PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers are in urgent need of wide receiver help if they hope to compete effectively in the upcoming season.
With last season plagued by issues at the receiver position, the focus is squarely on finding new talent at wideout.
In a recent mock draft by Dane Brugler of the New York Times, the Steelers are projected to select Emeka Egbuka with the No. 21 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Egbuka will complete his fourth and final season with Ohio State after the team’s appearance in the 2025 College Football Playoff Final.
Over four seasons, Egbuka has accumulated 2,804 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns for the Buckeyes. He also has two rushing touchdowns, both coming during his sophomore year in 2022.
Known for his sharp route-running and impressive agility, Egbuka’s 14.7 yards per reception in college suggest he could become a strong middle-distance threat at the professional level.
As Brugler notes, the Steelers have had mixed results when selecting talented but undisciplined receivers in early rounds. “It’s time to invest in a pass catcher like Egbuka, who may not have an astronomical ceiling but already possesses a pro-level skill set and could be a reliable target for the next decade.”
While Egbuka did miss part of the 2023 season due to a knee injury, concerns about his health may arise during the pre-draft process.
Brugler also mocked Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston to the Steelers, addressing another key need after the team struggled with a vulnerable secondary in the latter part of the season.
It’s important to remember that mock drafts this early are speculative. The draft order and team needs may shift as the Packers, currently at No. 23, and others finalize their spots, which could impact who remains available for the Steelers.
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