If things continue as they are, the Pittsburgh Steelers are on pace to have their highest first-round draft pick in more than 50 years. This is rare territory but would be ideal as the team works to rebuild its roster. Here are the top eight prospects for the 2023 NFL draft the Steelers should be interested in.
1-EDGE Will Anderson Jr., Alabama
The cream of the crop in this defensive draft class, Anderson is a terror off the edge and would be the perfect pairing with T.J. Watt.
2-DT Jalen Carter, Georgia
Top interior defensive lineman in the draft. Huge and strong with a quick first step, Carter can do it all.
3-LB Noah Sewell, Oregon
Do-it-all inside linebacker who plays very similar to former Steeler Ryan Shazier with his speed and instincts.
4-CB Kelee Ringo, Georgia
Ringo is the top coverage cornerback in the draft and a Day One starter.
5-OT Paris Johnson Jr., Ohio State
Johnson is the top offensive tackle in a class that hasn’t asserted itself. Still, a rock-solid blocker whose best fit could be on the right side.
6-LB Trenton Simpson, Clemson
Incredibly active and athletic, Clemson’s Trenton Simpson reminds me of current Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons. Can play inside and outside.
7-EDGE Myles Murphy, Clemson
More of a traditional 4-3 defensive end, Murphy would be something of a tweener in the Steelers scheme.
8-OT Broderick Jones, Georgia
Another mauling run blocker with quick feet and solid pass-blocking technique.
