Insider believes Steelers could make surprising NFL Draft decision

Penn State CB Joey Porter Jr. has been linked to the Steelers for some time. However, NFL insider Jeremy Fowler doesn't necessarily believe he will be the pick at No. 17 in the 2023 NFL Draft.

"I don't think that's a priority for them," Fowler said on Pittsburgh's 93.7 The Fan.

It is somewhat surprising given his family ties to the organization. His father, Joey Porter, played linebacker for the Steelers for eight seasons (1999-2006), helping the team win Super Bowl XL.

However, it does make sense if Pittsburgh passes on a cornerback in the first round. This year's cornerback class is one of the most talented groups in recent memory.

ESPN analyst Louis Riddick even tweeted, "The CB depth in this draft is as good as I have ever seen. Some very legit players that are going to be drafted beyond day 1."

With three day two picks (Nos. 32, 49 and 80), the Steelers should still be able to find a talented cornerback on Friday to add to their secondary.

Pro Football Focus has 14 corners ranked in its top 80 players on its big board.

Of course, Pittsburgh would only have to make the difficult decision to pass on Porter Jr. if he's still available at No. 17, which feels unlikely. But if he somehow is, don't be surprised if that's how night one plays out.