The excitement is building as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, and the Pittsburgh Steelers are poised to make some impactful selections. With the draft set to begin on April 24, the Steelers have their eyes on several prospects who could bolster their roster. In the latest mock drafts, Pittsburgh is projected to make strategic picks that could reshape their future.
At 21st overall in the first round, the Steelers are expected to select Will Campbell, an offensive lineman from LSU. Campbell is widely regarded as one of the best pure players in this year's draft, but questions about his arm length—measured at under 33 inches—have caused him to drop down the boards. This is precisely why he fits well with the Steelers. While they hope Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu will be their tackles of the future, Campbell could step in as a guard to replace Isaac Seumalo, who won't be around forever. If either tackle struggles, Campbell can transition to the outside and be a starter for a decade or more.
Moving into the third round, the Steelers are projected to pick Isaiah Bond, a wide receiver from Texas, at 83rd overall. Bond was once considered among the top wide receiver prospects, but injuries and a disappointing performance at the combine have seen him fall down draft boards. If he can regain his form, he could provide a significant boost to Pittsburgh's receiving corps.
In the fourth round, the Steelers are eyeing Will Howard, a quarterback from Ohio State, with the 123rd overall pick. Howard fits the mold of what the Steelers look for in a quarterback: big, athletic, and possessing a solid pedigree. While he may not have elite tools, the Steelers need to take a chance on a quarterback at some point in the draft, and Howard could be a valuable addition, especially if he falls to round four.
Finally, in the fifth round, Pittsburgh is projected to select Zy Alexander, a cornerback from LSU, with the 156th overall pick. Alexander boasts the length, speed, and mirror-match ability that the Steelers prioritize in their cornerback prospects. If he is available at their fifth-round pick, expect him to don the Black and Gold next season.
As the draft approaches, the New York Giants are also preparing for their moment in the spotlight. Holding the third pick overall, the Giants have a crucial opportunity to turn their fortunes around after a dismal 3-14 season last year. With eight total picks in the draft, general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll are under significant pressure to make impactful selections.
The Giants' draft picks include: Round 1, Pick 3 (3 overall); Round 2, Pick 2 (34 overall); Round 3, Pick 1 (65 overall); Round 3, Pick 35 (99 overall, compensatory selection); Round 4, Pick 3 (105 overall); Round 5, Pick 16 (154 overall, from Seattle); Round 7, Pick 3 (219 overall); and Round 7, Pick 30 (246 overall, from Buffalo).
With the draft kicking off on April 24, the Giants are weighing their options carefully. A key focus will be securing a long-term solution at quarterback. Although they signed veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston in free agency, the short-term commitments to these players shouldn't deter the Giants from pursuing a franchise quarterback. If Miami's Cam Ward is off the board, the team may look to Colorado's Shedeur Sanders, who could be a valuable pick at No. 3.
The Giants have made significant moves in free agency, including the signings of cornerback Paulson Adebo, safety Jevon Holland, and wide receiver Darius Slayton. These additions aim to solidify their roster, but the draft will be crucial for long-term success. They need to address key positions, particularly quarterback, defensive line, and right guard.
Defensive line remains a critical area of need. While the Giants added depth with veterans Roy Robertson-Harris and Jeremiah Ledbetter, they still lack an impact player to complement All-Pro Dexter Lawrence. The Giants are expected to seek a player who can fill this role on Day 2 of the draft.
Another position of concern is right guard, where the re-signing of 35-year-old Greg Van Roten was not the original plan. After pursuing top guard Will Fries, who signed a lucrative deal with the Minnesota Vikings, the Giants may look to upgrade this position in the draft.
Mock drafts leading up to the event have featured varying predictions for the Giants. A March 24 mock draft from Ben Standig has the Giants selecting Heisman winner Travis Hunter at No. 3, while a March 20 beat writer mock draft suggests they could settle for Sanders. With the draft just around the corner, the Giants' decision-makers are weighing their options carefully.
As the countdown to the 2025 NFL Draft continues, fans are eager to see how both the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants will approach their selections. With critical needs to address and a wealth of talent available, the draft promises to be an exciting event that could set the course for both franchises in the coming years.
