Steelers 2015 NFL Mock Draft: 7 Rounds v1.0
Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
I understand that starting left tackle Kelvin Beachum could be in line for a contract extension this spring. I also understand that starting right tackle Marcus Gilbert just inked a lucrative extension of his own last summer. While the Steelers starters appear to be in place, the franchise is nevertheless in dire need of depth at both tackle positions.
Remember, Mike Adams is Pittsburgh’s only backup at the moment with any experience to speak of, and his future with the team is in doubt since he will reach UFA status after the 2015 campaign. The Steelers could re-sign the second-round bust on the cheap, but they might be better off grooming a long-term backup in the present.
So in an effort to hedge their future bets in the trenches, the Steelers would be wise to select an offensive tackle in this April’s draft. If they do go the tackle-route, Sean Hickey of Syracuse (6’6″ 308 lbs.) could be an underrated option for the team to turn to if they wait until the third day to address their need.
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At this stage of his career, Hickey is far from a finished product. The former Syracuse tackle could definitely stand to add some more weight to his frame so he can anchor better against bull-rushes. In addition, it would help Hickey to play with more consistent pad level, stay on his blocks better and play with more fluid technique. The two knee injuries he sustained at Syracuse also will not help his cause to be drafted earlier than many expect either.
Issues notwithstanding, Hickey reads his blocking angles well, can move to work at the second level of a defense and has the athleticism to at the very least develop into a reliable swing-tackle in the NFL with some development if his shorter arms do not force him inside to guard.
Even if a positional change happens for Hickey, Steelers fans should keep in mind that Ramon Foster (2016 UFA), David DeCastro (2016 UFA if fifth year option isn’t picked up) and Chris Hubbard (2016 RFA) will all have their current deals expiring soon too.
Next: Round 7