Steelers Land Blazing-Fast Texas CB in Latest Mock Draft
Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron turned heads at the NFL combine, posting an elite 4.39 time in the 40-yard dash, which was tied for fifth-fastest among cornerbacks.
Barron had five interceptions and 11 passes defended with the Longhorns last season. With his impressive ball skills and blazing-fast speed, he could be an ideal pairing with Joey Porter Jr. in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ secondary. The Steelers are in desperate need of a No. 2 cornerback, as Donte Jackson and Cam Sutton are both unrestricted free agents. Both veteran corners did not finish the 2024 season on a high note, either.
Ryan McCrystal of Sharp Football has the Steelers landing Barron at 21st overall in his latest mock draft.
“The Steelers could lose Cameron Sutton and Donte Jackson to free agency, which would make the secondary a priority on draft day. The Steelers likely want someone capable of playing an immediate key role, which should put Texas’ Jahdae Barron and Michigan’s Will Johnson on their radar,” McCrystal wrote.
Charles Davis of NFL.com and Rob Maaddi of the Associated Press also have the Steelers picking the highly touted Texas Longhorn in their latest mock drafts.
“The Steelers have a need at running back with Najee Harris hitting free agency, but the defense needs help, too. Barron projects nicely as a future starter opposite Joey Porter Jr.,” Davis wrote.
“Barron is a proven, tested and versatile player who can play outside or in the slot. The Steelers can address their receiver needs in free agency or through a trade, making Barron the pick here,” Maaddi wrote.