{"id":110252,"date":"2025-03-25T11:18:42","date_gmt":"2025-03-25T11:18:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/steelers-select-kenneth-grant-and-dj-giddens-in-updated-7-round-mock-draft\/"},"modified":"2025-03-25T11:18:42","modified_gmt":"2025-03-25T11:18:42","slug":"steelers-select-kenneth-grant-and-dj-giddens-in-updated-7-round-mock-draft","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/steelers-select-kenneth-grant-and-dj-giddens-in-updated-7-round-mock-draft\/","title":{"rendered":"Steelers select Kenneth Grant and DJ Giddens in updated 7-round mock draft"},"content":{"rendered":"

What key positions are the Pittsburgh Steelers focusing on in their mock draft?<\/strong> How does the potential addition of Aaron Rodgers affect the Steelers’ draft strategy?<\/strong> What are the notable prospects being considered for the Steelers in the upcoming draft?<\/strong> In what round is Kenneth Grant projected to be selected, and what makes him a valuable pick for the Steelers?<\/strong> How will the departure of Najee Harris impact the Steelers’ decision-making at the running back position?<\/strong> <\/p>\n

With 2025 NFL Draft prospects making the most of their pro days, it feels like the perfect time to roll out a new mock draft\u2014one built around the idea of quarterback Aaron Rodgers and potential trade fodder wide receiver George Pickens suiting up for the Steel City this season. With both the quarterback and wide receiver positions seemingly locked in\u2014at least for the short term\u2014the Steelers were free to focus on more pressing needs in the first few rounds of this mock draft. <\/p>\n

Round 1, Pick 21: Kenneth Grant, DT \u2014 Michigan<\/h3>\n

The Pittsburgh Steelers are in dire need of a defensive lineman after failing to make a splash signing in free agency, and the ideal prospect falls right into their laps. Ole Miss DT Walter Nolen or Oregon DT Derrick Harmon would be strong options as well, but the Steelers are able to grab arguably the second-best defensive lineman in the 2025 NFL Draft in Michigan’s 6’5", 300-plus lb DT Kenneth Grant.<\/p>\n

Round 3, Pick 83: DJ Giddens, RB \u2014 Kansas State<\/h3>\n

Najee Harris’ departure\u2014even with the sour grapes he\u2019s displayed since leaving\u2014still stings for the Steelers’ 2025 rushing attack. RBs Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell have flashed greatness at various points in their careers, but Pittsburgh would be wise to bring in competition for a three-way race to the RB1 spot with Kansas State\u2019s DJ Giddens.<\/p>\n

Round 4, Pick 123: Will Howard, QB \u2014 Ohio State<\/h3>\n

Despite an abysmal combine performance, QB Will Howard looked great during Ohio State\u2019s College Championship run in 2024. The Steelers would be foolish to pass on an experienced and proven quarterback in the fourth round due to poor testing numbers alone.<\/p>\n

Round 5, Pick 156: Quincy Riley, CB \u2014 Louisville<\/h3>\n

The Steelers take a chance on the 5’11", 194 lb, twitched-up CB Quincy Riley\u2014who tallied 15 career interceptions during his collegiate career. His background in track helps boost his value in the athleticism department.<\/p>\n

Round 6, Pick 185: Jack Nelson, OT \u2014 Wisconsin<\/h3>\n

Jack Nelson, while definitely a project at the next level, possesses fantastic size and footwork at 6’7", 314 lbs. The Steelers\u2019 loss of Dan Moore Jr. hurt their depth, but the return of Troy Fautanu from injury allows them to push offensive tackle needs to the later rounds with the Nelson selection.<\/p>\n

Round 7, Pick 229: Ty Robinson, DL \u2014 Nebraska<\/h3>\n

Ty Robinson is a perfect blend of raw strength, quickness, and size for a seventh-round defensive lineman. The Steelers are in desperate need of power on the defensive line, as evidenced by their late-2024 season struggles to stop the run, and Robinson would at least be given a chance to be part of the solution.<\/p>\n

Steelers Grab Kenneth Grant, DJ Giddens in New 7-Round Mock Draft<\/h3>\n

As the NFL Draft approaches, teams are evaluating talent and refining their strategies to fill crucial roster gaps. For the Pittsburgh Steelers, the 2024 draft signifies a pivotal moment, especially with hopes of returning to playoff contention. In a newly released 7-round mock draft, experts have the Steelers selecting defensive tackle Kenneth Grant and running back DJ Giddens, reflecting a balanced approach that prioritizes both the defensive front and offensive dynamics.<\/p>\n

Round 1: The Need for Defensive Reinforcement<\/h4>\n

The Steelers have long been synonymous with tough, physical defense, and this draft is no different. Kenneth Grant, a formidable defensive tackle, stands out among the prospects. At 6’4" and weighing 330 pounds, Grant possesses an impressive blend of size, strength, and agility. He is known for his ability to disrupt the offensive line and create pressure on the quarterback, making him a prime target for the Steelers, who aim to bolster their defensive front.<\/p>\n

In the 2023 season, Pittsburgh’s defense has shown resilience but has struggled against more versatile offensive lines. Adding Grant to the lineup could allow for the rotation of players, keeping them fresh throughout the game while increasing their overall effectiveness. His capacity to clog running lanes and demand double teams will free up playmakers like T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick to create havoc in opposing backfields.<\/p>\n

Round 2: Revolutionizing the Run Game<\/h4>\n

With the second-round pick, the Steelers are projected to select DJ Giddens, an explosive running back from Kansas State. Giddens, known for his speed and elusiveness, presents an exciting prospect to complement the running game that has faced challenges over the last few seasons. In 2023, Pittsburgh showcased flashes of a strong rushing attack, but inconsistencies at the position have hampered their overall performance. Giddens brings a new dynamic to the backfield, providing both the ability to grind out tough yards and breakaway speed to stretch the field.<\/p>\n

Giddens’ versatility will allow offensive coordinator Matt Canada to put him in various positions, making him a valuable asset in both the running and passing games. Pairing him with Najee Harris could create a two-headed monster in the backfield, forcing defenses to adapt and opening up opportunities for the passing game, particularly for quarterback Kenny Pickett.<\/p>\n

Rounds 3-7: Filling Additional Needs<\/h4>\n

While the selections of Grant and Giddens lay a solid foundation, the Steelers have a variety of additional needs to address in the later rounds. Here\u2019s a brief look at potential picks in those rounds:<\/p>\n