Fantasy impact of Steelers 2021 NFL Draft selections

The Pittsburgh Steelers started off last season as one of the best teams in the league with a record of 11-0. And then proceeded to go 1-4 in their last five games heading into the NFL playoffs. Despite falling off towards the end of the regular season, Pittsburgh still won the AFC North and hosted a Super Wild card Weekend playoff game.

But their stay in the playoffs did not last long as they lost 48-37 to the Cleveland Browns. The Steelers look to retool in the draft with veteran quarterback Ben Roethlisberger under center for one more season. The Steelers have the 24th overall selection, which they could use on the offensive line, defense, or at running back. Between those three options, running back is the top priority with James Conner heading to the Arizona Cardinals.

Pittsburgh Steelers 2021 Draft selections

No. 24: Najee Harris, RB
No. 55: Pat Freiermuth, TE
No. 87: Kendrick Green, G
No. 128: Dan Moore Jr., OT
No. 140: Buddy Johnson, LB
No. 156: Isaiahh Loudermilk, DT
No. 216: Quincy Roche, LB
No. 245: Tre Norwood, S
No. 254: Pressley Harvin III, P

Fantasy football impact

The Steelers needed a running back, and they satisfied that need with former Alabama Crimson Tide running back Najee Harris with their first round pick. Unlike many positions, running backs can make a big fantasy impact early on, and he has a good shot at putting together solid production right away. Harris can play on all three downs, and fantasy owners should be excited about his potential on Day 1. This is obviously a big hit to Steelers backs Benny Snell Jr. and Anthony McFarland Jr. from a fantasy perspective.

The Steelers haven’t been able to get a consistent tight end since Heath Miller and Pat Freiermuth could be exactly that. He’s a strong blocker and efficient receiver. He’s not Kyle Pitts, as his speed is suspect and he’s not a smooth route runner. But he gets the job done. His fantasy prospects are likely to be as a touchdown scorer and not in his rookie year.