Steelers Mock Draft Tracker: Experts Project O-Line Focus at 20

National Mock Draft Consensus Solidifies Around Steelers' O-Line

The signal is unmistakable. A survey of the latest mock drafts from major national outlets reveals a powerful trend: the Pittsburgh Steelers are overwhelmingly projected to address their offensive line with the 20th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. This consensus marks a significant shift from earlier speculation that often linked Pittsburgh to cornerback or wide receiver prospects.

Analysis of over 25 mock drafts published in the last week from platforms including ESPN, NFL Network, The Athletic, and CBS Sports shows that approximately 75% predict an offensive lineman for the Steelers' first-round selection. This expert alignment is driven by Pittsburgh's clear roster deficiencies and the high concentration of blue-chip offensive line talent available in the late first round.

Specific Prospect Links: Mims, Fautanu, and Powers-Johnson

Three names dominate the conversation for the Steelers at pick 20. Georgia offensive tackle Amarius Mims is a frequent projection, with analysts like ESPN's Matt Miller citing his elite physical tools and 6'8", 340-pound frame as a perfect fit for new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith's outside-zone run scheme. Mims started only 8 games for the Bulldogs, making him a high-ceiling, developmental tackle prospect.

The other primary tackle link is Washington's Troy Fautanu, the 2023 Morris Trophy winner as the Pac-12's best offensive lineman. Fautanu, who started 28 games at left tackle for the Huskies, is praised for his athleticism and nasty demeanor. NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah has mocked Fautanu to Pittsburgh, noting his potential to play tackle or immediately upgrade a guard position. The third major prospect is Oregon center Jackson Powers-Johnson, the 2023 Rimington Trophy winner. With center being Pittsburgh's most glaring need after releasing Mason Cole, Powers-Johnson is seen as a Day 1 starter and a culture-setter.

Why the Offensive Line is the Logical Priority

The Steelers' 2023 offensive line allowed 50 sacks, the fifth-highest total in the NFL, and the running game averaged just 3.9 yards per carry, ranking 28th. The front office, led by General Manager Omar Khan, has publicly acknowledged the need for improvement. While they signed guard Isaac Seumalo last offseason and have 2023 first-round pick Broderick Jones at tackle, the interior remains a work in progress, and the team lacks a long-term answer at center.

Furthermore, the investment in quarterback Kenny Pickett, the 20th overall pick in 2022, and the trade for Justin Fields necessitates better protection. Head Coach Mike Tomlin emphasized at the NFL Combine that "we have to be better up front." This organizational priority, combined with the depth of offensive line talent projected in the 20-40 pick range, makes the position the most logical and frequently predicted selection for Pittsburgh.

What to Watch Next: Pro Days and Pre-Draft Visits

The mock draft trend will be tested against concrete evaluation events in the coming weeks. The Steelers' scouting department will be closely monitoring the pro days of the top offensive line prospects, particularly the workouts of Mims and Fautanu, who did not participate in all drills at the NFL Combine. Pittsburgh holds 30 pre-draft visits, and the list of linemen invited to the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex will be a major indicator of their true interest.

Also watch for potential trade scenarios. If a top prospect like tackle JC Latham (Alabama) or tackle Olumuyiwa Fashanu (Penn State) slides closer to pick 20, the Steelers could consider moving up a few spots. Conversely, if the top linemen are off the board, don't be shocked if Pittsburgh pivots to a cornerback like Toledo's Quinyon Mitchell or trades back to accumulate more picks. The current consensus is strong, but the draft board is fluid.

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