2025 NFL Draft Results: Steelers select CB Donte Kent with 7th round pick
Entering the 2025 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers had a number of draft needs that they needed to address. The Steelers don’t possess a full allotment of draft picks after trading for DK Metcalf, and there were several positions which would be considered a glaring need on their roster.
With six total picks, the following positions could be viewed as a priority entering the selection process: quarterback, wide receiver, cornerback, and even safety. Those positions, and more, were positions of need to help the black-and-gold get to the next level in 2025. There have been numerous thoughts and debates regarding what the team will do in Round 3 of the NFL Draft.
When the dust settled, the Steelers selected CB Donte Kent out of Central Michigan with their 7th Round pick in the draft.
With their final pick in the 2025 draft in the seventh round, the Steelers are selecting CB Donte Kent of Central Michigan
— Dale Lolley (@dlolley_pgh) April 26, 2025
For more information on this player, check out this breakdown, courtesy of NFL.com:
Overview
Speedy four-year starter and team captain with the athletic ability to garner Day 3 interest in the draft. Kent’s measurables are better suited for the slot, but he can play outside if needed. His speed and burst lead to pass breakups, but he lacks the route anticipation and instincts to turn more of those into interceptions. He’s not scheme-dependent but is better in man coverage than he is in zone. He’s tough enough in run support and has potential as a gunner or punt returner, which should increase his draft value.
Strengths
- Four-year starter and team captain with 47 career passes defensed.
- Impressive athletic testing at pro day.
- Can make up for lost ground or stay in phase with deep routes.
- Good burst to match route breaks in man coverage.
- Snoops from zone and is willing to overlap coverage to make a play.
- Possesses the right amount of toughness for run support.
- Capable of competing for roles as a gunner and punt returner.
Weaknesses
- Finished college career with just two interceptions.
- Can be upright and lackadaisical with movements in space.
- Lack of instincts and eye trust hinder interception opportunities.
- Below-average route recognition and anticipation.
- Can be inefficient in coverage movements, causing routes to disconnect.
What are your thoughts on the selection? Let us know in the comment section below, and be sure to stay glued to SCN for the latest Steelers news and notes throughout the 2025 NFL Draft. Be sure to check out the BREAKING NEWS podcast in the player below, when it is available:
How come Jordan Clark wasn’t selected with this pick?
Clark ran a 4.66 40 time.
That’s unfortunate for Jordan Clark. Perhaps a rookie tryout, or maybe he’ll be compelled to seek out his life’s work.