The Pittsburgh Steelers are at a crucial crossroads heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, where their first-round pick—number 21 overall—could make or break the future of the franchise. With high expectations for the upcoming season, the pressure is on Omar Khan and the front office to land the right player. One bad pick, and the momentum for the Steelers’ rebuild could stall dramatically.

Let’s face it, the Pittsburgh Steelers have a massive opportunity, and they need to hit a home run. With a foundation already in place, Khan and his team can elevate this franchise to new heights. But it all begins with this critical pick. Get it right, and they’re well on their way to competing for a Lombardi Trophy in 2025. Get it wrong, and the Steelers will be left scrambling for answers.

In today’s edition of Steelers Talk, host Jack Sperry breaks down 11 potential first-round prospects who are under serious consideration by the Steelers. And trust me, these names are stirring up some serious buzz among fans and analysts alike.

The Ideal Pick: Ashton Jenty – A Game-Changer at Running Back

If the Steelers get their wish, the top target for the 21st overall pick would be running back Ashton Jenty from Boise State. Jenty’s combination of power, speed, and vision makes him the ideal candidate to revive Pittsburgh’s run game—a key element that failed miserably in 2024, ranking in the bottom 10 in the NFL.

The Steelers’ success next season hinges on fixing their running game, and Jenty has all the tools to make an immediate impact. With incredible contact balance and home-run hitting speed, Jenty could be this year’s Ezekiel Elliott. However, there’s a big caveat: Jenty is widely regarded as a top-tier prospect, which means he likely won’t last until pick 21. So, if the Steelers are serious about landing this game-changer, they’ll have to act fast or risk watching him get scooped up by another team in the top 10.

Wide Receiver or Bust? The Steelers Could Be Looking to Build for the Future

Should Jenty be off the board when Pittsburgh is on the clock, wide receiver is the next position to address. The future of George Pickens is uncertain—there’s talk of him being traded or possibly replaced in free agency. With that in mind, drafting a dynamic playmaker at receiver becomes an attractive option.

Several receivers could still be available at 21 that would instantly make an impact in the Steelers’ offense. Here are a few names that should be on Omar Khan’s radar:

• Luther Burton III (Missouri): A shifty, explosive playmaker with elite route-running skills. Burton’s ability to break free from man coverage makes him a potential weapon for Pittsburgh’s offense.
• Matthew Golden (Houston): Another route technician, Golden excels at gaining yards after the catch. His ability to get open in tight spaces would complement the Steelers’ offensive philosophy.
• Emeka Egbuka (Ohio State): A solid all-around receiver with great run-blocking skills, Egbuka could add the physical presence the Steelers need in their receiving corps.
• Jaden Higgins (Iowa State): Standing at 6’4″, Higgins brings size and elite route-running to the table. Though his run-blocking needs work, his ability to win contested catches and make plays downfield would be an asset in the red zone.
• Jack Bash (TCU): After a standout Senior Bowl week, Bash is climbing the draft boards. His run-blocking prowess and reliable hands make him a solid choice, even though he’s not considered a true No. 1 option at receiver.

Defense: Does Pittsburgh Need to Bolster the D-Line or Secondary?

While most fans want the Steelers to prioritize offense, there are still key defensive players that could transform Pittsburgh’s defense, especially in the trenches.

• Kenneth Grant (Michigan): A 340-pound monster at defensive tackle, Grant is the prototypical run-stuffer that Pittsburgh needs. His physicality and athleticism make him a perfect fit to help solidify the interior of the Steelers’ defense.
• Joty Baron (Texas): A versatile cornerback with elite coverage skills, Baron would immediately upgrade Pittsburgh’s secondary, particularly in nickel formations.
• Benjamin Morrison (Notre Dame): A technically proficient corner who can lock down receivers in man coverage, Morrison could provide immediate relief as a starting corner opposite Joey Porter Jr.
• Trey Os (Ole Miss): Known for his physical play and strong coverage skills, Os fits the mold of what Pittsburgh looks for in a cornerback.

The Dilemma: Offense or Defense?

As fans eagerly debate whether the Steelers should go all-in on offense or bolster the defense with their first-round pick, one thing is clear: this decision will shape the franchise’s future for years to come. While the Steelers’ defense remains one of the NFL’s most respected, the offense—especially the running game and receiving corps—needs immediate help to remain competitive.

It’s a classic case of best player available versus team need. Do the Steelers take a gamble on a top-tier receiver or running back to fuel the offense, or do they address their defensive line or secondary for long-term success?

In the end, the Steelers’ front office must make this decision with one question in mind: who gives them the best chance of winning a Super Bowl in 2025?

Final Thoughts

The 2025 NFL Draft is a make-or-break moment for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Will Omar Khan’s first-round pick lead the team back to glory, or will it set them back in their pursuit of a championship? The ball is in Khan’s court, and there’s no room for error.

As fans, it’s up to us to keep the conversation alive. Which player do you think should be Pittsburgh’s No. 1 target? Should they prioritize offense or defense? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s get this debate going.

Steelers Nation, it’s time to make your voice heard.