The Pittsburgh Steelers made significant progress this week by signing six of their seven 2025 NFL Draft picks to rookie contracts during the team’s rookie minicamp. The organization is showing a clear focus on building up its depth, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
Among those signed are:
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Kaleb Johnson (RB)
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Jack Sawyer (EDGE)
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Yahya Black (DT)
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Will Howard (QB)
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Carson Bruener (LB)
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Donte Kent (CB)
The only draft pick yet to sign is first-round selection Derrick Harmon, a standout defensive tackle expected to secure a fully guaranteed contract in line with standard rookie deals for first-rounders. Last year’s No. 21 pick, edge rusher Chop Robinson, signed a four-year, $16.213 million contract, which provides a likely benchmark for Harmon’s upcoming deal.
Key Rookie Contracts and Backgrounds
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Jack Sawyer, drafted in the fourth round, was a defensive leader for national champion Ohio State. Known for his elite athleticism and relentless motor, he recorded nine sacks and five tackles for loss his senior year. Sawyer famously returned a strip-sack 83 yards for a touchdown in the Cotton Bowl. He joins a deep Steelers edge group featuring T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Nick Herbig.
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Donte Kent, a blazing-fast cornerback from Central Michigan, was taken in the seventh round. He ran a 4.38-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and excelled in man coverage and special teams. His speed and versatility could earn him a role as a slot corner or return specialist.
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Carson Bruener, also a seventh-round pick, brings football bloodlines and production to Pittsburgh. The Washington linebacker, son of former Steeler Mark Bruener, totaled over 300 career tackles and earned first-team All-Big Ten honors in 2024. His instincts and special teams prowess make him a valuable depth piece.
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Will Howard, a quarterback from Ohio State by way of West Chester, PA, expressed his excitement about being drafted by his hometown team. “I had a little soft spot for Pittsburgh,” Howard shared. “I was hoping in my heart they’d pick me.” While initially expected to learn behind Mason Rudolph, the potential addition of a veteran like Aaron Rodgers could further accelerate his development.
Undrafted Free Agents and Additional Moves
In addition to draft signings, the Steelers inked 18 undrafted free agents, including safety Sebastian Castro and wide receiver Roc Taylor, both of whom are seen as strong candidates to make the final 53-man roster. Pittsburgh has a history of finding hidden gems among UDFAs, particularly in the secondary and special teams units.
Looking Ahead
With rookie contracts nearly complete and minicamp in full swing, the Steelers are laying the foundation for the 2025 season. Their emphasis on defensive talent, versatility, and developmental upside reflects a focused effort by head coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan to reload the roster with young, hungry contributors.
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