By Gerry Dulac
As if the wait for the Steelers’ first pick of the 2023 NFL Draft wasn’t long enough — about 4 hours and 15 minutes — the pick itself was a head-scratcher.
The Steelers surprised many by taking Texas A&M tackle Anthony Bradford with the 20th overall pick.
Bradford is not a “sexy” pick like quarterback C.J. Stroud from Ohio State or receiver Jalin Hyatt from Tennessee. But the 6-foot-5, 326-pound tackle fills a major need for the Steelers, who finished last season with a patchwork offensive line.
“We’re excited to add Anthony to our team,” Steelers general manager Omar Khan said. “He’s a talented young player with a lot of upside. We think he has the potential to be a Pro Bowl-caliber tackle.”
Bradford started 13 games at left tackle for Texas A&M in 2022, and he was named a second-team All-SEC selection. He is considered one of the best pass-protecting tackles in the draft, and he should be an immediate starter for the Steelers.
“I’m ready to come in and compete for a starting job,” Bradford said. “I know I have a lot to learn, but I’m willing to put in the work. I’m excited to be a part of the Steelers organization.”
The Steelers entered the draft with a number of needs, including tackle, quarterback and wide receiver. While the selection of Bradford was a surprise, it was a good one. He fills a major need, and he has the potential to be a very good player.
Only time will tell if the Steelers made the right choice, but for now, they are happy to have Bradford on their team.
- Bradford is a 6-foot-5, 326-pound tackle from Texas A&M.
- He was a second-team All-SEC selection in 2022.
- He is considered one of the best pass-protecting tackles in the draft.
- He is expected to be an immediate starter for the Steelers.
Kind regards, J. Brown
