The 2024 NFL Draft saw history being made as six quarterbacks were selected with the first 12 picks, setting a new record. The second day of the draft brought surprises and plenty of talent was still available. Among those picked in Round 3 were Malachi Corley, a wide receiver from Western Kentucky by the Jets (grade: B), Trey Benson, a running back from Florida State by the Cardinals (grade: A-), Brandon Coleman, an offensive tackle from TCU by the Commanders (grade: A), and Caedan Wallace, another offensive tackle from Penn State by the Patriots (grade: C-).
The Steelers made a significant move in Round 3 when they drafted linebacker Payton Wilson with pick No. 195 overall. Despite having torn his ACL twice and missing one of his knees' ACL, Wilson was highly productive during his college career at North Carolina State, recording 138 total tackles and six sacks in 2023 while winning the Chuck Bednarik Award as the best defender in college football and the Butkus Award as top linebacker. He was also a unanimous All-American selection, first-team All-ACC, and ACC Defensive Player of the Year.
Meanwhile, at Ford Field in Detroit, fans continued to flock to the NFL Draft Experience on Day 3. The event set a new attendance record with over 775,000 people attending throughout the weekend. Michigan native and musician Bazzi performed at the final concert of the event and encouraged attendees that anything they want to do in life is possible.
The Steelers have made four selections so far in the draft: offensive tackle Troy Fautanu from Washington, center Zach Frazier from West Virginia, wide receiver Roman Wilson from Michigan, and linebacker Payton Wilson. They hold three more picks on Day 3: one in the fourth round (119th overall), two in the sixth round (originally held by Panthers but acquired in Diontae Johnson trade).
