MOBILE, Ala. —The Pittsburgh Steelers will be in Mobile, Alabama for a week of scouting some of the 2025 NFL Draft pool's top players. Senior Bowl Director Jim Nagy highlighted in his press conference the depth at the defensive line and running back positions–spots the Steelers certainly will be evaluating.
On Monday, Nagy sat down with the press for the Senior Bowl's opening press conference, as the week will bring media mania with plenty of player, NFL executives, and coaches interviews. For Nagy, the first spot to highlight would prove to be beneficial for the 2025 draft class: running back.
10/31/20 MFB Alabama vs MSUAlabama running back Najee Harris (22)Photo by Kent Gidley
"It's a good thing because the free agent class isn't great," Nagy started in discussing the draft's running back roster. "It's deep. It's really deep in the senior class … having an Ollie Gordon … Damian Martinez … We went to our limits, we [have] 12 running backs"
Nagy also highlighted that previously, getting enough running backs for the Senior Bowl was tough – with some of their participants not even getting sixth or seventh-round looks. Being able to fill their roster even before Georgia's star back Trevor Etienne joining is a big indication for this year's class.
What makes Nagy believe the running back position is returning to being in higher demand than in recent drafts? The NFC's number one seed's blueprint.
"I think everyone in the league is trying to get to that point where Detroit is where you have a true complementary backfield," Nagy said, highlighting the Lions' dynamic duo backfield. "There's guys out there … the depth of the class is going to go into the 5th, 6th round."
It's no mystery the Steelers will be in the draft market for a running back. As Nagy highlighted, the free agency class is underwhelming and Najee Harris will likely get a better payday away from Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cam Heyward during a game against the Baltimore Ravens on Jan. 11, 2024. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
However, the Steelers may look at another position in the earlier rounds. With Cameron Heyward getting older despite an All-Pro-worthy season, the Steelers likely will want to acquire his successor to pair with rising lineman Keeanu Benton .
"I love the group we brought," Nagy said when highlighting the defensive line.
The EDGE group is impressive this year at the Senior Bowl. Nagy also emphasized the interior talent that will be on display.
"When you have first-round pick against first-round pick … it's going to be a ton of fun." Nagy said on watching the interior linemen work this week.
The Steelers will be up close in evaluating these prospects as they always are. The scouting today leads to relationships that will extend beyond the draft year–even into future free agency.
Alan Saunders provided reporting from Mobile.
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