2015 Steelers NFL Mock Draft: 7 Rounds v9.0
Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports
I should preface this installment of the mock draft by saying that I believe that the Steelers could be planning to utilize James Harrison and Arthur Moats as a rotational duo on the strongside this fall.
Even if that plan comes to fruition, the team will need a long-term option at the strongside outside linebacker position. Markus Golden of Missouri could be a sensible option for the franchise in the event they elect to wait until the middle rounds of the draft to select a developmental player after the first round.
After a season at Hutchison CC and one in a limited role with the Tigers, Golden broke out in a big way during the 2013 season as a backup to Kony Ealy and Michael Sam (55 tackles, 13.0 TFLs, 6.5 sacks, 2 FRs, 1 FF). To his credit, Golden followed up his solid junior campaign with a stellar effort in 2014. Overall, Golden recorded career highs in tackles (78), TFLs (20.0), sacks (10.0), forced fumbles (3) and fumble recoveries (3).
The former Tiger has a stout frame, has a high motor, is strong and can execute a mean bull rush. Also not hurting Golden’s case to be drafted by a 3-4 team is the fact that he did play some outside linebacker at the JUCO level before he transferred to Missouri.
In terms of negatives, Golden does not possess an array of pass rushing moves like other prospects in this class. He could stand to improve his pad level when setting the edge against the run and must illustrate that he can disengage from blockers better at the point of attack. He must get better when bending on his speed rushes, and also needs to display that he has the athleticism to handle pass coverage against professional running backs and tight ends.
Acquiring and retaining pass rushers will be an important task for the front office over the next two months. If he does fall into the third round, then Golden would probably be on the front office’s radars as a potential replacement for Jason Worilds and for depth purposes.
Next: Round 4