The Pittsburgh Steelers have been consistently associated with addressing their offensive line needs in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Speculation suggests they may target either a tackle or a center with their 20th pick. Among the potential center prospects, Oregon's Jackson Powers-Johnson has emerged as a name frequently linked to the Steelers.
However, as the draft approaches, another center prospect the Steelers have had their eyes on, Zach Frazier, has garnered attention through interviews and pre-draft events. He has been witnessing a surge in his draft stock. Concurrently, reports and murmurs surfaced indicating a decline in Powers-Johnson's draft stock.
In light of these developments, Powers-Johnson made an appearance on The Insiders show on NFL Network on Tuesday to discuss the upcoming draft. Notably, Powers-Johnson revealed his intention to attend the draft. During his interview with Ian Rapoport, he was asked about his confidence in his ability to be considered a first-round talent.
“I mean definitely to see the mock drafts. It’s more for my parents to look at and my friends and family to send me because they are big football fans… I’m not harping too much on it. I would love to go in the first round. I feel like I’m a first-round player and a first-round center but it’s not really up to me. I’m just excited to go. It’s going to be a great time.”
Leading up to the draft, there's been considerable debate over whether Powers-Johnson merits a first-round selection. Traditionally, the center position isn't associated with first-round value, although this year's draft boasts a few prospects who could potentially break that trend. Nevertheless, there's a lingering possibility that no centers will hear their names called in the first round.
Despite the speculation, Powers-Johnson remains steadfast in his belief that he possesses first-round talent. However, he approaches the situation with humility, expressing his excitement for the draft process and embracing every aspect of it.
In his interviews, Powers-Johnson comes across as genuine and down-to-earth, unafraid to let his personality shine through. An interesting tidbit emerged during the most recent interview where he mentioned his willingness to sign autographs as "Turd Ferguson" because he finds it humorous.
Should Powers-Johnson find himself drafted by the Steelers, it's likely to be met with mixed reactions from fans. However, such a selection would address a significant need at the center position for the team.
Steelers Reportedly Working On Draft Day Trade With The Denver Broncos
On Tuesday, draft insider Tony Pauline broke the news that the Steelers were eyeing a potential trade with the Denver Broncos. The Broncos currently hold the 12th overall pick in the draft, while the Steelers possess the 20th pick. The reported objective behind this proposed trade is to facilitate the Steelers' acquisition of Quinyon Mitchell, a cornerback standout from Toledo.
The rumored trade scenario underscores the Steelers' proactive approach to bolstering their secondary. By exploring options to move up in the draft order, they aim to secure a player they perceive as integral to their defensive strategy. Mitchell's potential addition would address a key position need for the Steelers and inject fresh talent into their lineup.
As discussions surrounding potential trades intensify in the lead-up to the draft, fans eagerly await the outcome of negotiations between the Steelers and the Broncos. Should the trade materialize, it could significantly impact both teams' draft strategies and reshape the landscape of the upcoming NFL season.
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