The Pittsburgh Steelers approached the 2025 NFL Draft with a clear objective: to become bigger, stronger, and more physical — a goal they largely achieved.
They bolstered their defensive line by selecting Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black, both of whom bring size, athleticism, and versatility. Kaleb Johnson was added to replace Najee Harris as a physical presence in the backfield, and edge rusher Jack Sawyer impressed with his strength, especially against the run.
These additions led many to consider the Steelers one of the draft’s winners. However, there were trade-offs. The team passed on highly regarded quarterbacks such as Shedeur Sanders and Jalen Milroe, instead drafting Ohio State’s Will Howard in the sixth round.
They also skipped out on some of the top cornerbacks, prompting NFL writer Albert Breer to name them among the teams that could be potential suitors for Pro Bowl corner Jaire Alexander.
Breer mentioned the Steelers alongside teams like the 49ers, Rams, and Chiefs, who didn’t draft a cornerback in the first two rounds.
However, Alexander’s $17.5 million salary and recent injury history complicate trade prospects. He would reportedly prefer to be released to choose his next team, and there’s little indication he’d restructure his contract to make a deal easier.
Given his current cap hit of $24.6 million and the Packers’ potential dead cap hit — $17 million before June 1, or about $7 million afterward — a trade appears unlikely. And even if acquired, Alexander would not seamlessly fit into Pittsburgh’s lineup.
He, Joey Porter Jr., and Darius Slay are all primarily boundary corners, leaving the slot position — where Pittsburgh needs help — unresolved. The team is instead hoping for internal improvement from Beanie Bishop Jr.
Alexander would likely be a depth piece if he joined the Steelers, not a full-time starter, especially considering he’s played only 14 games over the last two seasons. While he remains effective when healthy, his availability is a concern — and he’s unlikely to accept a backup role.
As such, if the Steelers pursue a late-offseason addition, they’ll probably look elsewhere.
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