Omar Khan pulls off masterclass of a draft

The 2024 NFL Draft is finally behind us. Omar Khan whipped up another masterclass. He focused on the trenches again. The focus was on athletic, older players who have leadership qualities and can be Day 1 starters. Let’s take a look at some of these dudes!

Troy Fautanu: He’s a mauler in the run game. Fautanu is as tough as it gets, willing to risk his body to protect his quarterback. Mike Tomlin already said he will play tackle; although he never specified which side. I love this pick not only because of his value but also because he solidifies the offensive line. Fautanu was the best lineman on the best offensive line in the nation last year. It’s clear why the Steelers chose him.

Zach Frazier: The Steelers went into the draft without a true center on the roster. Going into the next season without one would have been a dumpster fire. Once Frazier was still on the board at pick 51, it was a no-brainer to pick him. He brings toughness to the line. His wrestling background will help keep leverage against defensive linemen. 

Roman Wilson: Roman Wilson falling to pick 84 was a dream come true for the Steelers. He brings sub-4.4 speed, excellent route running, and “Mamba Mentality” to his game. Wilson was a huge part of Michigan’s success this past season. Although he is smaller than the average NFL receiver, he will give everything he has. And his willingness to block screams Pittsburgh Steeler.

Payton Wilson: Maybe THE steal of the draft. Some analysts thought he could go in round one, but injury concerns caused him to fall to Pittsburgh at the 98th pick. He’s an excellent playmaker in coverage, a tackle machine, and a quick blitzer. He will be a sideline-to-sideline linebacker. Last year’s Chuck Bednarik Award winner will have something to prove after falling.

Mason McCormick: Mason McCormick at the time was an interesting pick. But if you look at it, he has elite athleticism and I think we found our top guard for the future. McCormick has a nasty mean streak that will be a key to his success in the NFL. James Daniels and Nate Herbig’s contracts are up after the season, so seeing what the Steelers do will be interesting.

Logan Lee: Lee is undersized but has great athleticism. I think he fits best as a defensive end rather than a tackle. Stopping the run will be his ticket to the playing field, which he will be solid at.

Ryan Watts: Watts fits perfectly with the Steelers. The Steelers love their long, rangy “avatar corners”. Watts, standing at 6’2” and 34 ½” arms is exactly that. He brings physicality and is good in press coverage. His biggest concern is his speed, but he can find a way to contribute early on.



I think Khan’s preparation for the 2024 season will pay dividends come December. He is focused on smash-mouth, bully football. And the trend for this year’s draft seemed to be older, ready-to-start, leadership football players. I give Khan’s second draft the grade of A, what about yinz?