We’re just a few short weeks away from the NFL Draft, and top analysts across the league are rolling out final mocks. According to a recent mock draft from Nate Tice and Charles McDonald of Yahoo Sports, the Steelers sit at pick No. 21 and land one of the most talented receivers in the class in Jordyn Tyson out of Arizona State.
“This could wind up being one of the steals of the draft,” McDonald writes. “Tyson has immense talent and would likely find himself going a good deal higher than this if it weren’t
for a slew of injuries that plagued his college career. Tyson and DK Metcalf would be a strong, physical duo for … whoever ends up being the quarterback of this team for the long term.”
In my opinion, Tyson’s placement at that spot has less to do with talent and more to do with uncertainty. Durability concerns have followed him throughout the pre-draft process, as teams continue to evaluate his medicals and long-term availability. He’s also been limited in workouts, which has only added to the hesitation for some front offices. In a class loaded with receiver depth, even small question marks can push a player down the board.
But that slide could ultimately work in Pittsburgh’s favor.
When healthy, Tyson has shown clear first-round ability — a polished route runner with burst off the line and the ability to create separation at all three levels. His playmaking upside and natural feel for the position make him one of the more dynamic weapons in the class. For teams willing to bet on the talent over the risk, he represents exactly the kind of high-upside value that can swing a draft.
For the Steelers, it presents an interesting decision point. There’s been plenty of speculation that Pittsburgh could look to trade up to secure a top-tier wideout, especially in a year where offensive weapons are at a premium. But if the board falls in their favor, staying put at No. 21 and still landing a player of Tyson’s caliber could feel like a draft-day home run.
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