Steelers First-Round Pick Already Known

The rest of the NFL believes they know who the Pittsburgh Steelers are selecting.

Nov 11, 2023; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; Duke Blue Devils offensive lineman Graham Barton / Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers have targeted multiple positions throughout the NFL Draft cycle, looking at offensive linemen, cornerbacks and wide receivers before most other spots on the field. But the league believes they know who the black and gold are targeting heading into Round 1.

NFL insider Tony Pauline believes the Steelers are looking at Duke center Graham Barton with their first-round pick. That's after talking to many across the league who hold the same belief with roughly a week before draft night.

"Speculation from people in the league familiar with the organization is that Graham Barton of Duke will likely be the pick," Pauline wrote. "The reasoning is simple: Barton was an accomplished offensive tackle at Duke and projects to be a center in the NFL. The Steelers need help at both positions and Barton’s ability to line up at either makes him attractive."

The Steelers sent new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith to Duke's Pro Day and met with Barton at the NFL Combine. While they've said multiple times that they are comfortable with Nate Herbig playing center this season, they've spent enough time with the center class to make you think they'll add to the position.

Barton is rising quickly in the NFL Draft, being deemed the top player of the group. He'll likely be available at pick 20, and if the Steelers feel confident he's a difference-maker on their offensive line, there should be nothing stopping them from making the selection.

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