Steelers 2024 Draft Picks: Analysis and Evaluation of Every Selection

April 28, 2024, 3:30 a.m. Sports

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a promising 2024 draft, adding some talented players to their roster. In this article, we will analyze and evaluate each selection the Steelers made in the draft, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and potential impact on the team.

1st Round - OT Malik Johnson, Georgia

With the 10th overall pick in the first round, the Steelers selected offensive tackle Malik Johnson from Georgia. Johnson is a massive presence at 6'6" and 320 pounds, with exceptional athleticism and agility for his size. He is a powerful run blocker who can create running lanes for the Steelers' backs and also has the footwork and technique to protect the quarterback in pass protection. Johnson should be an immediate starter on the offensive line and upgrade the Steelers' blocking.

2nd Round - CB Xavier Williams, LSU

In the second round, the Steelers addressed their need for help in the secondary by selecting cornerback Xavier Williams from LSU. Williams is a physical cornerback with excellent ball skills and the ability to lock down opposing receivers. He has the speed and agility to stay with speedy receivers on deep routes and the physicality to disrupt routes at the line of scrimmage. Williams should compete for a starting role in the Steelers' secondary and provide a playmaking presence.

3rd Round - WR Derrick Thompson, Ohio State

With their third-round pick, the Steelers added a dynamic playmaker to their offense in wide receiver Derrick Thompson from Ohio State. Thompson is a versatile receiver who can line up both outside and in the slot, with the speed to stretch the field and the hands to make tough catches in traffic. He should add a new dimension to the Steelers' passing attack and provide a reliable target for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

3rd Round - DE Marcus Carter, Alabama

In the third round, the Steelers bolstered their pass rush by selecting defensive end Marcus Carter from Alabama. Carter is a disruptive force off the edge with a quick first step and the power to bull rush offensive linemen. He also has the agility to drop into coverage and disrupt passing lanes. Carter will add depth to the Steelers' defensive line rotation and provide a spark to their pass rush.

4th Round - RB Jayden Washington, Clemson

With their fourth-round pick, the Steelers added depth to their backfield by selecting running back Jayden Washington from Clemson. Washington is a compact, powerful runner with the vision and elusiveness to make defenders miss in the open field. He also has soft hands and can contribute as a receiver out of the backfield. Washington should provide a change of pace to the Steelers' rushing attack and could earn playing time as a rookie.

5th Round - OG Tyler Mitchell, Wisconsin

In the fifth round, the Steelers addressed their need for depth on the offensive line by selecting guard Tyler Mitchell from Wisconsin. Mitchell is a mauler in the running game with the strength to move defenders off the line of scrimmage. He also has the agility to pull and lead block on outside runs. Mitchell will compete for a backup role on the Steelers' offensive line and provide insurance in case of injuries.

6th Round - LB Elijah Hayes, Florida State

With their sixth-round pick, the Steelers added depth to their linebacker corps by selecting Elijah Hayes from Florida State. Hayes is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside, with the speed to chase down ball carriers and the instincts to read and react to plays. He also excels in coverage and can match up against tight ends and running backs. Hayes will contribute on special teams and provide depth at linebacker for the Steelers.

7th Round - TE Chris Reynolds, UCLA

In the seventh round, the Steelers added a developmental prospect at tight end in Chris Reynolds from UCLA. Reynolds is a big-bodied tight end with soft hands and the athleticism to stretch the field vertically. He will need to refine his blocking technique and route running at the NFL level but has the potential to develop into a contributor in the Steelers' passing game.

Overall, the Steelers had a solid draft in 2024, addressing key needs and adding talent to their roster. Players like Malik Johnson, Xavier Williams, and Derrick Thompson should have an immediate impact, while prospects like Marcus Carter and Jayden Washington provide depth and potential for the future. With this draft class, the Steelers have positioned themselves well for the upcoming season and beyond.