Joe Kuzma’s 2024 7-Round “One Last” Steelers Mock Draft
It’s finally draft day! The Pittsburgh Steelers, with specific needs and a “win-now” mentality, still have several team needs to address as they head into this evening’s festivities.
I have already attempted to address these needs with my previous mock drafts: a 4-Round Steelers Mock Draft and a 3-Round “Something Different” Steelers Mock Draft. We also covered several scenarios on recent podcasts including making multiple mock drafts and predicting the Steelers picks plus our annual tradition of Pittsburgh Steelers Mock Draft Insanity.
However, something didn’t sit right with me and I wanted to get another set of predictions in under the wire. So here’s my “one last” Steelers mock draft for the 2024 NFL Draft which dissects potential picks and explores the ramifications of each selection (without considering trades beyond the first round.) This approach focuses on how the Steelers could maximize each draft pick to fortify their roster effectively.
First Round (20): Graham Barton – Center (Duke)
Steelers Solidify the Offensive Line
Graham Barton has emerged as a likely pick for the Steelers at number 20. His ascent on draft boards is well-deserved due to his athletic prowess and versatility in a zone-heavy offensive scheme.
Barton’s ability to play both guard and tackle positions makes him an ideal candidate for Pittsburgh, which urgently needs a capable and flexible offensive lineman who can contribute immediately. While he doesn’t project to play tackle at the pro level, his experience as a center during his first year in college could see him make the shift to the position the Steelers need the most.
As noted in my other mock drafts, Pittsburgh can’t hesitate if they want a top center. It’s either their first round pick or they’ll have to wait until rounds three and four. I’ll snag Barton here for a shot at a generational player who will solidify the center spot for a decade or longer.
Also considered: Jackson Powers-Johnson (C – Oregon)
Second Round (51): Braden Fiske – DT (Florida State)
Strengthening the Defensive Front
The Steelers’ focus on enhancing their trench capabilities continues with the selection of Braden Fiske, a defensive tackle from Florida State. Fiske’s attributes, including his play speed and ability to disrupt the ball from multiple positions on the defensive line, align with Pittsburgh’s strategy to build a formidable defensive front with versatility.
Fiske has jumped up draft boards and I’d be fortunate enough to land him here at 51. I decided on a defensive lineman of the future over popular choices like wide receivers and cornerbacks, as I believe the team needs to start stockpiling for a future without Cameron Heyward (35-years-old in May) and Larry Ogunjobi (30 in June, 32 when his contract ends after 2025, or as a cap casualty next season.)
Isaiahh Loudermilk enters the final year of his rookie deal and is replaceable, while DeMarvin Leal‘s regression last season is concerning. Fiske can jump right in and contribute in Week 1, winning a spot on the roster over both of them and rotating with last year’s pick Keeanu Benton.
I also like LSU’s Maason Smith and Ohio State’s Michael Hall Jr. as future fits, but it’s impossible to tell where they, and Fiske, wind up on everyone’s boards. Plus, I don’t see Smith and Hall jumping into action as quickly. In the event Fiske isn’t here, I’m prepared to go another direction, possibly addressing wide receiver or cornerback. Maybe even offensive tackle, seeing how the board falls.
Also considered: Malachi Corley (WR – Kentucky), Max Melton (CB – Rutgers)
Third Round (84): Andru Phillips – CB (Kentucky)
Addressing Secondary Needs
I’ve had some combination of Rutgers’ Melton or Kentucky’s Phillips on my draft boards, but I’m uncertain that Melton could last until round three. Both are versatile chess pieces that would help the Steelers adequately replace the production of Cameron Sutton who was lost in free agency last year.
Each of these corners can shift around and play on the boundary or in the slot, where starting a rookie may not be as intimidating for Mike Tomlin to test out in Week 1.
Also, the team trade for Donte Jackson from Carolina, so not as if they’re without a starting cornerback opposite of Joey Porter Jr. This will allow them some patience in finding another receiver to add to the mix later on. However, if they’re feeling froggy with this pick, they could go with Jalen McMillan from Washington, who was lost in a three-way receiver shuffle with potential top-ten choice Rome Odunze. McMillan is a good fit and may have been discussed in the team’s meetings and visits with Washington QB Michael Penix Jr.
Also considered: Jalen McMillan (WR – Washington), Blake Fisher (OT – Notre Dame)
Third Round (98): Matt Goncalves – Offensive Tackle (Pittsburgh)
Local Talent with Versatile Potential
Steelers Nation finally comes to the conclusion that there may be another season with Dan Moore Jr. as the team’s starting left tackle. I think the Steelers view Moore as a starter and won’t be in a rush to replace him. Instead, they address center and the future at defensive line first, add to their secondary depth with a subpackage player, and now add a swing tackle with future starting potential to the roster.
Despite a season cut short by injury, Goncalves’ performance at the Panthers’ pro day demonstrated his recovery and capability, potentially making him a steal in the draft. His familiarity with the area and versatility on the line are key assets that Pittsburgh would be eager to utilize.
