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NFL Draft: 5 players Steelers should draft in first round

By Rucker Haringey

Dec 4, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin on the sideline during the game against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin on the sideline during the game against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Darnell Wright has star potential at tackle. (Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports)
Darnell Wright has star potential at tackle. (Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports) /

Players the Steelers take in the first round of the NFL Draft

3. OT Darnell Wright

Improving Pickett’s protection is a key offseason priority for the Steelers’ front office. They didn’t add any significant pieces to the line via free agency which makes selecting a road-grader at No. 17 a real consideration.

Wright excelled at Tennessee playing right tackle in his final season, but he played left tackle earlier in his career with the Volunteers. A move back to the left side could make him an ideal choice for Pittsburgh in the first round.

Tomlin likes his offensive lineman to be road graders and Wright fits that description. He’s got long arms and a good base of power that allows him to generate push at the line of scrimmage. His patience during his pass-blocking sets makes him one of the best all-around tackles in this year’s draft class.

Wright might not be on the board when the Steelers go on the clock, but he’ll be a tempting prospect for Tomlin if he’s still available. Pittsburgh needs to get better at tackle and drafting Wright would help them do just that.

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