2025 NFL Draft Results: Steelers select LB Carson Bruener 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 LB Carson Bruener out of Washington with their 7th Round pick in the draft.

The Steelers are picking Washington LB Carson Bruener with their seventh-round pick.

— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) April 26, 2025

For more information on this player, check out this breakdown, courtesy of NFL.com:

Overview

Bruener doesn’t have the chiseled frame of a linebacker, but he seems to get things done. He comes from NFL bloodlines and plays stronger than his listed weight, with heavy hands. Despite the production, he appears to lack the functional speed and athleticism to survive against NFL offenses beyond the box. Bruener might not be an ideal fit as an NFL backup, but his special-teams work will be enticing for teams.

Strengths

• Impressive tackle production throughout career.
• Plays with eyes past blocks and into the backfield.
• Reads play design and leverages his pursuit angles.
• Powerful upper body to rip blocks away from his frame.
• Special-teams ace with production in all phases.

Weaknesses

• Missing NFL-caliber agility and athleticism.
• Does not cut an imposing figure in the uniform.
• Lacking speed to play from sideline to sideline.
• Poor short-area quickness to tackle slashers.
• Short on range in coverage and is non-threatening as a blitzer.

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: