2021 NFL Draft: Recap and analysis of every pick for all 32 teams

1 (24): Najee Harris, RB, Alabama

Najee Harris is one of the most impressive receiving backs I have evaluated in the last 10 years. He evolved his game at Alabama to the point that he could legitimately line up at outside or slot receiver and hold his own as a route runner.

In addition to being a three-down threat, Harris is a tremendous ball-carrier with vision, tackle-breaking ability and excellent burst.

2 (55): Pat Freiermuth, TE, Penn State

Although Freiermuth is a strong tight end prospect, the Steelers passed on some good offensive line talent to take him here.

With that being said, Freiermuth gives them an athletic receiving option at the position and he should be a good pass catcher at tight end for a long time.

3 (87): Kendrick Green, OL, Illinois

Kendrick Green was one of the more freakish athletes of his draft class at his size and position group, grading in the 99th percentile in speed and explosiveness drills. He has guard/center versatility where the Steelers need help immediately.

4 (128): Dan Moore Jr., OT, Texas A&M

Mostly a starter in college at left tackle, the Steelers could thrust Moore into duty sooner rather than later. He has the length and movement skills to hold up against NFL competition with nearly 40 college starts under his belt as well.

4 (140): Buddy Johnson, LB, Texas A&M

The Steelers lost Bud Dupree in free agency, and obviously it hurt them to not have a player with some version of that name on their roster. Buddy Johnson was wildly productive behind the line of scrimmage for Texas A&M with 24.5 career tackles for loss. He makes plays all over the field.

5 (156): Isaiahh Loudermilk, EDGE, Wisconsin

Loudermilk was a curious pick (in a trade up) for the Steelers with no standout athletic traits and very modest production. Clearly, this was a guy they prioritized, so it will be intriguing to find out why they loved him so much.

6 (216): Quincy Roche, EDGE, Miami

Roche was undoubtedly one of the best value picks of the entire 2021 NFL Draft. His pass rush productivity and toughness off the edge should earn him a roster spot in Pittsburgh and a spot in their EDGE rotation.

7 (245): Tre Norwood, CB, Oklahoma

After picking off five passes this past year, Norwood certainly made himself draftable. He didn’t test well athletically, however, and will face an uphill battle to make this Steelers roster.

7 (254): Pressley Harvin, P, Georgia Tech

Give this guy a Google. He’s one of the most unique punters you’ll ever see. He’s built like a defensive lineman and he can really launch it.