In the event they try and snag Notre Dame tackle Blake Fisher ahead of this pick, I could see another defensive addition here with LSU’s Maason Smith. The defense will then roll with last year’s rookie Corey Trice and Darius Rush as the depth options, and potentially sign a free agent to play in the slot.
Also considered: Maason Smith (DT – LSU)
Fourth Round (119): Luke McCaffrey – Wide Receiver (Rice)
Adding Depth to the Receiving Corps
I’ve mentioned McCaffrey before in almost every mock draft I’ve done and the reasons are simple: Mike Tomlin loves his bloodlines.
McCaffrey doesn’t jump off of the page like his father Ed or brother Christian, but he could be a solid pick who turns into a possession receiver. The Steelers will also need a punt returner, as newly signed return man Cordarrelle Patterson is a kick return specialist but that’s all. Luke could hop right into a special teams role where Calvin Austin has struggled.
I also considered another small, shifty receiver from USC, Tahj Washington, who also visited with the Steelers. Washington could still be around in round six too, according to some boards. He’s a physical and willing blocker who lines up everywhere: and could also contribute to special teams, as he was a multi-sport athlete (including track and field).
Also considered: Tahj Washington (WR – USC)
Sixth Round (178): Khristian Boyd – Defensive Tackle (Northern Iowa)
Also preparing for life after Cam Heyward
Boyd is an FCS product with tremendous talents and upside. Because he was buried with “lesser” competition, he should be available on day three.
The Steelers will need additional bodies for special teams and could also prepare the future of the defensive line with this pick. As noted, Heyward and Ogunjobi could both be gone in 2025 (retirement/contract) and Isaiahh Loudermilk will be a free agent. That would leave the team with only Benton and Leal as the depth, and of course, Fiske, if he’s selected.
Boyd would be in place to contribute and would be a second-year pro with a redshirt season behind him. At 6′ 4″ and 317 lbs., he will replace Armon Watts‘ previous backup role. (Watts signed with the New England Patriots in free agency this offseason.)
Sixth Round (196): Steele Chambers – Linebacker (Ohio State)
Padding linebacker depth
Two Ohio State linebackers should be available as the sixth round rolls on. I like Chambers over his teammate Tommy Eichenberg, due to the latter’s lack of sideline-to-sideline burst.
The knock on Chambers will be his size (6′ 1″ 232 lbs.) which is eerily reminiscent of another former Buckeye, Ryan Shazier: who also had the same labels placed on him about size and transitioning to inside linebacker in the NFL.
A three-year starter who is a tackling machine, Chambers hasn’t generated a lot of turnovers during his collegiate career but has shown he’s capable, with a number of knockdowns in pass coverage and three career interceptions. He would take a backseat to newly signed Patrick Queen and last year’s free agent signings Cole Holcomb and Elandon Roberts.
However, in planning for the future, the Steelers went several spots deep into their rotation at the position due to injuries last season and do not appear ready to pull the trigger on Mark Robinson, who has been slow to develop into a larger contributing role.
Chambers could also earn an extra spot on the roster by contributing on special teams, which is aforementioned tackling prowess would be perfect for.
Engaging Fans with Predictive Betting
To assist fans who are new to this aspect of sports engagement, Pennsylvania betting platforms often provide insights, historical data, and expert analyses. These resources can help fans make more informed decisions when placing their bets. For instance, looking at the Steelers’ past draft trends or the team’s urgent needs might give clues about their possible choices, thereby increasing the chances of successful bets.
As draft day approaches, fans can engage more deeply through predictive betting. Utilizing Pennsylvania Sports Betting platforms allows fans to speculate on draft picks and potential trades, adding an extra layer of excitement to draft day festivities and discussions. Additionally, the availability of no deposit bonus offers can provide fans with an interesting way to explore the betting experience.
It’s important for fans to remember to engage in betting responsibly. Pennsylvania sports betting platforms are regulated and offer tools to help bettors manage their spending and stay within safe limits. Features such as deposit limits, time limits, and self-exclusion are available to promote healthy gambling habits.
Analyzing Trade Scenarios: Potential Moves and Their Impact
While this mock draft does not incorporate trades beyond the first round, the possibility of Pittsburgh trading up or down remains high. Such moves could significantly alter the draft strategy, emphasizing the fluid nature of draft day decisions and their potential to reshape a team’s roster.
Conclusion: Preparing for Draft Day: Steelers’ Strategy and Fan Expectations
As the Steelers prepare for the draft, the strategies outlined here reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing key team needs while also preparing for the unexpected. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see how well Pittsburgh navigates the complexities of the draft to set the team on a path to success.
This mock draft provides a detailed exploration of potential picks and strategies for the Steelers, offering insights into how they might use the draft to enhance their roster effectively. By focusing on immediate contributions and long-term potential, Pittsburgh can ensure that this year’s selections support their overarching goals for the coming NFL seasons.
