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Pittsburgh Steelers Meet the Pick: OL Chukwuma Okorafor

By Brandon Kring

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Western Michigan offensive lineman Chuks Okorafor speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Western Michigan offensive lineman Chuks Okorafor speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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The Pittsburgh Steelers made a surprise pick in the third round when they took an offensive lineman. The general thought was they would go inside linebacker after going QB and WR in their previous two picks but they did not.

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost Chris Hubbard to Cleveland in free agency. This delivered a blow to the depth and quality of the offensive line as a unit from top to bottom.

Hubbard was an extremely versatile and talented backup that helped solidify the Steelers early last season. When Marcus Gilbert was injured/suspended, Hubbard played for him and started 10 games.

After his display of starter ability, Pittsburgh had no choice but to lose him to the market. Hubbard signed a deal with the Browns to be a starting tackle for them.

This loss in free agency created a draft need for the Steelers on the offensive line. They did not need to use a top pick on one and they somewhat did not.

The Steelers waited until their late third rounder to select Chukwuma “Chuks” Okorafor. Okorafor played college ball at Western Michigan.

He is huge, and I do not say that lightly as he stands at 6’6″ tall and 320 pounds. His hands are 10 1/4″ and his arm length is 34 1/2″.

The first thing I read about Okorafor was “looks like Tarzan plays like Jane.” This is not something you want to read about a newly selected offensive lineman.

The more I read about him the more I see that is just the way of saying he must be more physical at the next level. He is a better pass blocker than run blocker at this point in his career but has tremendous upside.

The Steelers did well to address the offensive line. They have their starters and he will not threaten their jobs anytime soon. However, he has the tools needed to groom into a starting spot for the future.

Next: 4 things to watch for during Rookie Mini Camp

Okorafor started football late in his life so he has plenty of learning to do at the next level. With a hall of fame coach like Mike Munchak, the big rookie has nowhere to go but up with his potential. He has all the tools to succeed as a starter in the league if he works hard until his chance comes.

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