Steelers host visit with Minnesota OL John Michael Schmitz

The Pittsburgh Steelers might be tipping their hand a bit on what their focus is heading into the 2023 NFL Draft. According to NFL networks Tom Pelissero, The Steelers had a visit with Minnesota Golden Gophers offensive lineman John Michael Schmitz on Friday.

“Minnesota OL John Michael Schmitz visited the Steelers today, per source. A projected first-round pick, Schmitz also has visits scheduled with the Jets (who previously worked him out privately) and the #Vikings,” said Pelissero via Twitter.

As mentioned by the NFL expert, Schmitz has all the tools to be a mid to late-round first-round pick, which would be perfect for the Steelers. Pittsburgh needs help along their offensive line to protect their future at quarterback Kenny Pickett. In his rookie season, Pickett started in 12 of the 13 games he played in for the Steelers. There was a tough learning curve for the former Pittsburgh Panthers standout, but he eventually righted the ship.

He finished the year completing 63 percent of his past attempts for 2404 yards, seven passing touchdowns, three rushing, and nine interceptions. Unfortunately, the Steelers’ offense line struggled to protect him, giving up 27 sacks, or 2.25 sacks per game.

Schmitz primarily played center for the Golden Gophers. Over his last two seasons, he has been impressive with his play within the interior of the offensive line. In 2021 Schmitz played in 13 games on a total of 837 snaps. He only allowed five quarterback hurries that year and did not give up a single hit or sack. That performance earned him second-team All-Big Ten honors.

Last season, he played 767 snaps in 12 games. Like last season, he allowed five QB hurries but allowed one hit and two sacks. Still, his performance earned his first-team All-American and first-team All-Big Ten.

Le’Raven Clark signs one-year deal with Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers are serious about revamping their offensive line. Offensive lineman Le’Raven Clark agreed to a one-year contract with Pittsburgh on Friday as well, the team announced. Clark played the 2022 season with the Tennessee Titans before signing with the Steelers in free agency.

The financial terms of the deal have not been reported. Clark has spent most of his career as a swing tackle, but has bumped inside to guard from time-to-time.

A third-round pick out of Texas Tech in 2016, Clark started his career with the Indianapolis Colts, where he spent four seasons. He played for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021 and then the Titans in 2022. Clark has been a reserve lineman most of his career, starting 18 games in his six-year career, to date.