The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2023 draft class is shaping up to be a transformative group under new GM Omar Khan, with potential for four starters from seven selections. Offensive tackle Broderick Jones, now pivoting to left tackle, shows promise for a significant role. Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. is expected to rebound strongly in his second season, while defensive tackle Keeanu Benton will benefit from the presence of new teammate Derrick Harmon, enhancing the defensive line's strength. Tight end Darnell Washington is anticipated to increase his offensive output, particularly with QB Aaron Rodgers. Linebacker Nick Herbig stands ready as a formidable backup, and Cory Trice Jr. is in a competitive battle for the No. 3 cornerback spot, showcasing the depth and talent of this year's draft class.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a rebuilding phase, with a roster featuring numerous young talents but few standout players under 25. Pro Football Focus recently highlighted the absence of Steelers in their top 25 under 25, sparking an internal evaluation of the team's youth. Topping the list is Zach Frazier, an impressive center who, despite only one season under his belt, shows potential to join the ranks of the franchise's legendary centers.

Next is EDGE Nick Herbig, who contributed significantly with 5.5 sacks in 2024 despite limited playtime. Following him is cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who had a promising rookie year but struggled in his second season. Defensive tackle Keeanu Benton rounds out the top four, known for his physical presence, while rookie Derrick Harmon claims the fifth spot, highlighting the overall lack of depth in the young player pool.

The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a difficult position as they miss out on the recently released list of the top 25 NFL players under 25 years old, an indication of their current roster challenges. With aging star players and a lack of elite young talent, the Steelers are left to ponder their future.

The only potential candidate for this elite group is rookie center Zach Frazier. Drafted in the second round of 2024, he quickly adapted to the starting role due to an injury to Nate Herbig, finishing as the second-highest rated rookie offensive lineman. While Frazier shows promise, other youngsters like Joey Porter Jr. and Keeanu Benton have not developed as expected, leaving the Steelers with more questions than answers regarding their future core.

The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense is seeing positive recognition, particularly their defensive line, which Pro Football Focus recently touted as the best in the league. This accolade highlights the effectiveness of veterans like Cam Heyward and emerging talents like T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. Despite the team's offensive struggles in 2024, the defensive unit has maintained a high level of performance, primarily due to their formidable line anchored by proven players. This suggests that the Steelers' investment in defense is paying dividends, making them a competitive force even amidst ongoing transitions on offense.

The Pittsburgh Steelers recently hosted Toledo defensive tackle Darius Alexander for a pre-draft visit, adding to their list of intriguing prospects ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft. Alexander, standing 6'4" and weighing 305 lbs, is considered an underrated player with significant potential, having flown under the radar due to a less prominent collegiate career. His combination of size and strength makes him an ideal fit for Pittsburgh's defensive line, likely beside established players like Cameron Heyward and Keeanu Benton.

With a projected draft position outside the first round, the Steelers may find themselves in a favorable position to select Alexander later in the draft, potentially leveraging their first-round pick to secure a different top talent. The strategic consideration of best-player-available versus filling specific needs will be a critical dialogue for the Steelers' front office as they prepare for the upcoming draft.