In a surprising turn of events, the Pittsburgh Steelers have made major trades that have significantly impacted their 2024 NFL Draft picks. The team recently traded wide receiver Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers and quarterback Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles, altering their draft order and shaping their offseason strategy.

The Steelers currently hold seven selections for next month's draft, starting with the 20th overall pick in the first round. This marks the first time since 2022 that Pittsburgh has had the 20th overall selection, which was used to pick quarterback Kenny Pickett. Prior to that, the team had not made a selection at this spot since 1985 when they picked DL Daryl Sims.

Their second-round pick sits at 51st overall, with DL Bob Barber being the last player selected by the Steelers at this position way back in 1975. The third round brings two picks for the Steelers, with the 84th and 98th overall selections. DL DeMarvin Leal, who was part of the 2022 draft class, was the last selection made by the Steelers at 84th overall. The 98th overall pick has not been held by the Steelers since 1966 when they selected RB Emerson Boozer, who went on to win a Super Bowl with the New York Jets.

The Steelers' fourth-round pick sits at 119th overall, marking a spot where no Steeler has ever been selected. Moving to the later rounds, the team has two sixth-round picks at 178th and 195th overall. The last time the Steelers made a selection at 178th overall was in 1998 when they picked FB Chris Fuamatu-Ma'afala. QB Jim Miller was also selected at this pick in 1994. As for the 195th overall pick, the Steelers struck gold in 2010 by selecting WR Antonio Brown, who became one of the best Day Three picks in NFL history.

Although these draft picks provide an insightful historical perspective, their significance in the success or failure of the 2024 class remains uncertain. Steelers' General Manager Omar Khan, known for his draft day maneuvers, may choose to make additional moves during the draft weekend. Nonetheless, the current draft order presents a critical opportunity for the Steelers to address roster gaps and build a strong team for the upcoming season.

With approximately five weeks to go until draft day, all eyes will be on the Pittsburgh Steelers as they navigate the ever-important process of selecting their future stars.