Pittsburgh Steelers: 2022 NFL Draft First Round Targets
By Evan Bachman
![Jan 16, 2022; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin reacts during the first half in an AFC Wild Card playoff football game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports Jan 16, 2022; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin reacts during the first half in an AFC Wild Card playoff football game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/c424ca299e4e593132e50fcbd5ac3b7548f98a6c9c7e81522746ddc407611d9f.jpg)
Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh
We know that the Pittsburgh Steelers have been rumored to be big fans of Malik Willis, however if he comes off the board, Pickett is another solid option for them.
In fact in my recent mock draft I projected the Steelers to take Pickett at 20th overall. One thing to keep in mind with that however is that it was a no-trade mock draft, so it may not be a super realistic scenario as the Steelers would likely have to trade up at least a few spots to secure Pickett.
Kenny Pickett really raised some eyebrows last season as he had an outstanding season where he threw for 4,308 yards, 42 touchdowns, and seven interceptions over 13 games.
Pickett checks a lot of the boxes of what you want to see when looking for a potential franchise quarterback. He’s got a good arm as he’s capable of throws that not everyone can make, he’s accurate, and he’s a good athlete who can extend plays with his legs.
He’s not a perfect prospect by any means, but I think he’s pretty much a lock to hear his name called in the first round on draft night and he’s certainly an option the Steelers will be considering.