The 2025 NFL Draft brought anticipation and plenty of debate for Pittsburgh Steelers fans. With critical roster gaps to fill, the focus on Steelers draft picks intensified as the first round unfolded. Let’s dive into the biggest storylines, selections, and what these choices mean for the team’s immediate and long-term future.

Steelers Target Defense With First-Round Pick

Entering the first round, speculation swirled around the Steelers potentially selecting a quarterback, with top prospects like Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart still on the board. Instead, the Steelers front office, led by General Manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin, made a bold move. They chose Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon with the No. 21 pick. According to ESPN’s coverage, the team received several offers to trade the pick, but remained determined to add a disruptive force to their defensive line. Khan stated, "We got the player that we wanted," and Tomlin described Harmon as having "Steeler DNA." Read more about the decision here.

Harmon brings much-needed youth and energy to the aging defensive front, mentored by veteran Cameron Heyward. Harmon’s performance at Oregon, including leading the FBS in quarterback pressures as a defensive tackle, makes him a valuable addition.

Quarterback Questions and Shedeur Sanders Slide

The Steelers’ decision to skip on a quarterback, especially with notable talent available, caught the attention of draft analysts. Shedeur Sanders, who had been linked with the Steelers in several pre-draft mocks, was notably passed over. ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. vocally questioned the move, highlighting Sanders’ attributes and drawing parallels to other talented quarterbacks who slid on draft day. USA Today recaps Kiper’s take and Sanders’ surprising slide.

In fact, Sanders did not hear his name called in the entire first round. This outcome shocked many fans and experts, especially considering the history of quarterbacks being picked early. CBS Sports analyzes why Sanders slipped out of Round 1, exploring both on-field and off-field factors.

How the Picks Shape the Steelers’ Future

By focusing their top pick on defense, the Steelers sent a clear message about their roster-building priorities. With only two quarterbacks under contract, some wondered if Pittsburgh’s draft strategy signals confidence in a future trade or free-agent addition for the signal-caller role. Coach Tomlin noted that draft outcomes often affect subsequent talent acquisitions, hinting that the quarterback situation remains fluid.

Derrick Harmon’s addition gives the Steelers a dynamic presence to reshape their defensive scheme. Learning under Heyward promises rapid development, potentially locking up the middle of the defense for years.

Key Takeaways for Steelers Fans

• The Steelers draft picks in 2025 reflect a focus on retooling the defensive line, aiming for immediate impact.
• Choosing not to draft a quarterback, particularly with Shedeur Sanders available, will be debated all season.
• The organization’s faith in veteran leadership and upcoming free agency may change the quarterback depth chart soon.

Steelers fans have plenty to discuss as rookie minicamp and training camp approach. The result of these draft decisions will unfold in the coming months, but the commitment to toughness and strategic planning is clear. Stay with trusted sources and official Steelers draft coverage for ongoing updates.