With the free agency frenzy calming and the 2026 NFL Draft on the horizon, a look at selections over the last decade (since 2015) in Pittsburgh Steelers history felt appropriate.
Based on official NFL statistics (e.g., career Approximate Value from Pro Football Reference, Pro Bowl/All-Pro selections, sacks, other production metrics), PFF rankings and peak/overall grades (emphasizing elite pass-rush, coverage, and offensive impact), NFL awards (e.g., Defensive Player of the Year), and franchise impact/longevity, we focused strictly on players drafted by the Steelers in 2015 through 2025.
The examination was extensive – the Top 5 list prioritizing sustained excellence – but the results may come as a surprise.
The top 5 “dawgs”
Outside linebacker/EDGE T.J. Watt was the clear standout due to his record-breaking production, multiple DPOY-level seasons, and franchise-altering status.
Drafted by Pittsburgh in 2017 (1st round, 30th overall), Watt is the
Steelers’ all-time sack leader (ongoing, already over 100 career), has multiple First-Team All-Pro selections, was 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, and has earned consistent Pro Bowl nods. Elite PFF grades (frequent 90+ peaks in pass-rush/win rate). Widely regarded as one of the best defensive players in the NFL and the franchise’s top modern draft hit – a transformative edge rusher with generational impact.
2. Najee Harris
(RB, 2021, 1st round, 24th overall)
Harris became an immediate workhorse with 1,000+ rushing seasons early and showcased strong receiving production as a dual-threat back. His high career AV among recent picks, solid PFF rushing/receiving grades in volume-heavy role gave him an edge on this list. Harris was a key offensive piece during transition years; a durable starter with franchise-leading touches in his prime.
3. Pat Freiermuth
(TE, 2021, 2nd round, 55th overall)
The reliable pass-catching tight end with 700+ yard seasons, strong blocking grades on PFF, and consistent red-zone targets took the next spot. Freiermuth had Pro Bowl-level production in recent years. He has been a valuable contributor to the passing attack and one of the better mid-round values post-2015. Despite a down year in 2025, new coaching may give new life to the tight end’s legacy in Pittsburgh.
4. George Pickens
(WR, 2022, 2nd round, 52nd overall)
Pickens, the explosive deep threat receiver with high-upside athleticism, big-play ability (20+ yard receptions leader in class), and improving route-running earned him a spot anongst the top five in this list. Strong PFF receiving grades in targeted seasons; emerged as a WR1 with significant franchise value in the modern offense.
5. Alex Highsmith
(EDGE, 2020, 3rd round, 102nd overall)
Highsmith, a solid complementary pass rusher with double-digit sacks in peak years, good run defense, and high PFF pass-rush grades proved his worth in becoming the long-term starter alongside Watt. Highsmith has provided quality depth and production on the edge. He has shown strong value for a Day 2 pick.
Close to the top
- Diontae Johnson (WR, 2019, 3rd round): High-volume receiver with route precision before trade.
- James Conner (RB, 2017, 3rd round): Productive early, but shorter Steelers tenure.
- Zach Frazier (C, 2024, 2nd round): Successfully anchoring the offensive line and showing improvement.
Determining the methodology
Post-2015 NFL drafts for the Steelers leaned defensive-heavy (Watt/Highsmith as standouts), with offensive value from 2021–2023 classes. AV favored volume/longevity (Harris/Freiermuth), while PFF elevated peaks (Watt/Pickens).
The 2017 class (led by Watt) appears to be the best recent class in the current decade, followed by 2021. The Steelers’ recent drafts emphasize focus on the trenches and playmakers, setting up future success.
Mike McCarthy and Omar Khan will set up their big board and staff for an April to remember when the 2026 NFL Draft kicks off in Pittsburgh.