There aren't many people out there who can say that the Pittsburgh Steelers have had an unsuccessful 2023 NFL Draft up to this point. Three key needs were addressed and the organization is arguably having the best draft throughout the entire AFC. Offensive lineman, Broderick Jones, cornerback, Joey Porter Jr. and defensive lineman, Keeanu Benton are all going to represent the Steel City on Sundays in 2023.
General Manager, Omar Khan and Head Coach, Mike Tomlin continued an incredible offseason with the 93rd overall pick.
Steelers general manager, Omar Khan speaks to members of the media at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, IN. Photo Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski / USA Today
Pittsburgh traded the 80th overall selection to the Carolina Panthers for the 93rd and 132nd picks. This was crucial for the franchise as picks in the fourth, fifth and sixth rounds were nonexistent. Now, the team still grabbed a solid player and added an addition selection that was much needed in the middle rounds with 132.
The trade didn't necessarily affect Pittsburgh's plans. Khan and co. drafted University of Georgia tight end, Darnell Washington to address another key need. Pat Freiermuth isn't going anywhere, but the front office is clearly focusing on putting as many weapons around young quarterback, Kenny Pickett, as possible.
Pittsburgh ends up taking another player from Georgia. George Pickens was taken in 2022 and that was followed by Jones in the first round on Thursday and now Washington on Friday evening.
University of Georgia tight end, Darnell Washington (#0) catches a touchdown over a University of Alabama defender. | Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images
Washington reportedly dropped in the draft due to a knee injury, but after three solid seasons at Georgia and having an incredible upside, the Steelers continue to build out an impressive and underrated roster with the addition of Washington.
Do you like the pick in Washington? Let us know in the comments below!
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