Reduce: Steelers’ 2024 Mock Draft 1.0 shows Pittsburgh selecting an intriguing quarterback prospect to compete with Kenny Pickett for the position.

The Pittsburgh Steelers face significant tasks leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft in late April, with General Manager Omar Khan and his right-hand man, Andy Weidl, focusing on strengthening the roster. Key concerns include quarterback uncertainty, an unstable secondary, and various other issues shaping the draft strategy.

The initial version of the mock drafts prioritizes the team’s needs on both offense and defense, beginning with the selection of a complementary player for the standout rookie of 2023, Joey Porter Jr.

1.) Round One, 20th Overall – Choosing Kool-Aid McKinstry, Cornerback from the University of Alabama:

The selection of McKinstry, a cornerback from the University of Alabama, addresses Pittsburgh’s historical struggles in drafting cornerbacks. With McKinstry’s potential to become a lockdown corner and the positive track record of players from Nick Saban’s program, the Steelers aim to solidify their secondary for years to come.

2.) Round Two, 52nd Overall – Opting for Jackson Powers-Johnson, Center from the University of Oregon:

Addressing concerns about the center position, the Steelers choose Powers-Johnson in the second round to replace Mason Cole. With experience playing both guard and center, Powers-Johnson brings athleticism, intelligence, and the accolade of winning the Rimington Award for the country’s best center.

3.) Round Three, 84th Overall – Selecting Ruke Orhorhoro, Defensive Lineman from Clemson University:

With an eye on the defensive line, the Steelers add Orhorhoro from Clemson University, known for producing standout defensive linemen. His strength and disruptive play could create a formidable partnership with Keeanu Benton, contributing to the team’s long-term defensive strategy.

4.) Round Four, 119th Overall – Adding Jaden Hicks, Safety from Washington State University:

To strengthen the secondary, the Steelers secure Hicks in the fourth round, aiming for a long-term solution at the safety position. Pairing Hicks with Minkah Fitzpatrick could set the stage for the defense’s future, given Hicks’ three interceptions in two seasons as a starter.

5.) Round Four, 120th Overall – Drafting Spencer Rattler, Quarterback from the University of South Carolina:

With an additional fourth-round selection, acquired through a trade, the Steelers take a chance on Rattler, a talented quarterback who slipped to the fourth round. Despite his turnover-prone play, Rattler provides competition for Kenny Pickett, especially if Mason Rudolph doesn’t return in 2024 and Mitchell Trubisky is released.

6.) Round Six, 198th Overall – Choosing Isaiah Williams, Wide Receiver from the University of Illinois:

Recognizing the potential departure of Allen Robinson II, the Steelers add Williams in the sixth round, aiming to bolster the wide receiver position. Williams’ productive collegiate season suggests he could be a valuable asset, even as a late-round pick.

7.) Round Seven, 241st Overall – Selecting Nathaniel Watson, Linebacker from Mississippi State University:

In the seventh round, the Steelers secure Watson, a linebacker from Mississippi State University. With impressive stats in 2023, Watson’s availability in the seventh round makes him a potential steal and a valuable addition to the linebackers room.

While the mock draft doesn’t address the need for a right tackle, the team’s activities in the 2024 free agency will provide insights into their draft intentions. Steelers fans are invited to share their preferences for the 2024 NFL Draft in the comments section.