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Steelers Mock Draft Buzz: Offensive Line in Focus as Pick 21 Looms

The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a critical decision at pick 21 of the upcoming draft, with analysts from ESPN, CBS Sports, and NFL.com unanimous in their prediction: the team is targeting an offensive tackle to bolster a struggling line. The most frequent name linked to this move? Kadyn Proctor, the 6-foot-7 Alabama guard who could step in for the injured Broderick Jones. But don’t count out Monroe Freeling, a Georgia tackle who’s also drawing strong consideration.

A Clear Priority: Tackle or Bust?

Mock drafts are painting a clear picture—the Steelers’ first-round selection will almost certainly be an offensive tackle. Proctor’s physical profile and versatility make him a prime candidate to shore up the left tackle spot, while Freeling brings elite pass-blocking potential. The urgency stems from Jones’ underwhelming rookie season, with some analysts—like those at NFL.com—arguing that a new bookend is essential to protect Kenny Pickett’s blindside and stabilize the offense.

Second & Third Round: Filling Gaps Beyond the Trenches

While the first round is laser-focused on the offensive line, later picks are shaping up to address positional depth across the roster. Here’s how the mock drafts are shaping up:

• Second Round:
• Wide Receiver (Tennessee) – A speedy playmaker to complement DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr.
• Cornerback (Indiana) – A potential nickelback to bolster a secondary in need of playmaking.

• Third Round:
• Quarterback (LSU) – A developmental arm to sit behind Pickett and add competition.
• Defensive Tackle (Texas A&M) – Interior pressure to disrupt opposing backfields.
• Wide Receiver (Georgia) – Another pass-catcher to add firepower to the aerial attack.

The Outlier: A Bold Twist from NFL.com

Not all analysts are on the same page. NFL.com’s latest mock dares to buck the trend, suggesting the Steelers skip the tackle in favor of Omar Cooper Jr., an Indiana wide receiver. The reasoning? Pairing Cooper with the duo of Metcalf and Pittman Jr. could create a dynamic passing trio, while Proctor’s need could be addressed in Round 2 or 3. It’s a high-risk, high-reward gamble that would shift the team’s draft strategy entirely.

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ESPN’s Miller: Proctor for the Long Haul

Joining the chorus, ESPN’s Matt Miller doubles down on Proctor, arguing that Broderick Jones has failed to meet first-round expectations and needs a replacement. His mock draft also includes a third-round guard from Iowa to fortify the interior line, ensuring the Steelers don’t just patch one hole—they reinforce the entire unit.

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The Bottom Line: A Tackle at 21, Then All Bets Are Off

The mock draft landscape is crystalizing around a single narrative: the Steelers are drafting an offensive tackle at 21. Whether it’s Proctor’s power, Freeling’s technique, or Cooper’s unexpected rise, the decision will shape Pittsburgh’s offensive future. Beyond that? The Steelers are keeping their options open—receivers, defensive linemen, and even quarterbacks could be in play as they hunt for a complete roster.

One thing’s for sure: by Day 2 of the draft, the Steelers’ offensive line could look very different.