Talk about drama. The Pittsburgh Steelers are the epitome of that. Ben Roethlisberger won the power struggle in the Steel city. Le’Veon Bell and Antonio Brown are no longer on the roster and Pittsburgh needs to reload in the upcoming draft. Kevin Colbert has a track record of drafting well in recent years. Let’s head inside the war room. What will the Steelers do during the 2019 NFL Draft?
First Round (Pick 20) – In my mock draft, I have the Steelers going with Devin Bush. This defense continues to go down the toilet without Ryan Shazier. I don’t know how anything is different. Until they find a true middle linebacker to lead this defense, things aren’t going to change. Bush gives the Steelers a similar type of player as Shazier. Fast, great range, and tackling ability. Moving up for Devin White would also be a smart play. All I know is they have to find a middle linebacker or this defense will stink again.
Second Round (Pick 52) – Cornerback should be a top priority too for Pittsburgh. Joe Haden is getting old. Artie Burns stinks. The Steelers did sign Steven Nelson but that’s not enough. One more young corner should do the trick. I think Julian Love could be a pick they think about in the middle of the second round. Love played really well at Notre Dame. He’s not the fastest corner ever (4.54 – 40 time) but he fits this zone scheme well. Versatile enough to play outside or in the slot. This is the type of guy Pittsburgh needs.
Third Round (Pick 66) – This is the Antonio Brown pick so wide receiver makes some sense. This is a top of the 3rd round pick so there’s a lot of value here. I wouldn’t mind a trade down if someone offers a future 2 either. I think you’re looking at whoever falls at receiver. I’m not even going to
Third Round (Pick 84) – How about a tight end? Jesse James signed with the Lions this offseason. That leaves just Vance McDonald. How about a second tight end? Jace Sternberger is a player I like a lot. 6-foot-4 with a large catch radius and gets open despite the fact that he lacks elite athletic traits. You may not replace Antonio Brown but you can manufacture his production in the aggregate. Draft a receiver and tight end. If you find one better than James, You’re not far behind what you were with Brown.
The Steelers could also go pass rusher and offensive line. TJ Watt and Bud Dupree isn’t enough. The offensive line is productive but also aging. Find some late round gems to plug in.
