New York Jets lead the top 3 winners of 2022 NFL Draft Day 1
3. Pittsburgh Steelers draft their next franchise quarterback
Finding a replacement for Ben Roethlisberger rented room in the minds of coaches and owners. Leadership on and off the field helped the Steelers become a dynasty.
The franchise’s decision to acquire Mitch Trubisky in the off-season was not enough for analysts to count Pittsburgh out of the quarterback bidding.
With hopes of landing Malik Willis or Kenny Pickett with the 20th pick, the Steelers approached the draft calmly.
When it came time for the Steelers to make their selection, both Pickett and Willis were still on the draft board. The final decision to draft Kenny Pickett excited the city of Pittsburgh.
Pickett’s collegiate career makes gave his NFL home more meaning. His five-year run as a Pittsburgh Panther has given fans a chance to see who could be taking over the reins.
Friday night’s draft helped a handful of teams prepare for the 2022 season. The Giants, Jets, and Steelers finished the evening in a better position than some of their opponents. Although other teams landed high draft prospects, these three teams landed exactly what they needed with ease.
As analysts and owners prepare themselves for rounds two and three, fans at home will remain dialed in.