Michigan State's Jayden Reed. Nick King/Lansing State Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK

Are Steelers eyeing their next great mid-round WR?

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 4/12/23

The Steelers have been one of the best teams, if not the best, at drafting receivers outside of the first round. Are they about to strike gold again in the 2023 NFL Draft?

Pittsburgh is hosting Michigan State WR Jayden Reed, a projected fourth-round pick, and he may be the team's latest example of a mid-round gem.

Not sure I’ve seen a player tied more to the Steelers this draft process than Jayden Reed https://t.co/dWzlbmlDmO
— Mike Nicastro (@MikedUpSports1) April 12, 2023

Reed ranks as Pro Football Focus' No. 129 overall prospect and it just so happens the Steelers are scheduled to pick just before that at No. 120 in the fourth round.

"Reed didn't have much help within Michigan State's passing attack, but he did all he could. He's a nuanced route runner who knows how to separate," PFF writes.

It didn't take Reed long to stand out from the rest, posting 56 catches for 797 yards and eight touchdowns as a freshman at Western Michigan in 2018. However, his most impressive season came in 2021 when he totaled 59 catches for 1,026 yards and 10 touchdowns.

The 22-year-old could still rise up draft boards by the end of the month, but for now, Pittsburgh is keeping a close eye on him as he could become its next great mid-round wide receiver.

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