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Steelers' Draft Call Sparks Controversy
25 Apr
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.
NFL Network broadcast footage of Lemon speaking with the Steelers, which may lead to repercussions for Pittsburgh. However, given the compressed nature of the NFL draft's first round, with each pick having an eight-minute limit, the league might not pursue disciplinary action. Ultimately, the Eagles still managed to select Lemon, and the public embarrassment could serve as sufficient punishment for the Steelers, who were hosting the draft.
