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Steelers Draft Strategy: Top 5 Needs

By Brandon Kring

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; Ryan Shazier (Ohio State) holds up his jersey after being selected as the number fifteen overall pick in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft to the Pittsburgh Steelers at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; Ryan Shazier (Ohio State) holds up his jersey after being selected as the number fifteen overall pick in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft to the Pittsburgh Steelers at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 15, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Quincy Wilson (6) intercepted the ball and ran it back for a touchdown against the Missouri Tigers eduring the second quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Quincy Wilson (6) intercepted the ball and ran it back for a touchdown against the Missouri Tigers eduring the second quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Need Number Two: Cornerback

It is no secret the Steelers pass defense still needs work. If it wasn’t obvious, Tom Brady and Co. let the world know in the AFC Championship.

The Steelers got off to a good start in rebuilding the secondary by selecting Artie Burns in 2016. The raw talent from Miami led the team with three interceptions and he showed man coverage ability.

His speed and size are a good blue print for Pittsburgh to follow as they search for a long-term answer opposite him.

The pass defense improved in 2016 although it did not feel that way. Pittsburgh went from 30th (2015) to 16th (2016). While still not acceptable, it is a step in the right direction.

The Steelers will likely take the best available player between outside linebacker and cornerback come April. The team will also look at Senquez Golson almost as an extra second round pick. Here are potential cornerback targets:

  • Gareon Conley, Tre’Davious White, Quincy Wilson
  • Chidobe Awuzie, Kevin King, Cam Sutton
  • Demontae Kazee, Kevin King, Howard Wilson
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