Steelers 2015 NFL Mock Draft: 7 Rounds v4.0

Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Adams is the only backup offensive tackle on the Steelers’ roster with any sort of professional experience. Let that one sink in, readers. The former second round pick has been more or less a liability through his first three seasons, and I would be shocked if the front office offers him a new deal after his rookie contract expires next spring.

It might benefit the Steelers to bring in some competition for Adams and some more depth behind Kelvin Beachum and Marcus Gilbert this year. Thus, it might make sense for their front office to look for some offensive line help on the second or third days of the draft.

A former H-Back in high school, Jamil Douglas developed into one of the Pac-12’s better offensive linemen over the last four seasons. A starter at left guard during the 2012 and 2013 campaigns (27 starts), Douglas manned the left tackle spot during his senior year in 2014 (13 starts).

While Douglas might lack the ideal frame (6’4″ 307 lbs.), strength and extended experience to contribute immediately at tackle at the professional level, his footwork, bend, hand use and immense athletic upside could lead him to step in at that position with a couple of years of development.

Even if Douglas is better suited to play guard in NFL, Steelers fans must keep in mind that Ramon Foster and David DeCastro could both be UFAs at the end of this season (Steelers have a team option for DeCastro in 2016). The only backup currently at the position is Chris Hubbard, and it would not surprise me in the least to see Pittsburgh add a versatile offensive lineman with Douglas’ upside to their roster via the draft or free agency.

Next: Round 5