NFL Draft Notebook: Steelers eye Jalen Milroe, Bills target Landon Jackson, and more

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the latest draft rumors are heating up. In this week’s NFL Draft Notebook, we break down the most recent prospect news and notes, with a strong focus on pro day performances.

Could Pittsburgh be Jalen Milroe’s future home?

Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe had dinner with Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, general manager Omar Khan, and quarterbacks coach Tom Arth the night before his pro day, fueling speculation that he could be a potential target for Pittsburgh in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Milroe’s skill set makes him an intriguing fit for the Steelers, as his playing style closely mirrors that of former Steeler Justin Fields, who signed with the New York Jets this offseason. Like Fields, Milroe thrives in an offense that incorporates RPOs and designed quarterback runs, a scheme that could maximize his dual-threat ability.

Another reason Pittsburgh could be an ideal landing spot is the presence of veteran quarterbacks. Whether it’s Russell Wilson, last season’s starter, or a potential addition like Aaron Rodgers, the Steelers are likely to have an experienced signal-caller under center in 2025. This would give Milroe valuable time to develop as a passer before potentially competing for the starting job in 2026.

If Pittsburgh does select Milroe, it’s unlikely to be with their first-round pick, 21st overall. Instead, the Steelers could look to trade down, accumulating additional draft capital since they currently hold only six picks. Moving into the middle of the second round, where they currently lack a selection, could be the perfect range for Pittsburgh to land Milroe while addressing other needs.

Bills showing strong interest in Landon Jackson

The Buffalo Bills have shown considerable interest in defensive end Landon Jackson, meeting with him at least eight times during the pre-draft process. This level of attention is unsurprising, as Buffalo aims to bolster a defense that struggled at times to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2024.

Jackson has been a force over the past two seasons, recording 13 sacks while also excelling against the run. He earned an impressive 88.8 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking third among all defensive ends.

At the NFL Combine, Jackson showcased his athleticism with a 4.68-second 40-yard dash and a 40.5-inch vertical jump. He also reportedly ran a 4.55-second 20-yard shuttle and impressed in positional drills at Arkansas’s Pro Day on Monday.

"I think I performed great. I jumped really well on vertical and broad, ran a solid 40 [meter dash]. I thought it was going to be a little quicker, but I mean, you can't complain about [4.68 seconds] ever. And then I did really well in position drills as well, so I think it went great."

Landon Jackson

With the 30th overall pick in the first round, the Bills are expected to strongly consider Jackson as they look to reinforce their defensive front.

Carson Schwesinger to hold private workout after missing UCLA Pro Day

UCLA middle linebacker Carson Schwesinger, one of the Bruins’ top draft prospects, was unable to participate in the school’s Pro Day due to a minor hamstring injury. Schwesinger is coming off a breakout season in which he recorded 136 tackles, including a nation-leading 90 solo tackles, after registering just 27 total tackles in his first two seasons.

To make up for his absence, Schwesinger will hold a private workout in April, which could be crucial in solidifying his draft stock. If he performs well, he has the potential to be a second-round pick. His high draft grade is due to his exceptional instincts and ability to quickly diagnose run plays. While he may not be the most fluid linebacker, he held up well in coverage last season, earning a solid 74.1 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus.

One team to watch is the Los Angeles Rams, who are looking to strengthen their linebacker corps and have already met with Schwesinger.

49ers showing strong interest in Oregon prospects

The San Francisco 49ers had a significant presence at Oregon’s Pro Day, with general manager John Lynch and eight scouts in attendance. This level of interest makes sense, as the Ducks have two prospects who could be strong fits for the 49ers early in the 2025 NFL Draft.

One of those prospects is defensive lineman Derrick Harmon, who offers positional versatility, having split time between defensive tackle and defensive end this past season. Standing 6-foot-4 with 34 3/8-inch arms, he possesses ideal length for the defensive front. Harmon is also an effective pass rusher, particularly from the interior, where he recorded five sacks this season.

The other standout prospect is offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. The 6-foot-5, 311-pound lineman is a projected long-term NFL starter, thanks in part to his exceptional footwork. His quickness allowed him to surrender just one sack this past season, and his skill set makes him capable of playing either left or right tackle at the next level.

If either Harmon or Conerly Jr. is available when the 49ers make their second-round selection at No. 41, expect them to be strong considerations for San Francisco.

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