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.

Three former Wisconsin Badgers have made ProFootballFocus's list of the NFL's top edge rushers for 2025, showcasing their impact in the league. T.J. Watt, representing the Pittsburgh Steelers, is ranked third, following Myles Garrett and Micah Parsons. Watt’s impressive 2024 season included 60 tackles, 11.5 sacks, and a league-best six forced fumbles, earning him a seventh consecutive Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honors.

Andrew Van Ginkel, now with the Minnesota Vikings, secured the seventh spot on the list after a breakout year that saw him achieve a Pro Bowl nod and a $23 million contract extension. Meanwhile, Nick Herbig, also with the Steelers, has emerged as a promising pass-rusher. His PFF pass-rush grade ranked him high among edge defenders, signaling a bright future ahead.

Defensive standouts Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig are making waves in the Pittsburgh Steelers' linebacker corps, demonstrating skill and versatility that could reshape the team's defensive strategy. Highsmith, a third-round pick in 2020, has consistently improved his game, becoming a crucial element in the Steelers' pass rush. Meanwhile, rookie Nick Herbig has shown great potential, adapting quickly to the league and impressing coaches with his athleticism and awareness on the field.

The duo's performance during pre-season has raised questions about the Steelers' starting linebacker lineup, particularly as they look to complement star T.J. Watt. As both players continue to develop, their chemistry and ability to read plays could be pivotal in the Steelers’ defensive schemes, making them valuable assets for fantasy players looking for emerging stars in the league.

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.