Before the start of training camp, the Pittsburgh Steelers received widespread praise for their 2024 Draft class. However, as the season progressed, the initial enthusiasm surrounding these picks seemed to wane, with many now questioning their effectiveness and overall value.
An example of this is NFL analyst Chris Trapasso of CBS Sports, who released his latest rankings for all the 2024 rookie classes after the season. Trapasso ranked the Steelers at No. 16 out of 32 teams, citing only center Zach Frazier as their biggest “hit” from that class.
"Frazier was magnificent for an otherwise shoddy Steelers offensive line in 2024. The rookie anchored the interior of Pittsburgh's front and was equally as steady in pass protection as he was paving lanes for the ground game."
Frazier was undoubtedly a revelation for the Steelers this past season. On 548 pass-block snaps, Frazier allowed only one sack and 12 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. He was named to the 2024 PFWA All-Rookie Team by the Pro Football Writers Association and received the “Joe Greene Great Performance Award” as the team’s top rookie performer.
Despite injuries affecting their 2024 draft class, the Steelers still had two other standout performers. Linebacker Payton Wilson recorded 78 tackles, three tackles for loss, an interception, two passes defended, and a fumble returned for a touchdown. Additionally, fourth-round pick Mason McCormick started 14 games, allowing only two sacks and 21 total pressures on 523 pass-blocking snaps.
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