Steelers Heighten Interest in Two players on Their NFL Draft Board
The Pittsburgh Steelers surprisingly parted ways with starting center Mason Cole ahead of the NFL Combine, suggesting a strategic shift. Despite the uncertainty of the free agency market and the NFL Draft, they’ve freed up $4.75 million in cap space. With approximately $12.25 million available, they’re poised to pursue both re-signings and new talent acquisitions. Potential targets include veteran Brian Allen in free agency, while the move likely elevates two rookie center prospects on their draft board.
Oregon standout Jackson Powers-Johnson and West Virginia prospect Zach Frazier have caught the Steelers’ eye, with Pittsburgh showing significant interest in both. Powers-Johnson, a Rimington Trophy winner and unanimous All-American, and Frazier, touted as a “day one starter” by NFL Draft expert Daniel Jeremiah, offer compelling options.
Heading into the NFL Combine, the Steelers are intensifying their focus on center prospects, signaling a strong commitment to bolstering their offensive line. While they also have needs at right tackle, cornerback, safety, wide receiver, inside linebacker, and defensive line, the draft and free agency provide avenues for addressing these concerns, affording the team flexibility.
With memories of the dominant Maurkice Pouncey era lingering, the Steelers are eager to restore stability at the center position. This draft presents an opportunity to recapture that reliability, with Powers-Johnson and Frazier emerging as potential solutions.
