Steelers make questionable pick in latest ESPN mock draft

COLUMBIA, SC - NOVEMBER 29: Clemson Tigers defensive end T.J. Parker (3) during a college football game between the Clemson Tigers and the South Carolina Gamecocks on November 29, 2025 at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia S.C. (Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

With the NFL Draft just over two weeks away, the day is getting closer and closer to finding out who the Steelers take in the first round. Peter Schrager of ESPN weighed in with his first mock draft, predicting the Steelers will take Clemson edge rusher T.J. Parker.

“Alabama’s Ty Simpson is still available, but I’m expecting Aaron Rodgers to return to Pittsburgh for another season,” Schrager writes. “On defense, the Steelers started getting younger along the line with the Derrick Harmon pick a year ago, and I wouldn’t think they’re done there. Parker has played a big role on the Clemson defense since his true freshman season, with 21.5 sacks over his three years there.”

To say it would be a shock to see the Steelers draft an edge rusher in the first round would be an understatement. They have four players at the position that all seem to be in their plans for 2026, and Nick Herbig is in line for an extension of his own to become the next top edge rusher in Pittsburgh.

Considering the other notable needs on the Steelers’ roster, this would be a let down of a pick.

Let us know what you think in the comments. Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!

• Steelers identified as top landing spot for elite guard
• Steelers’ Joey Porter Jr proclaims himself as top 5 cornerback
• Four Steelers that could be traded before 2026 season
• Steelers QB Will Howard doesn’t care about sixth-round pick label
• Former Steelers linebacker calls out Mike Tomlin for dysfunction