The Pittsburgh Steelers were hard at work at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine and they got a close look at some of the best prospects in the 2024 NFL draft. Several guys really impressed at the combine and the Steelers draft needs got much clearer based on the formal interviews.
We decided for this mock draft to go a full seven rounds and put in a trade that landed the Steelers Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields. In this scenario, the Steelers got Fields in exchange for the Steelers second-round pick in 2024 and a third-round pick in 2025.
First round - C Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon
I have a feeling by the time the draft finally gets here, Jackson Powers-Johnson doesn’t last until 20 and the Steelers have to go another direction. But he was on the board and is just simply too good to pass up.
Second round - Justin Fields
With this pick, the Steelers were able to secure Fields and hope he can be the team’s franchise quarterback for a long time. Meanwhile, in this trade scenario, the Bears used this pick in the simulated choice to select Alabama wide receiver Jermaine Burton.
Third round - CB Mike Sainristil, Michigan
Michigan CB Mike Sainristil says he studied former Steelers nickel cornerback Mike Hilton and it shows. If the Steelers could land the next Hilton, this pick is a huge win.
Fourth round - WR Bub Means, Pitt
I honestly expected Means to run a better 40 times but overall his athleticism was elite and he would be a great fit as the Steelers No. 3 or 4 receiver depending on what happens with Allen Robinson and Calvin Austin III.
Fourth round - DT McKinnley Jackson, Texas A&M
The Steelers could lose two defensive linemen to free agency and Mckinnley Jackson fits the bill as the huge interior defensive lineman who would thrive next to Keeanu Benton.
Sixth round - LB Curtis Jacobs, Penn State
The book on Jacobs is as an experienced, productive inside linebacker but he showed better athleticism at the combine than we saw on tape. Solid developmental player.
Seventh round - P Tory Taylor, Iowa
The Steelers cut Pressley Harvin III and if they don’t sign a free agent to replace him, Tory Taylor is the ideal rookie replacement.
