2015 Steelers NFL Mock Draft: 7 Rounds v9.0
Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Marcus Gilbert and Maurkice Pouncey are the only two offensive linemen on the Steelers’ roster who are signed beyond the 2016 regular season. Tackles Kelvin Beachum and Mike Adams will each be free agents next spring if they are not extended. In addition, starting guards Ramon Foster and David DeCastro will be free agents the following year too.
With uncertainty along their offensive line as far as the 2016 season and beyond is concerned, it might behoove the front office to take time to look at some developmental prospects in the upcoming draft process. One player who comes to mind is Mickey Baucus of Arizona.
Baucus started every game of his collegiate career for the Wildcats and manned the left tackle spot in Rich Rodriguez’s spread offense. A tackle with a large frame (6’8″ 309 lbs.), longer arms and durability (52 starts), Baucus was the left tackle in Arizona’s fast-paced attack during his four years at the school.
Adjusting to a NFL scheme will likely take time for Baucus; particularly if he goes to a power-man blocking scheme as opposed to a zone-based one. Baucus will also have to improve his bend when he pass blocks, maintain better balance in the run game and stay on his blocks longer at the second level. Furthermore, the addition of some much needed weight and strength to his frame will help him anchor against professional defenders.
While he shouldn’t be asked or required to play right away, I see Baucus as a late-round option for a team looking for future depth and an athletic project to add to their offensive line. The Steelers should be in the market to solidify what could be an offensive line in flux over the next couple of seasons, and Baucus could be worth a late round choice to offensive line coach Mike Munchak.
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