The Pittsburgh Steelers have identified center and wide receiver as their top two needs for the upcoming 2024 NFL draft after releasing Mason Cole and trading Diontae Johnson. Additionally, upgrading one starting spot at offensive tackle is also a consideration for the team. Head coach Mike Tomlin hinted that the team may be leaning towards selecting a center in the first round, as he mentioned that there are only a few plug-and-play options available in the upcoming draft.
Tomlin emphasized the need for improvement at center and receiver, noting that there are still options available in free agency but expressing confidence that there are many wide receivers in the draft who can make an immediate impact. He also mentioned that after a couple of centers in the draft, it may be harder to find players who can contribute immediately. This implies that the Steelers may be looking to target a center early in the draft to address their needs.
If the Steelers do decide to target a center early in the draft, there are four players they should be closely considering. Washington’s Troy Fautanu, Duke’s Graham Barton, Oregon’s Jackson Powers-Johnson, and West Virginia’s Zach Frazier have been identified as potential options who could come in and start in Week One for the Steelers. There is a real chance that one of these players could be the team’s first-round pick as they look to shore up their offensive line.
The focus on addressing the center position early in the draft indicates the importance of solidifying the offensive line to protect the quarterback and create opportunities for the running game. By targeting a center in the first round, the Steelers are aiming to secure a player who can step in and make an immediate impact. Tomlin’s comments suggest that the team is prioritizing finding a plug-and-play option at center, highlighting the importance of this position for the team’s success in the upcoming season.
As the Steelers continue to assess their needs and evaluate potential draft prospects, they will be looking for players who can contribute right away and help improve the team’s performance. By targeting key positions such as center and wide receiver, the Steelers are addressing areas of weakness and working towards building a stronger roster for the 2024 season. With the draft approaching, the team’s focus on addressing these needs early on indicates their commitment to making necessary improvements for the upcoming season.
