Round 1: OLB Carl Lawson, Auburn
I decided to go EDGE rusher here with the Steeler’s first rounder, considering that Pittsburgh’s lack of a defensive pass rush may be their biggest weakness. Carl Lawson is a unique physical talent and would probably step right in as the Steeler’s best EDGE rusher. While injuries have plagued Lawson for his entire career, he is finally putting it together in his Junior season. Lawson has managed to collect 7.5 sacks in the Tiger’s first 8 games of the season.
Carl Lawson does a tremendous job here against Laremy Tunsil. Deceptive strength w/ great pass rush reperto... https://t.co/5lx2X9H9rO
— Jonathan Valencia (@JonValenciaDTSN) June 19, 2016
Possible Options: The other two players I considered using Pittsburgh’s first round pick on were Iowa CB Desmond King and Alabama TE O.J. Howard.
Desmond King would fill the obvious need of additional secondary help, while providing ball skills and physicality that are much needed in the Steelers defensive backfield.
O.J. Howard certainly would have been a luxury pick, with greater needs on the defensive side of the field. However, it is scary to envision his potential role in the Steelers prolific offense.