Steelers Mock Draft: Mel Kiper Selects…
The Steelers have their work cut out for them this offseason in improving their biggest deficiency – much of the defense.
The end of the 2014 season is around the corner for the entire league. That means it’s time for draft gurus like Mel Kiper to begin speculating who’s going when and to whom in the 2015 draft.
With the 22nd pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers select….
This is what Kiper had to say about the pick:
The Steelers are long in the tooth at cornerback and need a player who can help early at that position (not an easy ask) but will get that kind of player if Johnson is still on the board here. Johnson has outstanding instincts and always seems to have a good idea of where the ball is going. He’s got slightly above-average length and, while a lean guy, shows fearlessness as a tackler — he’s not shy about playing the run.
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And there was much rejoicing in Steeler Nation. The Steelers haven’t selected a corner in the first round since Chad Scott back in 1997. 18 seasons is a looooooong time to have that kind of drought, and Steelers fans have been pining for one for many years. Things are desperate at the corner position – Ike Taylor is pretty much done, and Cortez Allen has become a terrible pick and contract extension blunder.
Antwon Blake and Brice McCain are serviceable and could really contribute if not simply add depth to that position. William Gay is best served in the slot but can man up against the #2 receiver – never the #1.
From all points here, it looks as if Johnson would be a solid first pick. Aggressive, good instincts, and plays well against the run – all things that make up a good Steelers corner. I could see defensive coordinator Keith Butler utilizing his skill set early rather than ride the pine in a Dick LeBeau system.
What are your thoughts Steeler Nation?