Steelers Aren’t Likely To Draft A Center In Rounds 2 Or 3: 'Really Like Nate Herbig'

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a strategic move by selecting Troy Fautanu, the offensive tackle from Washington, with their 20th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Now, their focus shifts to addressing their remaining needs as the draft progresses.

As the action continues on Friday with rounds two and three, the Steelers have opportunities to further bolster their roster. With one pick in the second round at 51 and two picks in the third round, they have some flexibility.

Many pundits and fans identify center as the team's most pressing need, with round two at 51 seen as the prime opportunity to secure a capable starter. The hope is to land prospects like Zach Frazier or Jackson Powers-Johnson, although there's a chance they may have already been drafted by that point.

However, Steelers insider Mark Kaboly, speaking on 93.7 The Fan ahead of the draft, hinted that the team is unlikely to address the center position in rounds two or three. Kaboly was asked if the Steelers take a center in round two.

“I don’t think so, man. We are just hammering this center. It seems like the only ones who care about the center are us, as in everybody except within the organization. It doesn’t seem like they are too concerned about that position at all.”

Kaboly disclosed that the Steelers may be content with Nate Herbig's role moving forward. Specifically moving Herbig from guard to center. While Herbig may not instill much confidence among Steelers fans, Kaboly believes the team has a strategy in place.

“They must have something in mind or they must really like Nate Herbig. I think they will go wide receiver and I wouldn’t be shocked if you leave today and they don’t have a center even if Jackson Powers-Johnson or Zach Frazier is there at 51.”

Kaboly believed it would be tremendous for the Steelers to select one of the centers, Frazier or Powers-Johnson at 51 if they are not picked yet. However, he doesn’t think it will happen. He believes they are fully going wide receiver on Friday.

Steelers Likely To Select A Wide Receiver On Day 2 Of NFL Draft

Per Kaboly's insights, it seems the Steelers are poised to address their next priority in round two of the draft. Kaboly predicts their focus will shift to acquiring a wide receiver, not a center. The board will have a lot of talent at the wide receiver position when the Steelers are on the clock. Many believe Keon Coleman could be in play for the Steelers here. As well as many other talented wide receivers. 

Although they possess two picks in round three, attempting to secure a center in those slots might prove challenging, as prospects like Frazier and Powers-Johnson are likely to have been drafted by then. Following the wide receiver selection, Kaboly suggests cornerback could be the next area of interest for the Steelers. While many fans are eager to see a center drafted in round two, it appears the team may opt for a different direction.