Steelers to use a 30 visit on highly underrated prospect who could make good on recent NFL Draft miss in Pittsburgh
The Steelers are showing interest in a highly underrated prospect.
It’s approaching three years since the Pittsburgh Steelers traded up in the 2023 NFL Draft, jumping up for what they believed would be a franchise left tackle via Broderick Jones. Well, whether it was him playing out of position or not developing the way the Steelers hoped, or even the neck injury that he suffered in 2025 that still has him out indefinitely, it simply hasn’t worked.
Which is why offensive tackle has become such a popular choice atop the Steelers’ mock drafts. With one of the latest visits in Pittsburgh, the Steelers are doing their due diligence at the position, but via a sleeper prospect rather than a blue-chipper.
Steelers hosting Memphis OT Travis Burke on top 30 visit
Burke is not a household name like the Spencer Fano’s and Francis Mauigoa’s of the world, but he has quickly become a “riser” in this class. Tackles who can play in the league always move up the board. I spoke with A to Z Sports NFL Draft analyst Ryan Roberts about Burke, whom he has studied since his FCS days.
What would the Steelers get from Travis Burke?
“Burke began his career at FCS Gardner-Webb, eventually landing with FIU via the transfer portal. During his first season with FIU in 2023, Burke caught my attention due to his massive size and light feet. He dealt with durability issues during his two seasons with the program, but still showed some nice upside, especially in 2024. Burke put together his finest season with Memphis this past season, earning himself some opportunities during the predraft process.”
“At nearly 6-9 and 325 pounds, he is a massive offensive tackle with a ton of length. He is a bit stiff due to his high-cut frame, which hurts his ability to bend. Even with those limitations, Burke should have the requisite skills to fight for a role as a swing tackle on the next level. There is also some developmental upside to explore, as well.” – Roberts
Why the Steelers should take a swing on Burke
Beyond the obvious need at LT going forward, I believe the Steelers have severely upgraded at offensive line coach with James Campen. Taking a developmental player only works if you have the staff to devlop the skillset.
I believe Pittsburgh now has the infrastructure to do that.
The A to Z Sports NFL mock draft simulator offers a deeply customizable and data-driven experience with never-before-seen features. Try the mock draft simulator today, before the 2026 NFL Draft arrives!
Pittsburgh Steelers News
Steelers’ latest quarterback visit aligns with what Mike McCarthy just said he’s looking for in a rookie signal-caller
Mike McCarthy has a clear type at quarterback, and one Steelers pre-draft visit fits that mold.
