Breaking down the Steelers picks in new 7-round mock draft

[ASFN Admin]

The folks over at Pro Football Network have a new seven-round mock draft out just days before the start of the 2025 NFL draft. In this simulation, PFN has Pittsburgh working a trade with the Houston Texans to move back to pick No. 25 and getting pick No. 53 in this year's draft as well as a third-round pick in the 2026 NFL draft.

But they don't stop there. PFN pulls off a second trade for the Steelers, sending wide receiver George PIckens to the Kansas City Chiefs for a fifth-round pick (No. 133). As much as we loved the first trade, the second one blows up this entire draft for the Steelers. I'd have soon left Pickens on the team, and miss out on that fourth-round pick. That opens up so many more opportunities for that second-round pick.

Let's break down the Steelers picks.

First round - QB Jalen Milroe - Alabama​

This is an interesting predicament. PFN has the Steelers taking Jalen Milroe, which on some level makes sense but fellow quarterback Jaxson Dart is also on the board. Dart might be more polished but Milroe's upside is better.

Second round - WR Jayden Higgins - Iowa State​

This is when I knew things were going sideways. They admit this pick is a hedge about a George Pickens trade and we are not a fan at all of making that move. We hate it even more when you see the terms of the trade.

Third round - RB Kaleb Johnson - Iowa​

Kaleb Johnson is one of a few backs in this draft we feel confident can come in as a rookie and be a lead back, He's a great fit for the Steelers.

Fourth round - DT Vernon Broughton - Texas​

We can't imagine Broughton lasting until the fourth round but if he does, the Steelers would be wise to make this pick.

Fifth round - S Lathon Ransom - Ohio State​

The trade that sent Pickens away yields them Ransom, which really puts an exclamation point on just how bad this trade is.

Fifth round - DT Ty Hamilton - Ohio State​

We love the idea of doubling up on defensive tackles. Where Broughton brings more length and power, Hamilton is shorter and powerful as a run stuffer.

Sixth round - EDGE Antwaun Powell-Ryland - Virginia Tech​

Another pick that left us shaking our heads. The Steelers have no need for an edge rusher and there are several offensive linemen on the board who would fill a bigger need.

Seventh round - CB John Marshall Jr. - Florida​

Marshall is a nice way to finish up the draft and a solid developmental prospect.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: 2025 NFL draft: Analyzing the Steelers picks in new mock draft

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