The Pittsburgh Steelers made headlines during the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Washington linebacker Carson Bruener with their first pick in the seventh round, the 226th overall. This choice has a special significance, as it marks a generational connection to the franchise. Carson is the son of Mark Bruener, a former tight end who played for the Steelers from 1995 to 2003 and now serves as a scout for the team.
Carson Bruener, standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 227 pounds, has already made a name for himself on the field. In his final season at the University of Washington, he recorded a team-high 104 tackles, along with three interceptions and five pass breakups. His performance earned him third-team All-Big Ten honors, highlighting his skills as a linebacker. Known for his toughness and instincts, Bruener was a core special teams player during the last two seasons, showcasing his versatility and work ethic.
Steelers linebacker coach Scott McCurley expressed confidence in Carson’s potential, drawing parallels between him and his father. “Legend here in Pittsburgh,” McCurley remarked after the draft, referencing Mark Bruener’s impactful career. “Watched him play growing up and I think that pedigree really carries over when you see Carson play. How smart he is, instinctive. You can see that coming out in him on the football field.”
The Bruener family has deep roots in Washington state, both having grown up there and played collegiate football at the University of Washington. Carson recalled fond memories of visiting the Steelers’ facility during his high school years, where he observed the team’s draft war room. This connection to the Steelers adds a layer of nostalgia and excitement to his selection.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding his pick, Carson Bruener faces an uphill battle to secure a spot on the Steelers’ 53-man roster. The team’s starting inside linebacker positions are already filled by Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson, with Cole Holcomb also expected to return. Additionally, the Steelers added Malik Harrison in free agency, and Mark Robinson, who was a valuable special teams player last season, is in the mix as well.
Carson’s primary opportunity to make the team will likely come through special teams, much like Robinson, who was also a seventh-round pick. Bruener’s athleticism was evident during the pre-draft process when he clocked a 4.58-second 40-yard dash. However, there are concerns about his ability to move sideline to sideline, and he is considered somewhat limited in pass coverage. This means he will need to excel in special teams to carve out a role on the team.
As the Steelers look to rebuild and return to Super Bowl contention, the drafting of Carson Bruener fits into their broader strategy. General Manager Omar Khan has been praised for his ability to balance immediate needs with long-term value, and the selection of Bruener reflects this patient approach. The Steelers have a strong reputation for developing late-round talent, and there is hope that Bruener can become another success story.
In addition to Bruener, the Steelers had a busy draft, addressing multiple needs across the roster. They used their first-round pick to select standout defensive tackle Derrick Harmon from Oregon, who is expected to play a significant role in bolstering the defensive line. In the third round, they drafted Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson, followed by Ohio State linebacker Jack Sawyer in the fourth round. The Steelers also acquired defensive tackle Yahya Black with the 164th pick after trading down earlier in the draft.
With the addition of quarterback Will Howard in the sixth round, the Steelers have positioned themselves to compete in the upcoming season. Head Coach Mike Tomlin faces pressure to end his playoff win drought, and this draft class could provide the young talent necessary to push the franchise forward.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Carson Bruener as he embarks on his professional career. The legacy of the Bruener family in Pittsburgh looms large, and fans will be eager to see if Carson can live up to the expectations set by his father. With hard work and determination, he has the potential to make a significant impact on the Steelers’ defense and special teams.
In conclusion, the Steelers’ selection of Carson Bruener not only strengthens their linebacker corps but also brings a sense of continuity and family tradition to the franchise. As training camp approaches, Bruener will have the opportunity to prove himself and carve out his own path in the NFL.
