The Pittsburgh Steelers have a lot of needs as they start gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft. Obviously, the wide receiver spot is going to be one of those needs that gets attacked early. Many draft experts believe the Steelers could target a wide receiver in the first round when they pick 21st overall. If that’s the case, several exciting prospects should be available, including Ohio State star Emeka Egbuka, who has been turning heads with his performance and football IQ.
Jay LaPrete / Associated Press
Emeka Egbuka hauls in a pass for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Egbuka played a pivotal role in helping the Buckeyes secure the 2024 National Championship. Known for his precise route running and big-play ability, Egbuka was a go-to target in critical moments. Beyond his on-field production, his recent viral video on social media showcased his football intelligence, breaking down a play that led to a game-changing moment. In the clip, he detailed how watching film during the game against Notre Dame led to the iconic 56-yard pass from quarterback Will Howard to Jeremiah Smith.
Adding a player like Egbuka would bring immediate impact to a Steelers wide receiver room that has struggled to find consistent production. His ability to diagnose defenses, coupled with his explosive athleticism, makes him an ideal fit for an offense looking to take the next step. For a team aiming to rebuild its aerial attack, Egbuka’s combination of talent and football IQ could make him the perfect first-round selection.
Emeka Egbuka spoke Will Howard’s 56-yard pass to Jeremiah Smith on 3rd-and-11 (“3rd-and-Jeremiah”) into existence while watching film earlier in the game.
— Josh Poloha (@JorshP) January 28, 2025
“We need to run a go-ball on 29. … Look at the inside leverage he has when (Carnell Tate’s) attacking him.” pic.twitter.com/EMEN82BRxR
In 2024, Egbuka recorded 81 receptions for 1,011 yards and 10 touchdowns, showcasing his reliability and big-play potential. Beyond the numbers, he’s a team-first player with a strong work ethic and an impressive football IQ. Egbuka fully commits to the collective success of his team, valuing the offense's overall performance over individual stats. His selfless approach and ability to elevate those around him make him a near-perfect fit for what the Steelers need at wide receiver, as he checks every box both on and off the field.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' George Pickens makes an incredible touchdown catch against the Washington Commanders in Week 10 of the 2024 season.
The Steelers' wide receiver situation heading into the 2025 season will be fascinating to watch. Calvin Austin III showed significant improvement in 2024, flashing his potential, but he’ll need to take another step forward in terms of consistent production. Meanwhile, George Pickens is entering the final year of his rookie contract, making him a pending free agent after the season. The Steelers may even explore trading Pickens during the 2025 offseason if they believe he doesn’t align with their long-term plans, adding another layer of intrigue to their wide receiver outlook.
Steelers Need To Take A Wide Receiver Early In 2025 Draft
Pickens is undeniably talented, but his attitude and inconsistent effort have, at times, frustrated Steelers fans. Adding a team-first wide receiver like Egbuka could not only bolster the offense but also serve as a positive influence on Pickens. Steelers fans are eager to see their team recapture the days when their offense struck fear into opposing secondaries with a high-powered passing attack.
Rick Osentoski / USA Today
Buckeyes' Emeka Egbuka stands with his hands on his hips during a home game in Ohio.
After several seasons of underwhelming offensive performance, investing in a star wide receiver early in the 2025 NFL Draft could be a game-changer for Pittsburgh. Egbuka’s combination of talent, work ethic, and selfless mentality might be exactly what the Steelers need to ignite their offense and restore it to its former glory.
Another key storyline for the Steelers is the status of rookie wide receiver Roman Wilson, who suffered an injury early in the 2024 offseason. Wilson managed to suit up for just one game last season, leaving Steelers fans eager to see more of his potential. As he enters his second year in 2025, there’s plenty of curiosity surrounding how he’ll fit into the offense and whether he can carve out a meaningful role.
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