Steelers Welcome Top Draft Prospects, Including Two Potential First-Round Picks
As the NFL draft approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers are actively engaging top talent. On Thursday, the team welcomed three notable draft prospects: Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, USC wide receiver Makai Lemon, and Michigan tight end Marlin Klein. McNeil-Warren and Lemon are touted as potential first-round picks, underscoring the significance of this pre-draft visit.
Top Draft Prospects Visiting the Steelers
The Steelers are assessing their options as they prepare for the draft. The addition of McNeil-Warren and Lemon to their pre-draft evaluation indicates the team’s interest in enhancing both their defense and offense.
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren: A Defensive Standout
- Position: Safety
- Height: 6’4″
- College: Toledo
- Key Stats: Nine forced fumbles
McNeil-Warren is lauded for his height and physical play. He displays versatility, capable of engaging in various defensive roles. Although primarily recognized for his downhill play style, he also possesses the agility to operate effectively in space. He is competing with Ohio State’s Caleb Downs and Oregon’s Dillon Thieneman for positioning as the top safety in the draft.
Our scouting report emphasizes McNeil-Warren’s positive attitude and strong collegiate performance. With further development, he could evolve into a reliable every-down starter in the NFL.
Makai Lemon: A Rising Star at Wide Receiver
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Height: 5’11”
- Weight: 192 lbs
- 2025 Stats: 79 receptions, 1,156 yards, 11 touchdowns
Lemon is regarded among the elite wide receivers in the current draft class. He made an impressive impact last season, earning All-American honors. While he is often viewed as a potential slot receiver due to his size, his versatility allows for contributions across various offensive roles.
Our scouting evaluation highlights his excellent route-running skills, strong hands, and proficiency in creating separation. Although he may not fit the traditional profile of a premier outside receiver, his skill set positions him as a potential high-impact starter in the NFL.
Marlin Klein: The Projected Tight End
- Position: Tight End
- Height: 6’6″
- Weight: 248 lbs
- College: Michigan
- Combine Results: 4.61 40-yard dash, 36-inch vertical jump
Klein, originally from Germany, combines size and athleticism. Despite limited use at Michigan, he has shown potential with above-average blocking skills and a notable catch radius. Our report points to his untapped receiving capabilities, highlighting his need for development in route running.
Projecting Klein’s NFL future indicates he may serve initially as a rotational tight end but could evolve into a more significant contributor depending on his development.
Conclusion
The Steelers continue their assessment of top draft prospects as they prepare for the upcoming NFL draft. With 23 out of 30 non-local visits confirmed, the team’s focus on enhancing their lineup is clear. The additions of players like McNeil-Warren, Lemon, and Klein could significantly impact Pittsburgh’s future.
