Pittsburgh Steelers executed a near-perfect strategy during the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, turning heads with a savvy and well-calculated move. With the 21st overall pick, they selected Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon—a decision that many view as one of the smartest of the night.
The drama unfolded after a surprise pick by the New Orleans Saints, who passed on highly-touted quarterback Shedeur Sanders in favor of Texas offensive lineman Kevin Banks Jr. The move shocked many, considering the Saints’ ongoing uncertainty at the quarterback position.
Sanders was widely expected to land in New Orleans, given his elite talent and the team’s need for a long-term solution under center. However, the Saints chose to solidify their offensive line, believing that investment would bring more stability in the long run.
This unexpected decision caused Sanders to fall further down the draft board, creating a ripple effect that altered the strategy of several teams, including Pittsburgh, which had been monitoring quarterbacks closely throughout the draft process.
Though the Steelers had shown interest in potentially drafting a quarterback, they reassessed when the top options didn’t align with their future plans. Having learned from the rushed selection of Kenny Pickett in 2022, they chose a more measured approach this time around.
Instead of reaching for a quarterback, Pittsburgh stuck to its roots by adding a premier defensive player in Harmon—an athlete who fits the team’s hard-nosed, defense-first philosophy perfectly.
Harmon isn’t just a fallback pick—he’s one of the most highly rated defensive tackles in this year’s class. Among interior linemen, only Michigan’s Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant were selected before him, highlighting the level of talent Pittsburgh secured.
Analysts praised the Steelers for maximizing the value of their first-round pick, noting that Harmon’s presence will significantly strengthen their defensive front for years to come. His power, quickness, and football IQ make him a potential immediate impact player.
Pittsburgh’s disciplined draft approach reflects a front office that’s learning from past mistakes while staying true to the franchise’s core identity. Rather than being swayed by hype or pressure, they made a choice rooted in fit and long-term success.
As the dust settles on the first round, the Steelers are being hailed for pulling off one of the smartest moves of the night. By prioritizing stability and proven talent over flashy gambles, Pittsburgh may have landed a future star while reinforcing their defensive legacy.
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