Steelers Trade Up, Down to Prioritize Offensive Versatility in Draft

Trading Down, and Up, for Offensive Pieces

Omar Khan’s activity on the draft weekend wasn’t about volume, but precision. As Kozora observes at Steelers Depot, the team executed three trades – moving up for receiver Germie Bernard, climbing for offensive guard Gennings Dunker, and then back down to secure fullback Riley Nowakowski. These weren’t blockbuster deals, but each appeared to be a calculated risk, maximizing value without overextending capital. The move for Bernard, in particular, stands out. Pittsburgh surrendered a later fourth-round pick and a seventh-rounder to move up six spots, a price justified by the anticipated decline in receiver talent after Bernard was selected. The team clearly prioritized securing a player they viewed as a strong scheme fit, considering the limited availability of other prospects.

The trades weren’t simply about acquiring talent; they were about controlling the draft board. Khan recouped a sixth-round pick by trading down in the fifth, demonstrating a willingness to be flexible and opportunistic. The Steelers initially targeted Michigan fullback Max Bredeson, but pivoted to Nowakowski after Bredeson was selected, and officials said they believed they acquired a comparable prospect. This adaptability reflects a strategic approach to the draft, differing from the more rigid strategies employed by previous administrations.

McCarthy’s Offensive Vision Takes Shape

The draft’s emphasis on offensive versatility aligns with Mike McCarthy’s stated philosophy. As Pittsburgh Magazine’s Prisuta notes, McCarthy indicated his intention to expand the offensive playbook after the draft concluded. This intention is reflected in the selections of Bernard, Kaden Wetjen, and Eli Heidenreich, all of whom possess the ability to align in multiple positions and create mismatches. Bernard, in particular, is a dynamic weapon who saw action as a runner, slot receiver, and passer at Alabama. Wetjen and Heidenreich bring similar multi-faceted skillsets to the team.

This represents a departure from previous approaches. Kozora’s analysis suggests previous Steelers coaching staffs may have been hesitant to fully utilize players with such diverse skillsets, preferring more specialized roles. Under McCarthy and offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio, however, there’s a greater expectation that these players will be integrated into a more imaginative and adaptable offensive scheme, maximizing their potential. The Steelers are drafting players with the intention of creating a variety of offensive options.

The Fullback Question: A Nod to the Past, a Glimpse to the Future?

The selection of Riley Nowakowski, a fullback, prompted discussion among analysts. In an increasingly pass-heavy league, the position is often viewed as less essential. However, the Steelers’ investment suggests a belief that a versatile fullback can still contribute to a modern offense. Nowakowski, as Kozora points out, may be a comparable prospect to Bredeson, the player Pittsburgh initially targeted.

The move could signal a willingness to incorporate more power-running elements into the offense, or simply a desire to add a lead blocker and short-yardage specialist. This represents a change from recent draft strategies and could indicate McCarthy’s intention to build an offense capable of controlling the line of scrimmage and dictating terms to opposing defenses.

Receiver Versatility: Beyond the Numbers

The addition of Germie Bernard addresses a clear need at receiver, but his value extends beyond simply filling a roster spot. Bernard’s ability to line up in multiple positions – running back, slot, wide – makes him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. This versatility is crucial in an offense that aims to create mismatches and exploit defensive weaknesses.

The Steelers also drafted Kaden Wetjen and Eli Heidenreich, both of whom possess similar multi-positional capabilities. This emphasis on versatility suggests a desire to move away from a traditional receiver corps and embrace a more fluid and unpredictable offensive approach. Researchers found the Steelers prioritized players who could contribute in a variety of ways, as evidenced by their selections. While Makai Lemon is a talented prospect, he did not demonstrate the same level of positional flexibility as Bernard.

Abstentions and What to Watch

The Steelers’ draft wasn’t without its risks. The team’s targeting of specific players – particularly in the later rounds – introduces a degree of uncertainty. The quarterback situation, as The New York Times reports, remains particularly fluid, with the future of both Aaron Rodgers and the development of Will Howard and Drew Allar still very much up in the air. Officials said McCarthy has expressed confidence in his ability to develop quarterbacks, but success is not guaranteed.

Looking ahead, the key will be how effectively the coaching staff integrates these new players into the offense. Can McCarthy and Angelichio unlock the full potential of Bernard, Wetjen, and Heidenreich? Will the offensive line, bolstered by the additions of Max Iheanachor and Gennings Dunker, provide adequate protection for the quarterback? And can the Steelers capitalize on the value they extracted through their shrewd trades? The answers to these questions will determine whether this draft class ultimately delivers on its promise. Watch closely how the team utilizes the versatility of its offensive skill players in training camp and preseason – that will be the clearest indicator of whether this draft was a success.