The Pittsburgh Steelers traded Joey Porter Jr. away to the Dallas Cowboys, ending months-long contract drama but leaving the team with a massive need at cornerback. In our latest 2027 NFL mock draft update, the Steelers attempted to replace Porter with a standout cornerback from the SEC.
From a 6-foot-4 cornerback to a surprise quarterback pick to close out their Day 2 draft picks, here's a look at the Steelers' updated 2027 mock draft.
First round: CB Kelley Jones, Mississippi State
With Porter gone, the Steelers didn't hesitate to replace him with their first-round draft choice in Kelley Jones. A massive 6-foot-4, 205-pound cornerback with lightning-fast speed, Jones offers the Steelers versatility in both man and zone coverage. While he's not a finished product, Jones would give the Steelers their best
shot at bouncing back following the Porter trade.
Second round: S Ty Benefield, LSU
Safety is another position that has reared its ugly head early for the Steelers, and the team would be wise to use one of their first picks to address the long-term stability of the position. Enter Benefield, a 6-foot-3 defensive back with plenty of starting experience at a variety of positions. It's this versatility that makes him so appealing, capable of playing in the box, in two-high, single-high, and even in the slot. Benefield would give the Steelers a Day 1 contributor in sub-packages and special teams while also offering the team a potential long-term game-changer at the safety position.
Third round: DL Quincy Rhodes Jr., Arkansas
Pittsburgh goes defense in three consecutive picks here, as their defensive line depth is looking more concerning as the season progresses. Keeanu Benton has taken a huge step backwards in Year 4, veteran Cameron Heyward is nearing retirement, Derrick Harmon has dealt with major injuries over the past two years, and we haven't seen enough out of Yahya Black to believe he could become a long-term starter. Drafting the versatile, 6-foot-6 Quincy Rhodes Jr. in Round 3 would offer the Steelers a promising backup plan with starting upside.
Third round (Broderick Jones trade): Brendan Sorsby, Cincinnati
I know what you might be thinking: why go quarterback with Will Howard and Drew Allar already on the roster? Well, the Steelers need to keep swinging until one of their young quarterbacks establishes himself as the undoubted future of the team. At worst, Sorsby would be a decent backup for years to come. At best, he may push and even surpass Howard and Allar for the starting job later down the road.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers find Joey Porter Jr.'s replacement, pick surprise QB in new 2027 mock draft
