The wait is finally over. After months of speculation and draft talk, the 2025 NFL Draft is here—and soon we’ll see what choices the Pittsburgh Steelers will actually have with the 21st overall pick.
With time running out, NFL analysts are finalizing their mock drafts. One of the more surprising ones came from Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, who released his lone first-round mock the day before the draft. His pick for the Steelers? Colston Loveland, the tight end from Michigan—a name that likely hasn’t been linked to Pittsburgh in any previous mocks.
This projection is certainly unexpected, especially with top-tier prospects like Oregon defensive lineman Derrick Harmon and Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders still available at No. 21 in Florio’s mock. While Loveland is a highly talented player and could certainly elevate the Steelers’ offense, the idea of Pittsburgh going this route tonight seems far-fetched.
Why the Steelers Are Unlikely to Draft Loveland
Loveland ranks as my 8th overall prospect in the 2025 draft class. With his nearly 6’6″ frame, impressive catch radius, and receiver-like movement skills, he has all the tools to become a premier tight end at the next level. If the Steelers were to land him at No. 21, it would be a massive value steal.
However, there’s been no indication that the Steelers are considering him. The team already has a solid tight end group featuring Pat Freiermuth, who received a major contract last year, and Darnell Washington, an ideal fit for the traditional in-line role. While they could find ways to use Loveland, drafting him doesn’t line up with team needs or their pre-draft activity.
Notably, the Steelers haven’t been linked to Loveland in any reported meetings or visits, and they didn’t bring in a single tight end for a top-30 pre-draft visit.
While I’m a big believer in drafting the best player available, and Loveland could certainly become a top-five receiving tight end, it’s hard to see Florio’s projection as anything other than a long shot. If Loveland even makes it to pick 21, it’s unlikely Pittsburgh will be the team to call his name. Florio seems out of sync with what the Steelers are actually planning.
