NEWSLETTER
The echoes of clanging metal might have been replaced by the whir of draft boards, but the Pittsburgh Steelers’ focus on building a strong foundation remained unchanged in the 2024 NFL Draft. With a war room laser-focused on offensive line reinforcements, they went all-in on protecting Russell Wilson and reviving the team’s punishing rushing attack. Did they unearth the next generation of trench warriors that will pave the way for glory? Let’s dissect the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2024 draft class, give it a grade, and see how these rookies could solidify the Steel Curtain for years to come.
Pittsburgh Steelers NFL Draft Grade: A
The Pittsburgh Steelers opted for an “iron sharpens iron” approach in the 2024 NFL Draft, heavily investing in their offensive line. Their first two, and three of their first five picks were all offensive linemen: Troy Fautanu, a mauling guard from Washington in the first round, Zach Frazier, a versatile center from West Virginia in the second round, and Mason McCormick, a developmental guard from South Dakota State in the fourth round. This influx of young talent aims to solidify the Steelers’ offensive line and give Russell Wilson every chance possible to succeed.
While the focus was on the trenches, Pittsburgh made sure to address the rest of their top NFL Draft priorities as well. They grabbed Michigan wide receiver Roman Wilson in the third round, filling the void left by Dionate Johnson. Then, 14 picks later added linebacker Payton Wilson who plummeted due to injury concerns and could turn out to be this draft’s best overall value.
With their final three picks, the Steelers set their sights on more areas of need grabbing another interior offensive lineman Mason McCormick from South Dakota State. Followed by the selections of 3-technique defensive lineman Logan Lee from Iowa and cornerback Ryan Watts out of Texas. From a mere fit and value perspective, the Steelers may have had the best overall NFL Draft. They definitely deserve an A grade this time around.
More: Get all your fantasy football needs with 4for4
| Draft Pick | Selection |
|---|---|
| Rd 1 – pick 20 | Troy Fautanu, T – Washington |
| Rd 2 – pick 51 | Zach Frazier, C – West Virginia |
| Rd 3 – Pick 84 | Roman Wilson, WR – Michigan |
| Rd 3 – pick 98 | Payton Wilson, LB – NC State |
| Rd 4 – pick 119 | Mason McCormick, G – South Dakota State |
| Rd 6 – pick 178 | Logan Lee, DE – Iowa |
| Rd 6 – pick 195 | Ryan Watts, CB – Texas |
Rebuilding the Wall: The Steelers Prioritize the Offensive Line
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2024 NFL Draft strategy was about as subtle as a head-on sack by T.J. Watt. Their war room made a resounding statement by dedicating their first two picks to bolstering a unit that sputtered in 2023 – the offensive line. With the 20th overall pick, they selected hulking guard Troy Fautanu from Washington. Fautanu is a mauling run blocker with the potential to become a cornerstone on the Steelers’ offensive line for years to come.
Following that up, they grabbed versatile center Zach Frazier out of West Virginia in the second round. Frazier’s skills in pass protection and his mean streak are perfect traits in the Steel City. The commitment to the offensive line continued in the fourth round with the selection of guard Mason McCormick from South Dakota State. While McCormick might be a developmental prospect, his impressive college career suggests he could become a valuable piece in the Steelers’ offensive line puzzle.
Find great Pittsburgh Steelers gear at Fanatics!
Beyond the Trenches: Adding Weapons and Depth
While the focus was undeniably on the trenches, the Steelers didn’t completely neglect other areas. In the third round, they addressed a need at wide receiver by selecting Roman Wilson from Michigan. Wilson, known for his big-play ability and willingness to block in the run game, is a perfect fit alongside the big-play threat of George Pickens and adds another dimension to the Steelers’ offense. Later in the draft, they added defensive back Ryan Watts from Texas. Watts, a physical cornerback with good size, provides depth and potential competition in a Steelers secondary looking to improve on its 2023 performance.
Long-Term Vision: A Foundation for Success
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2024 draft class might not be flashy, but it demonstrates a clear long-term vision and tremendous potential. By prioritizing the offensive line and adding key pieces elsewhere, the Steelers have taken a significant step towards building a team that can compete in the immediate and prolonged future. The Steelers could be well on their way to re-establishing themselves as a force in the AFC North.
