What rule did the Steelers potentially violate during the NFL draft?

The Steelers potentially violated the rule that prohibits teams not on the clock from discussing players in a way that could interfere with the team currently making a selection.

Can NFL teams talk to draft-eligible players before their pick?

Yes, teams not on the clock can discuss non-financial player interests, provided these discussions do not interfere with the team currently making a selection.

Will the NFL penalize the Steelers for contacting Makai Lemon?

It is uncertain if the NFL will penalize the Steelers, as the league may overlook the incident due to the compressed timeline of the draft's first round.

Home / Sports / Steelers' Draft Call Sparks Controversy

Steelers' Draft Call Sparks Controversy

25 Apr

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Summary

Steelers contacted a USC receiver before their draft pick.
Eagles executive noted clubs not on the clock may talk to players.
The incident could put the Steelers under league scrutiny.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are under scrutiny following a Thursday night incident during the NFL draft where they contacted USC receiver Makai Lemon. This occurred while the Philadelphia Eagles were still on the clock for their selection, potentially violating draft protocols.

Jake Rosenberg, a former Eagles executive, observed that teams not currently on the clock are permitted to discuss non-financial player matters, such as interest in playing for a particular club or player health, as long as these conversations do not interfere with the team currently making a selection. A source confirmed this rule to PFT.