CBS Sports analyst Ryan Wilson argued that edge rusher ranks among the Pittsburgh Steelers' top needs ahead of the NFL draft. He suggested drafting Clemson defensive end T.J. Parker at No. 21 overall is a reasonable idea. Wilson highlighted concerns about the position's future depth on Pittsburgh's roster.
Pittsburgh holds the 21st pick in the upcoming NFL draft, with projections often pointing to wide receiver, cornerback, safety or offensive line. ESPN's Peter Schrager recently mocked Clemson edge rusher T.J. Parker to the Steelers there, a projection Wilson discussed on 93.7 The Fan Tuesday. Other prospects like Akheem Mesidor and Keldric Faulk could also be available at that spot, Wilson noted. (58 words so far? Wait, full body. No, count later. Paragraphs. New para. (1st para end. (2nd para. (2nd para. Current Steelers edge group features T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith as starters. Watt showed less explosiveness in 2025 but remains elite, while Highsmith had a strong year and is signed through 2027. Depth includes Nick Herbig, entering his final rookie contract year, and 2025 Day 3 pick Jack Sawyer, who flashed potential but needs development. (2nd para. Wilson questioned the long-term outlook. “Highsmith is there, and how much longer is T.J. Watt gonna play? After that, I think Herbig is in the last year of his rookie deal. There’s not a lot, right? I mean, I know we have Jack Sawyer on the roster, they drafted him last year on Day 3, but I don’t know if he’s a long-term solution there,” he said. “T.J. Parker’s a good player. So, is that not on your top-five list of needs, given the potential lack of depth at edge rusher?” (3rd para. While quarterback, cornerback, safety, offensive line and linebacker appear more pressing now, Wilson sees edge as vulnerable soon, especially if Herbig leaves as a free agent. Retaining him could prove challenging behind the veterans. Addressing it early in the first round makes sense to Wilson, despite the apparent current strength.