The AFC North is one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL. The Pittsburgh Steelers clinched the division last year but fell apart in the playoffs after losing to the Cleveland Browns. The Steelers front office made a lot of moves this offseason.
After having one of the best defenses in the league last year, Pittsburgh lost some key players in free agency. It seems the team is trying to balance out the roster though, which could pay off next year. The run game was atrocious last season, and everything they've done indicates the Steelers want to improve in that area.
Overall, the Steelers were able to walk away with some solid pieces to build upon. Pittsburgh is notoriously known for drafting well, which is why they're almost always near the top of the league. It's unclear how this franchise will be in 2021, but this draft class provides excitement for 2022 and beyond. Here are the Pittsburgh Steelers 2021 NFL draft grades for every pick.
1.24 Najee Harris, RB: A+
Najee Harris entered the draft as the number one running back prospect. He has everything a team could ask for in a running back. He's big, fast, quick, and physical. Harris is better in the passing game than he is perceived and will make an immediate impact for Pittsburgh next year. Look for Najee Harris to make a splash during his rookie season.
2.55 Pat Freiermuth, TE: A
Did the Steelers need a tight end in the second round? Not necessarily, but Pat Freiermuth is an absolute beast that cannot be ignored. He's already a solid blocker, runs smooth routes, and has consistent hands. He'll likely play more as a blocker to start his career, but Freiermuth will eventually be the starting tight end in Pittsburgh.
3.87 Kendrick Green, OG: A
The Steelers offensive line was rather questionable last year, as they couldn't create run lanes for the ball carriers. Kendrick Green is a mauling guard who did just that during his time in Illinois. Look for Green to at least compete for a starting spot this season, as ESPN already has him listed as the starting center.
4.128 Dan Moore Jr., OT: B+
As I said, the offensive line was an issue and Pittsburgh knew it. Dan Moore Jr. joins a group of offensive tackles who are all competing for a starting spot on the roster. The Steelers are going about rebuilding their offensive line the right way. As long as the team is patient, the best available player will be the starter. Moore Jr. has the potential to win the job outright, as he's been a consistent player during his time at Texas A&M.
4.140 Buddy Johnson, ILB: B
Buddy Johnson played as the starting linebacker for Texas A&M last year, racking up 85 total tackles, four sacks, two forced fumbles, and one interception. He has plenty of game experience in college and will use that to his advantage. Johnson aims to be a legitimate prospect that adds depth to an already good linebacker group.
5.156 Isaiahh Loudermilk, DT: C
The defensive side of the ball is where this team thrives, especially in the front seven. Isaiahh Loudermilk provides depth and could earn some sporadic playing time as the years go on. As of right now though, Loudermilk will have to sit on the bench and wait for Cameron Heyward to leave. That isn't likely to happen anytime soon, as Heyward isn't set to hit free agency until 2025.
6.216 Quincy Roche, LB: A-
It was a surprise to see Quincy Roche drop so far in the draft, but he landed in the perfect spot for him to have a future in the NFL. Roche took a step back in production after transferring to Miami (Fl.) which is likely why he fell. However, Roche has the potential to be a starter in the league. He should have the opportunity to rotate in and get some reps this year. If he develops the way some believe he will, the Steelers might have walked away with the steal of the draft.
7.245 Tre Norwood, CB: C+
A cornerback/safety hybrid, Trey Norwood will have a few different ways to make the roster. It'll be hard for him to see much playing time on the defense this year, but he will have the opportunity to be a solid special teams player right away.
7.254 Pressley Harvin III, P: A
Punting is an underrated aspect of football and the Steelers struggled in that department last year. So much so the front office selected Pressley Harvin III to improve it. Harvin III is big for a punter, but during his time at Georgia Tech, he proved to be one of the more consistent punters in the nation. He actually has a solid highlight reel, where he throws a dime for a touchdown.
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