{"id":42685,"date":"2025-04-21T02:45:14","date_gmt":"2025-04-21T02:45:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usatoday.azontree.com\/?p=42685"},"modified":"2025-04-21T02:45:14","modified_gmt":"2025-04-21T02:45:14","slug":"pittsburgh-steelers-2025-nfl-mock-draft","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/usatoday.azontree.com\/?p=42685","title":{"rendered":"Pittsburgh Steelers 2025 NFL Mock Draft.."},"content":{"rendered":"
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Steelers fans, this is your full final 2025 NFL Mock Draft!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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\"Jalon<\/figure>\n
The\u00a0Pittsburgh Steelers\u00a0haven\u2019t traditionally been known for headline-grabbing moves or high-risk decisions. However, 2025 has brought a noticeable shift. With a front office finally showing a more aggressive hand, the Steelers are no longer waiting for success\u2014they\u2019re going after it. The high-profile trade for DK Metcalf didn\u2019t just make waves\u2014it marked the beginning of a bold new era in Pittsburgh. Now comes the critical task:\u00a0constructing a roster\u00a0through the draft that can match that ambition and deliver sustained success.<\/p>\n

2025 Offseason Recap<\/h2>\n

There\u2019s no shortage of changes in Pittsburgh\u2019s offense this offseason. However, the moves signal a team trending in the right direction. The acquisition of DK Metcalf\u00a0instantly upgrades the passing attack. He pairs with George Pickens to form one of the most explosive\u00a0wideout duos in the league. Pickens, in particular, stands to benefit as defenses can no longer key in on him alone.<\/p>\n

\"DK<\/p>\n

The big question, of course, is who will be throwing them the ball. Sure, the quarterback picture remains unclear. However, all signs continue to suggest that Aaron Rodgers\u2019\u00a0drawn-out free agency could ultimately land him in the Steel City. That possibility looms large. Meanwhile, the Steelers retained Jaylen Warren with a tender offer. That’s a savvy move with Najee Harris now suiting up for the Chargers. Warren figures to be a key contributor no matter who\u2019s under center.<\/p>\n

Defensively, the Steelers remain strong. The hope is that the offensive upgrades can balance the scales. If the quarterback situation resolves as many anticipate, this team could mirror the success they enjoyed early last season. One thing\u2019s for certain: the Steelers are building with intent. The 2025\u00a0NFL Draft\u00a0is where their vision will start to take shape.<\/p>\n

Here we’ll try to look at the full, final, complete list of players whom the Pittsburgh Steelers will pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.<\/p>\n

Round 1, Pick 21: Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia<\/h2>\n

Few prospects in this class embody the Steelers\u2019 defensive DNA quite like Jalon Walker. The Georgia standout brings elite range, natural instincts, and high-end leadership. Walker is the type of defender who can do it all: blitz, drop into coverage, and serve as the quarterback of the defense. He has the makings of a Day 1 difference-maker. In an AFC North loaded with athletic quarterbacks and complex offenses, adding a multi-dimensional linebacker like Walker isn\u2019t just smart\u2014it\u2019s essential.<\/p>\n

Round 3, Pick 83: Jonah Savaiinaea, OL, Arizona<\/h2>\n

Yes, the Steelers’ offensive line showed signs of improvement last season. That said, it remains far from a finished product. That\u2019s where Jonah Savaiinaea comes in. The massive Arizona lineman brings a nasty streak needed to hold up in the physical AFC North trenches. Sure, he was primarily a right tackle in college. However, he projects as a guard early in his NFL career, offering valuable position flexibility. Savaiinaea gives Pittsburgh long-term depth and a potential starter who can protect whoever lines up under center.<\/p>\n

Round 4, Pick 123:\u00a0Will Howard, QB, Ohio State<\/h2>\n

This is where Pittsburgh takes a calculated gamble. Will Howard, who transferred to Ohio State and thrived under Ryan Day, saw his draft stock rise. That’s thanks to improved mechanics, a strong arm, and surprising mobility. Yes, he\u2019s still a work in progress. That said, Howard brings intriguing upside. He doesn\u2019t need to start right away, but in a room that includes many question marks, Howard represents a smart developmental option.<\/p>\n

Round 5, Pick 156: Billy Bowman Jr., S, Oklahoma<\/h2>\n

The Steelers’ defense has leaned heavily on Minkah Fitzpatrick in recent years. It\u2019s time to give him some support. Billy Bowman Jr. is a high-energy safety with the ability to contribute right away on special teams. His addition bolsters the team\u2019s depth and allows the defense to be more creative with its back-end personnel.<\/p>\n

\"Oklahoma
\u00a9 SARAH PHIPPS\/THE OKLAHOMAN \/ USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Round 6, Pick 185: Emery Jones Jr., OT, LSU<\/h2>\n

It\u2019s no secret the Steelers have had ongoing issues with offensive line depth. Emery Jones Jr. could be a late-round solution with starter potential. Sure, his tape was inconsistent at times. However, the raw tools are undeniably NFL-caliber. Pittsburgh can afford to be patient with him, grooming him as a swing tackle who might one day develop into a fixture in the starting five.<\/p>\n

Round 7, Pick 229: Kitan Crawford, S\/Returner, Nevada<\/h2>\n

Pittsburgh\u2019s late-round track record is dotted with hidden gems. Kitan Crawford might be the next. He is a converted cornerback with blazing 4.3 speed. As such, Crawford profiles as a dynamic return man and developmental defensive back. If Crawford can polish his technique and earn reps as a nickel or dime back, he could evolve into more than just a special teams ace.<\/p>\n

Intent and Risk<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The Steelers\u2019 2025 draft class isn\u2019t about flash\u2014it\u2019s about fit, balance, and long-term value. By addressing both sides of the ball with purpose, Pittsburgh strengthens its defensive identity while laying the groundwork for offensive stability. Jalon Walker injects playmaking and leadership into the heart of the defense, while Jonah Savaiinaea and Emery Jones Jr. fortify the trenches for the long haul. Will Howard gives the team a quarterback to develop behind the scenes, and the additions of Billy Bowman Jr. and Kitan Crawford add much-needed speed, energy, and special teams upside. If the DK Metcalf trade and potential Aaron Rodgers signing are the headline-grabbers, this draft is the foundation that could quietly elevate the Steelers back into true AFC contention. It\u2019s a class built not just for 2025\u2014but for the seasons that follow.<\/p>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Steelers fans, this is your full final 2025 NFL Mock Draft! The\u00a0Pittsburgh Steelers\u00a0haven\u2019t traditionally been known for headline-grabbing moves or high-risk decisions. 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