The Pittsburgh Steelers have long prided themselves on building through the NFL Draft – a philosophy initially ingrained during the Chuck Noll era – that emphasizes scouting and developing talent across all rounds rather than banking solely on first-round “home runs.” General managers earn their keep by finding value on Day 2 and beyond, and few rounds have been as fruitful for Pittsburgh as the second.
Under former GM Kevin Colbert and continuing with Omar Khan, the Steelers have consistently unearthed “studs” in the second round – players who become starters, impact contributors, or even stars – while occasionally hitting on duds that serve as reminders that no draft is foolproof. This track record has helped the team live and die by the draft, often unearthing first-round caliber talent later.
We look at notable second-round selections from recent years, including standout performers from the 2010s and the strong run from 2021 onward, with impacts updated to reflect career arcs as of early 2026).
Le’Veon Bell
(2013, No. 48 overall, RB, Michigan State) – A controversial figure after his holdout and departure to the Jets, but undeniably one of the greatest second-round steals in franchise history. Bell redefined the running back position with his patient, dual-threat style. In five seasons with Pittsburgh, he amassed 5,336 rushing yards, 2,660 receiving yards and 42 total touchdowns, including back-to-back postseason single-game rushing records. He remains a benchmark for explosive playmaking.
Marcus Gilbert
(2011, No. 63 overall, OT, Florida) –
A rock at right tackle for much of his career, Gilbert was one of the league’s top right tackles during his prime. He started 75 of 76 games before injuries derailed later years (missing 20 in 2017-18). Traded to Arizona where he never played, but his presence helped anchor elite offensive lines in Pittsburgh’s heyday.
Jason Worilds
(2010, No. 52 overall, DE/OLB, Virginia Tech) – A developmental edge rusher who flashed star potential. He stepped up as a starter amid LaMarr Woodley‘s injuries, recording 8 sacks in 2013 and 7.5 in 2014. With 25.5 career sacks over five seasons, he surprised many by retiring abruptly in 2015 instead of cashing in on a big free-agent deal.
Stephon Tuitt
(2014, No. 46 overall, DE, Notre Dame) –
A pre-draft first-round grade who slid to Day 2, Tuitt became a steal. Anchoring the defensive line opposite Cam Heyward, he posted 203 tackles and 23.5 sacks as a full-time starter from 2015 onward. Injuries, including a shortened 2019, limited a potential Pro Bowl trajectory, but he was a key piece of stout defenses.
JuJu Smith-Schuster
(2017, No. 62 overall, WR, USC)
Initially labeled a luxury pick, Smith-Schuster proved doubters wrong with explosive early production: 58 receptions for 917 yards and 7 TDs as a rookie (second on the team), followed by Pro Bowl honors and 1,426 yards in a full season with Ben Roethlisberger. He added personality with celebrations and big hits (like on Vontaze Burfict), making Martavis Bryant expendable. Injuries and a down year followed, but his impact was undeniable.
More recently, the trend of second-round success has continued strongly
Pat Freiermuth
(2021, No. 55 overall, TE, Penn State) -Freiermuth has become one of the NFL’s most dependable tight ends, excelling as a receiver and blocker. A consistent threat in the passing game, he has anchored the position with production and toughness.
George Pickens
(2022, No. 52 overall, WR, Georgia) –
Pickens developed into a high-upside star with elite contested-catch skills and deep speed. Despite some inconsistency, he was a key offensive weapon and focal point. On-and-off field problems with maturity, penalties, and increasing lapses in effort led to his frustrations boiling over and his departure to the Dallas Cowboys.
Joey Porter Jr.
(2023, No. 32 overall, CB, Penn State) –
The son of Steelers legend Joey Porter has quickly become a shutdown corner with physical coverage and growth. He has bolstered a secondary that looks to be more improved in 2026 with recent free agency signings.
Keeanu Benton
(2023, No. 49 overall, IDL, Wisconsin) –
Benton has provided reliable interior run defense and pass-rush flashes, developing into a solid piece on the defensive front. He has the competitive nature that could see his performance jump in 2026 with young additions and veteran presence beside him under new coaching.
Zach Frazier
(2024, No. 51 overall, C, West Virginia) –
A tough, local product with high football IQ, Frazier has solidified the interior offensive line as a dependable starter addressing a long-term need. He continues to make strides at the position, his trajectory going up. His third season could be a breakout opportunity.
The Steelers did not have a second-round pick in 2025 after trading it to the Seattle Seahawks in the deal for wide receiver D.K. Metcalf (March 2025), which also involved Metcalf signing a major extension. That move reflected a win-now approach, but the prior second-round hits underscore the organization’s enduring draft strength.
From Bell and Tuitt to Freiermuth, and Porter Jr., Pittsburgh’s second-round track record -more studs than duds -has been a cornerstone of roster building and sustained competitiveness. As the team continues its draft-centric philosophy, Day 2 remains a prime area for finding hidden gems.
With the 2026 NFL Draft being held in Pittsburgh, fans will get the opportunity to see what new head coach Mike McCarthy and Khan do in the second round – and determine if a gem falls into the Steelers’ clutches.