AP Photo / Butch Dill
American offensive lineman Darnell Wright of Tennessee (58) during the first half of the Senior Bowl NCAA college football game Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023, in Mobile, Alabama.
Round 1 - Pick #17: Tennessee offensive tackle Darnell Wright
- Others considered: Brian Branch, Deonte Banks
There may be some better options here, but that's if some of the top prospects fall into the Steelers' lap. Branch and Joey Porter Jr. probably remain the most likely picks at this point, but our very own Parker Abate recently mocked the Alabama safety at 17. As a result, I opted for Tennessee offensive tackle Darnell Wright, who addresses a key need right away. Trading back with this first-round pick may even be the best option for the Steelers front office.
Round 2 - Pick #32: Mississippi State cornerback Emmanuel Forbes
- Others considered: Josh Downs, Bryan Bresee
Branch falling to this spot would be ideal, but instead, the Steelers snag a much-needed young cornerback. Forbes could be in play at 17, but getting him at 32 is better value. Based off his small size, there is some concern in regards to his translation to the next level. His ball-hawking abilities are enough to take a risk here to start the second round, while CB also overrides other needs at WR and safety.
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Mississippi State cornerback Emmanuel Forbes is an intriguing option in the first two rounds for the Steelers.
Round 2 - Pick #49: Iowa linebacker Jack Campbell
- Others considered: Trenton Simpson, Antonio Johnson
This is where things really start to get difficult, as the team could go several different ways. Defensive line, wide receiver, safety, and wideout are all positions that could have made sense. As a result, Khan and co. should simply go with the best player available here. Despite the signings of Cole Holcomb and Elandon Roberts this offseason, linebacker is still a need, both depth-wise and long-term.
Campbell fills just that and tested quite well at the 2023 NFL Combine. His RAS came out at 9.98, quite impressive for the two-time All-American linebacker. He tested better than some thought, and that only added to his legitimate production on the field. Campbell wouldn't have to start right away, as he could ease his way into the starting lineup with Holcomb and Roberts vetting him in 2023.
Round 3 - Pick #80: Wisconsin defensive lineman Keeanu Benton
- Others considered: Kayshon Boutte, Keondre Coburn
Depending on where he goes, LSU wideout Kayshon Boutte could be a huge high-upside pick here. Instead, the Steelers address an aging defensive line. Benton would be another value pick here, as he could very well be picked before #80 overall. The recent signings of Breiden Fehoko and Armon Watts should not prevent the front office from addressing this position early. The black and gold hosted Benton for a top-30 visit, as there has been interest there for a few months now.
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Keeanu Benton (#95) celebrates a big stop in Camp Randall, Wisconsin.
Round 4 - Pick #120: Michigan State wide receiver Jayden Reed
- Others considered: Xavier Hutchinson, Jonathan Mingo
The Steelers desperately need another playmaker at the wide receiver position, most specifically in the slot. With the positions already selected, WR should be the priority here. The Steelers have shown a plethora in middle-round options, like Reed, Mingo, and Hutchinson. While Mingo's size is appealing, Reed feels like the more natural pick here in the slot.
Round 7 - Pick #234: Iowa State defensive back Anthony Johnson Jr.
- Others considered: Brandon Hill, Robert Beal
Johnson transitioned from cornerback to safety for his final year in college, where he enjoyed a successful career. He could become a core special teamer at the very least, with some potential to contribute in limited packages on defense. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin and a few more scouts attended Johnson's Pro Day in Ames, where they were seen coaching the DB up.
Round 7 - Pick #241: Houston quarterback Clayton Tune
- Others considered: Sean Clifford, Stetson Bennett
Over the last few weeks, the Steelers haven't been shy about their interest in selecting a late-round quarterback. There should be several names available here, but the Steelers have already visited with Tune. The interest is there, and he threw for an impressive 11,994 yards and 104 touchdown passes in 47 collegiate games.
AP Photo / Butch Dill
Clayton Tune (#3) drops back to pass in his successful collegiate career.
Should Steelers go safety earlier?
Safety could have been addressed earlier in the draft, but it's likely that a key position of need gets shorted in the Steelers' upcoming draft, unless if they recoup some more middle-round picks. The recent signing of Keanu Neal, in addition to the re-signing of Damontae Kazee, should provide temporary fill-ins for the team to go all-in on a safety next offseason. Edge is a need too, but Bud Dupree still seems likely to return to Pittsburgh.
What are your thoughts on this mock draft? Should the defensive line have been addressed? Do you think the Steelers will make a trade at some point in the 2023 NFL Draft? Share your thoughts in the comment section below, yinz!
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