The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a challenging position this offseason, as they were not able to secure a top pick in the NFL Draft but also did not perform well enough to contend in 2024. After another early playoff exit, the team holds the No. 21 pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. In free agency, the team made a bold move by trading for star wide receiver D.K. Metcalf and also brought in solid players like Darius Slay, Juan Thornhill, and Malik Harrison.
With the team’s first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, there are several directions the Steelers could go in. However, there are certain players that they should avoid selecting in the first round. Luther Burden III, a wide receiver from Missouri, may be an intriguing option after an impressive career, but the Steelers should steer clear due to his less productive 2024 season and off-field concerns. Additionally, with the volatile George Pickens already on the team, adding Burden could bring unnecessary drama.
Quarterback Jaxson Dart from Ole Miss is another player that the Steelers should avoid selecting in the first round. Despite his impressive career at Ole Miss and leadership skills, some evaluators have concerns about his transition to an NFL offense, making it safer for the team to sign a veteran like Aaron Rodgers and draft a developmental quarterback later in the draft. Similarly, Jalen Milroe from Alabama is another quarterback in the second tier who may be tempting, but his readiness to be a productive NFL quarterback is uncertain, suggesting that the team should prioritize other positions at No. 21.
Omarion Hampton, a running back from North Carolina, is another player that the Steelers should avoid selecting in the first round. While Hampton dominated in college and has the potential to be a bell cow in the NFL, the Steelers have more pressing needs and the running back position is deep in this draft class. With the departure of Najee Harris in free agency, the team has Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell as top options at the position, making it more sensible to address running back later in the draft and focus on other positions with the No. 21 pick.
Overall, the Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a challenging offseason as they aim to improve their roster and address key needs in the 2025 NFL Draft. With the No. 21 pick, the team must be strategic in their selections and avoid certain players who may not be the best fit for their current situation. By focusing on areas of need and making wise choices in the draft and free agency, the Steelers can position themselves for success in the upcoming season and strive to return to contention in the competitive AFC North.
