The 2024 NFL Draft saw the AFC North teams addressing key needs with varying success. The Steelers and Ravens had standout drafts, focusing on the trenches and secondary, respectively. Cincinnati bolstered its roster with depth, while Cleveland, with fewer picks, made strategic selections. The Steelers’ pick of Troy Fautanu and the Ravens’ addition of Nate Wiggins were highlights. Baltimore and Pittsburgh were the most active, while Cincinnati quietly improved. The draft’s surprise was Cleveland’s minimal activity due to previous trades.
Troy Fautanu, T, Washington
Fautanu redshirted in 2019 and appeared in four games in 2020. By 2021, he played in nine games, starting three. His breakout came in 2022, starting all 13 games and earning Pac-12 Offensive Lineman of the Week honors. In 2023, Fautanu won the Morris Trophy and Joe Moore Award, declaring for the 2024 NFL draft afterward.
Troy Fautanu’s versatility and athleticism make him a solid fit for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who need interior line depth. With experience at both tackle and guard, he brings powerful run-blocking skills that suit the Steelers’ offensive scheme. Despite needing refinement in pass protection, his potential to contribute immediately could bolster their line and protect the quarterback effectively. Overall, Fautanu addresses critical needs for the Steelers and offers long-term potential in their offensive strategy.
Troy Fautanu brings elite left tackle skills despite concerns over his height. Projected as Pittsburgh’s future left tackle, he offers immediate impact at guard, potentially upgrading the team significantly. Fantasy managers should monitor his development, as he could become a cornerstone of the Steelers’ offensive line, enhancing both passing and running game prospects.
Troy Fautanu’s path to success in the NFL hinges on refining his pass protection technique, focusing on maintaining balance and positioning against experienced pass rushers. His strong athleticism and aggressive demeanor in run-blocking provide a solid foundation while adapting his high-energy style to ensure consistency will be crucial for long-term success. As he transitions to the interior line, leveraging his versatility and quickness will be key to making an immediate impact and potentially reaching Pro Bowl level within his rookie contract.
According to Dane Brugler, Fautanu’s athleticism and versatility make him a top-tier prospect with potential at multiple positions, despite being initially seen as an undersized guard out of Nevada. Coaches and analysts, including Nick Baumgardner and Mike DeFabo, emphasize Fautanu’s ability to excel at both guard and tackle, citing his dynamic play style and impressive physical attributes, such as his 34 1/2-inch arms and 82-inch wingspan.
Roman Wilson, WR, Michigan
Wilson committed to the University of Michigan in July 2019. He made an impact from his freshman year with 9 catches, 122 yards, and a touchdown. By his junior season, he totaled 25 receptions for 376 yards and 4 touchdowns, showcasing versatility with 2 rushing touchdowns. In his senior year, Wilson played a pivotal role in Michigan’s national championship, highlighted by 48 catches, 789 yards, and 12 touchdowns, including a crucial score in the Rose Bowl.
Roman Wilson, drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, brings explosive speed and deep threat capability. With 107 receptions, 1,707 yards, and 20 touchdowns in college, Wilson aims to bolster the Steelers’ receiving corps alongside George Pickens. His quick acceleration and ability to stretch the field complement Pittsburgh’s offensive needs post-Diontae Johnson trade, potentially making an immediate impact in both slot and outside roles.
Roman Wilson faces stiff competition as the Steelers’ likely slot receiver, alongside George Pickens, Van Jefferson, and Quez Watkins. Arthur Smith’s run-heavy approach could restrict his fantasy output despite potential as WR2. In dynasty, Wilson’s draft value ranges from late second to third round due to uncertain role and limited passing opportunities. With Russell Wilson or Justin Fields, he might reach WR4 status with glimpses of WR3 potential, leveraging his ability to find open spaces for fantasy appeal.
Roman Wilson’s path to success in the NFL hinges on leveraging his explosive speed and acceleration to stretch defenses, filling a critical role opposite George Pickens in Pittsburgh’s receiving corps. He must refine route running for consistent separation and capitalize on his natural catching ability to contribute immediately. Wilson’s potential to impact games with big plays and contested catches presents a clear roadmap for becoming a key starter, addressing the Steelers’ need for dynamic playmakers post-Diontae Johnson trade.
Roman Wilson, the Steelers’ third-round pick from Michigan, received varied grades from experts. Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz of USA Today gave him an A-, highlighting Wilson’s speed and potential as a downfield threat. Scott Dochterman from The Athletic awarded an A, praising Wilson’s route running and competitiveness. Matt Verderame at Sports Illustrated also gave an A-, noting Wilson’s reliability and fit with the Steelers’ plans.
Comparative Analysis
The Steelers’ 2024 draft focused heavily on bolstering the offensive line, selecting T Troy Fautanu (1st round), C Zach Frazier (2nd round), and G Mason McCormick (4th round). They also added WR Roman Wilson (3rd round) to enhance their receiving corps after trading Diontae Johnson. This class shows a strong commitment to protecting their quarterback and improving the run game. Compared to previous years, the 2024 draft lacks depth at key fantasy positions like QB, RB, and TE but strengthens the O-line significantly.
Conclusion
The Steelers’ 2024 draft includes potential immediate stars T Troy Fautanu and C Zach Frazier, expected to start right away. WR Roman Wilson, a versatile threat and blocker, is a promising sleeper pick. G Mason McCormick offers long-term potential, adding depth to the offensive line. This draft class emphasizes building a strong, young offensive front, complementing last year’s first-rounder, Broderick Jones.