Steeler Nation, Grade Your Draft Picks: Rounds 6 & 7

7th Round, 223rd Overall: Nick Williams

Feb 25, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Purdue Boilermakers defensive lineman Kawann Short (39), and Samford defensive lineman Nick Williams (51), and Connecticut Huskies defensive lineman Trevardo Williams (54) pose for a photo after finishing their on the field workouts during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

The Steelers had a very specific list of needs going into the draft and rounded them off by filling their final selection with a defensive lineman.  Again, the Steelers struggle in depth just like so many others on defense and selected DE Nick Williams to ‘help.’  Dom has this to say of Williams:

Already, Nick possesses a frame (6’4″ 309 lbs.) perfectly suited for him to make the transition to the five-technique defensive end position.  In addition to his frame, Nick’s long arms (34.125″), big hands (10.25″), and deceptive quickness will definitely come in handy for him when he is asked to gap-clog and shed blocks aside at the point of attack.  Best of all though is the fact that Williams will be able to work with longtime defensive line coach John Mitchell who has turned late-round and UDFA prospects into effective starters at the professional level over his career…. While this pick is not particularly ‘flashy,’ it is a sensible one for rebuilding purposes.  The Steelers need help at the five-techniques, and Williams could very well be a ‘diamond in the rough.’

A diamond in the rough indeed.  Let’s just hope Williams is not like another ‘diamond in the rough’ from last year – a Mr. Alameda Te’amu.  At this point in the draft, any kind of valued pick you can get is a good one.  The Steelers filled a need to begin addressing depth issues on the defensive line, and as Dom pointed out, Williams should be able to help bolster the five-techniques.  I think Williams is a good pick this late, and show much potential considering the coach he’ll be working with.  But how well can he grow a beard??????

How would you grade the Nick Williams pick?