2015 Steelers NFL Mock Draft: 7 Rounds v19.0

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Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

What cannot be disputed is that Frank Clark of Michigan is a promising pass rusher who could come in and help a team in need help at strongside outside linebacker in the very near future. Unfortunately, a prospect like Clark comes with a heap of off-field baggage, most recently related to domestic violence (the charges were ultimately dropped), which makes his draft stock and status as a “draftable” prospect in general something of an unknown at this point.

When it comes to his on-field exploits, Clark enjoyed two solid seasons as a starter for the Wolverines (2013-2014: 110 tackles, 34.5 TFLs, 11.0 sacks, 1 FF, 4 FRs, 6 PDs). The former Michigan defensive end (6’3” 271 lbs.) has long arms, executes a good bull-rush when he gets proper hand placement and bends around the edge well for a player of his size on his speed rush.

Clark also possesses terrific instincts when it comes to defending misdirection plays and bootlegs. Best of all, Clark’s long arms keep also offensive linemen at bay and clog up passing lanes. In addition, Clark even displayed the athletic ability to hold his own in the flats in pass coverage which is a huge plus for any college defensive end looking to make the transition to a 3-4 scheme as an outside linebacker.

As far as on-field negatives are concerned, the former Wolverine will need to improve when it comes to disengaging from blockers, exploding off the snap regularly and using his inside move as a pass rusher. Playing with consistent pad level and balance will also be areas which Clark needs to work on as well.

Truthfully, I would have a late-third/early-fourth round grade on Clark had his off-field issues not occurred. However, with what transpired between Clark and his girlfriend I have little to no idea when or who could take him.

This pick is probably extremely unpopular to some of you. Yet the Steelers currently need capable depth and a future starter at outside linebacker. They are also a team which has taken chances on prospects before, in much higher rounds I might add, with off-field issues.

If I was a member of an NFL front office, I wouldn’t take Clark until he passed a number of psychological evaluations. Furthermore, he would have to undergo and subsequently pass a lengthy interview process. However, this is the NFL, readers. Guys like Greg Hardy can maintain a job as long as they can play and play at a productive level on a weekly basis.

As I mentioned previously, the Steelers have a need at strongside outside linebacker and a player like Clark could provide some help in that area. I personally do not know how far the former Wolverine will slide on draft weekend, but I believe he will be in the mix as a third day choice for some teams. Whether or not Pittsburgh’s brass are interested will be something to follow if they are looking to double-dip at outside linebacker.

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