Steelers Could Make A Shocking Selection In Round 1 To Improve Their Offensive Line

The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing significant gaps to address in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. It's widely acknowledged that they are likely to prioritize selecting a center, cornerback, and wide receiver early on. Recent reports indicate a leaning away from offensive tackle in the initial rounds, favoring the selection of a center instead. 

NFL Network analyst Lance Zierlein advocates for the Steelers to use their first-round pick on Taliese Fuaga, an offensive tackle hailing from Oregon State. Zierlein articulates his rationale behind this choice for the Steelers' first overall pick in the 2024 draft.

"Yeah, we're moving the right tackle over to the left side. We've got bookends now at offensive tackle. Of course, they're still trying to figure out if their quarterback situation's, the right situation. But one thing they do need is a tackle. And I think Fuaga for me is the most technically sound pass protector in this draft on the offensive line. He can run block as well. He is a very, very technically sound player who can come in and start right away.”

The notion of the Steelers prioritizing an offensive tackle over a center would come as quite a surprise. Currently, they lack a starting center on their roster whom they can wholeheartedly rely on. While the draft offers a pool of talented centers who could potentially step in and make an immediate impact, waiting beyond the first two rounds entails a considerable risk of missing out on a top prospect. Opting for a tackle first and then addressing the center position would logically align, but the urgent need for a rookie wide receiver capable of immediate productivity remains.

Regardless of their choice, the Steelers face the challenge of navigating the draft while balancing the various gaps in their roster, a task exacerbated by the pressure to rectify deficiencies left unaddressed in free agency.

Selecting Fuaga could align with the strategy employed when they drafted Broderick Jones 14th overall in the 2023 draft. Bringing Fuaga on board would allow the Steelers to relocate Jones to his natural position at left tackle, where he can thrive. Despite playing out of position in 2023, Jones proved to be a valuable addition to the offensive line, boasting significant potential. Bolstering the trenches with another talented player would be a commendable move, but it hinges on the Steelers' willingness to assume the risk associated with potentially postponing the acquisition of a center.

Steelers Have Shown Interest In Taliese Fuaga

Steelers' offensive line coach Pat Meyer closely observed Fuaga's performance during the Beavers' Pro Day, indicating a keen interest in the talented offensive tackle who showcased his skills in college. Additionally, Fuaga was invited for a pre-draft visit by the Steelers, further underscoring their interest in him.

According to ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr, Fuaga ranks as the fourth-best offensive tackle in the draft. Securing him would likely require the Steelers to use their first-round pick. While Fuaga presents an enticing prospect and could address a pressing need for the Steelers, it may not fulfill their most critical requirement. The Steelers' draft strategy and positional selections will be intriguing to observe.

Fuaga's scouting report highlights his tenacious mentality and ability to dominate opponents, qualities that make him a coveted asset for any NFL team in the trenches. Pro Football Focus echoes these sentiments in their scouting report, aligning with Zierlein's assessment.

"Ultimately, Fuaga has the tape of a starting NFL offensive lineman, whether that is at tackle or guard. He brings the powerful mentality needed to stand out in the trenches. He has the adequate length and foot speed, good offensive line IQ and elite strength to succeed at tackle and get a shot there as a first-round pick."

Drafting Fuaga would indeed come as a surprising, yet potentially beneficial move for the Steelers, albeit in a different manner. It could also shed light on the future of Dan Moore Jr. and his tenure in Pittsburgh, as the team's draft decisions will likely influence his role moving forward.