Steelers Stands On Top Of All AFC Draft Classes

On the surface, it may have been the least exciting draft class of the Omar Khan era. However, one Sports Illustrated analyst ranked it as the best draft class in the AFC.

Despite lacking a second-round pick and opting not to draft a quarterback early, the Pittsburgh Steelers maximized their selections. NFL analyst and writer Matt Verderame ranked the Steelers’ 2025 draft class as the best in the AFC. Verderame praised the team for selecting Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon in the first round and Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson in the third round to share the backfield with Jaylen Warren.

"Pittsburgh didn’t have its second-round pick because of the DK Metcalf trade and still nailed the draft. Harmon is a stud inside who should pair nicely with Cam Heyward, while Johnson will make a nasty tandem with Jaylen Warren in the backfield. Sawyer is also a good value who should thrive in Pittsburgh’s system, with no team doing a better job of coaching front-seven talents over the years."

Although he has not garnered much attention, the Steelers made a valuable addition by selecting Iowa defensive tackle Yahya Black with the 164th overall pick. Standing at 6'6" and weighing 340 lbs, Black earned an impressive 81.9 run-defense grade last season at Iowa, according to Pro Football Focus.

Perhaps the team's most underrated selection was seventh-round defensive back Donte Kent out of Central Michigan. Last season with the Chippewas, Kent recorded nine pass deflections and 53 tackles. In addition to being a reliable zone cornerback, Kent is also a capable special teams player, contributing as a punt returner.