2015 NFL Draft: Steelers Select Anthony Chickillo

With the compensatory selection issued to them by the NFL, the Pittsburgh Steelers select Anthony Chickillo

with their final selection in the sixth round of the 2015 NFL draft.

The first defensive end to be selected by the Steelers in this year’s draft after adding depth to the secondary and defensive tackle positions, Chickillo brings depth to a group of defensive groups who have their starters set for the future, but not much depth beyond that.

The 6’3″, 270 pound former Miami Hurricane played all over the defensive line during his time in college. He has the ability to handle strong offensive linemen, but if tasked to handle more than one man at a time he could find himself in trouble.

Like Michael Sam, he is considered a “tweener” and has no definite position on the d-line. With coaching and conditioning, he could be formed into a pure defensive end or even a linebacker. If they are unable to find a spot for him, he would make an excellent addition to their special teams squad.

In three years at The U, he racked up a total of 124 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, and 12 sacks. He will not be expected to come in and start by any means, and will most likely be a practice squad player if he cannot make the final 53 man roster.

With so little talent left towards the end of the draft, picks like these cannot be considered “busts” or wasted picks, but it all depends on how the Steelers can develop Chickillo. It will be seen if he can be a constant rotational defensive end for the Steelers in the years to come, or if he was a gamble the team rolled a pair of snake eyes on.

The Steelers have one more selection in the draft this year with the 239th overall selection in the seventh round.

Next: Steelers Add Depth to TE Group with James Pick

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