Steelers Were Stunned Yahya Black Was Still Available In 5th Round Of 2025 NFL Draft

When Omar Khan and the Pittsburgh Steelers’ front office watched the clock tick during fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, they believed their target would be long gone. Instead, Yahya Black, a massive run-stuffer from Iowa, somehow remained on the board at pick 164. Pittsburgh values size, versatility, and cultural fit. Black had been on the radar, drawing praise from Steelers scouts for his raw power, discipline, and ability to plug gaps on early downs. 

With defensive tackle depth a quiet but growing concern heading into the summer, his unexpected availability gave the team a rare opportunity to grab a player it felt embodied the traits of a true Steeler. As Khan would later admit, they didn’t expect Black to still be there, but when he was, the choice was instant.

The Steelers had already secured Derrick Harmon in the first round, Kaleb Johnson in third, and Jack Sawyer in the fourth, and all moves emphasized physicality and depth. Bolstering their interior defensive line with Black aligned perfectly with that strategy. In the latest episode of The Standard, Khan detailed being surprised that Black was still available in the fifth round.

“Like the other guys, the spring told us that this guy was a Steeler, and he was sitting there,” Khan said. “I can’t tell you we thought he’d still be sitting there in the fifth round, and he was sitting there, and the pick was easy."

Khan’s words aren’t just giving insight; they’re a window into the Steelers’ player evaluation philosophy. When he says “the spring told us that this guy was a Steeler,” he’s referencing more than just on-field traits. Pittsburgh places a premium on players who align with its locker room culture, physical toughness, and coach-ability. Black’s quiet but focused demeanor, paired with his reputation for doing the dirty work in the trenches at Iowa, made him an internal favorite well before draft day. 

The fact that he was still sitting there at pick 164 wasn’t a case of the Steelers reaching or settling it was the board unexpectedly bending their way. The phrase “the pick was easy” isn’t just casual language; it reflects a decision rooted in confidence in their board.

Although Black projects primarily as a two-down player early in his NFL career, his athleticism, while not elite, offers more versatility than many give him credit for. At 6'6", 336 pounds and an enormous wingspan, he has the length and strength to take on double teams and plug gaps inside, particularly in goal-line or short-yardage situations. His frame and power also make him an intriguing option for interior rotations, allowing the Steelers to stay fresh across the defensive front. 

Some within the organization believe he could carve out a special-teams role as well, specifically on field-goal block units, where his reach and timing could create chaos in the middle. Despite pre-draft grades from some analysts labeling him as a developmental or scheme-limited prospect, many inside the Steelers' building saw something more: a high-floor player with a defined role and a clear path to contributing early. 

Black's ability to hold the point of attack and free up linebackers like Elandon Roberts or Patrick Queen could make him more valuable than his stat sheet suggests. In the fifth round, where upside and risk often outweigh certainty, landing a player with Black’s physical tools, proven production, and scheme fit represents excellent value. If he continues on the trajectory Pittsburgh expects, this could be the kind of pick we look back on as quietly foundational.

Steelers Found Hidden Value Late In The 2025 NFL Draft

Landing Yahya Black at pick 164 is a testament to the Steelers’ scouting patience. Khan’s surprise turned into a no‑brainer pick that fills a pressing need at nose tackle, brings immediate value, and further solidifies Pittsburgh’s commitment to its defensive identity. If Black pans out, this fifth‑round selection could become one of the pivotal pieces in rebuilding a stout front for years to come.

Do you think makes a big difference in Pittsburgh this upcoming season? Let us know in the comments!

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