Exploring The Steelers' 2024 Draft Picks: A Comprehensive Overview

As the NFL offseason for the Pittsburgh Steelers unfolds, the anticipation surrounding the 2024 NFL Draft picks begins to intensify, especially for Steeler Nation. The storied franchise, known for its rich history and competitive spirit, stands at the threshold of a new chapter, poised to welcome fresh talent through the draft. 

Below, we'll look at the Steelers' selections for the 2024 NFL Draft, analyzing the potential impact these young players could have on the team's dynamics. Every pick is a glimpse into the franchise's future strategy, blending hope, expectation, and the thrill of the unknown. 

Round 1: Troy Fautanu, Offensive Tackle

Troy Fautanu, an offensive tackle, has been making waves in collegiate football. He showcases exceptional skills and a promising future in the sport. His remarkable agility and strength have set him apart as a pivotal player for his team. 

His potential for growth in the sport has also made him a popular topic of discussion on various sports platforms.

Here, enthusiasts and bettors analyze his performances, predicting the significant impact he could have on future games. Fautanu's dedication to his craft and physical attributes make him a player to watch. He embodies the spirit and energy of a rising star in football's dynamic world.

Round 2: Zach Frazier, Center

On the second day of drafting activities, Zach Frazier was the 51st overall selection. Over the past two years, Frazier initiated 24 games for the West Virginia Mountaineers and concluded his collegiate career on a significant note, earning a spot as a Third Team All-American by the Associated Press in 2023. 

At 22 years old, his participation in the NFL Combine and the Senior Bowl was notable, with a record of playing 47 games throughout his tenure in Morgantown, including starting 46 of those games. 

Frazier predominantly played as a center, starting 37 games in this position, where NFL analysts predict he will fit best. 

Round 3: Roman Wilson, Wide Receiver

Following the departure of Diontae Johnson, the Steelers were tasked with refilling their receiver room, achieving this goal through the acquisition of Wilson. They anticipate that Wilson will continue their tradition of successfully picking strong receivers on the second day of the NFL Draft. 

Wilson brings a blend of quickness and deep-play capability, but what stands out most might be his commitment to blocking, demonstrated in Michigan's run-focused approach. This trait will serve him well in Arthur Smith's run-oriented offence.

Wilson attended St. Louis High School in Hawaii alongside siblings Nick and Nate Herbig. Just a year prior, the Steelers had drafted inside linebacker Nick and acquired offensive lineman Nate through free agency. Wilson shared that he was in the same class as Nick, the younger Herbig brother, and they were close friends who played on the same teams growing up.

Round 3 (second selection): Payton Wilson, Linebacker 

Concerns about injuries have consistently shadowed Payton Wilson's career, yet his performance on the field remains outstanding. He possesses a remarkable ability to locate and intercept the ball, excels in defensive coverage, and has the agility to dominate the field from one end to the other. Wilson is poised to make an immediate and significant impact in the NFL.

Wilson secured the Chuck Bednarik Award for Outstanding Defensive Player and the Butkus Award, distinguishing him as the country's premier linebacker. 

Additionally, he earned First Team All-American honors and was named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year. In nine out of his last 12 games, he achieved double-digit tackles. Wilson is poised to dominate as a prolific tackler in his future endeavors if he maintains his health.

Round 4: Mason McCormick, Offensive Guard 

Offensive line coach Pat Meyer eloquently captured the sentiment, likening the occasion to an early Christmas celebration. While McCormick may not be stepping into a starting role immediately, his adaptability and experience make him a significant addition, primarily at left guard for South Dakota State University. 

Alongside first-round pick Broderick Jones in 2023 and future talents Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier, selected in 2024, McCormick is set to play a critical role in the youthful core that will propel Steelers football into a new era.

Round 6: Logan Lee, Defensive Line

In this year's draft, Logan Lee emerged as the Steelers' premier defensive line selection. His collegiate career was marked by flexibility, but within the Steelers' framework, he is anticipated to excel as a defensive end, supplementing the squad's options alongside Cameron Heyward and Larry Ogunjobi. 

His formal visit to the Steelers before the draft underscores the critical role such visits play in drafting. Five out of the six Steelers’ draft picks for 2024 made official trips to Pittsburgh.

Round 6 (second selection): Ryan Watts, Defensive Back

During the recent NFL Draft, the Steelers selected cornerback Ryan Watts in a sixth-round pick as the 195th overall player chosen. This marked the first time since 2019 that a cornerback from Texas was drafted. Initially beginning his collegiate football career at Ohio State, Watts transferred to Texas before the 2022 season, starting in 23 games while there. 

In a statement from Texas, Coach Steve Sarkisian praised Watts for his exceptional play along the boundary, noting his ability to effectively face off against top receivers one-on-one. 

Conclusion

The Steelers' 2024 draft picks reflect a strategic approach to building a team capable of competing at the highest level. By securing a potential quarterback of the future, reinforcing their defense, and adding depth to the offensive line, Pittsburgh has laid a solid foundation for success. Only time will tell how these selections pan out, but the future looks bright for the Steelers as they integrate these young talents into their roster.