Steelers’ best first-round options remains corner or linebacker

The Pittsburgh Steelers filled two major holes on their defense during free agency, but the same positions remain the best options with the 20th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.

Mark Barron and Steven Nelson received the warmest welcomes when they came to Pittsburgh. The former Chiefs cornerback and Rams inside linebacker were the two biggest free agent signings the Steelers have seen in years. But even if there are new stars, this team should still focus on their original draft plan.

Back in January, the Steelers only thought with the 20th overall pick was defense. Whether it was inside or outside linebacker or cornerback, Pittsburgh had one thought in the first-round; defense.

Now, after letting Le’Veon Bell walk and trading Antonio Brown, the options have opened up. Many believe replacing AB has become a top priority, even after signing Donte Moncrief. Others feel if the right running back is sitting there at the end of the first-round, adding that second runner is the pick.

Even after losing two offensive superstars, though, defense is the best option for the Steelers. Nelson and Barron add the immediate starters this team needed last season, but there are factors Pittsburgh needs to consider before leaving the defensive side of the ball.

For one, Joe Haden is aging. Despite a renaissance year in 2018, Haden is an aging corner coming into his final year of his contract. Replacing him isn’t a priority but having a player work behind him and Nelson leaves a security blanket for now and the future.

Then, there’s inside or outside linebacker. On the inside, there are too many options not to believe it’s a good pick. From Devin White to Devin Bush, the first-round has stars that can cover both the run and pass. Barron and Vince Williams will fill the inside, but if Pittsburgh can add another option to compete for a spot with Jon Bostic there’s no reason not to consider it.

On the outside, there’s no reason to believe Bud Dupree is the answer after this season. Even if the team is expecting to bring him back after the 2019 season, having another player to compete for the starting job is a must. After years of injuries and disappointing stat lines, Dupree’s time as a starter is on thin ice.

The opening round of this year’s draft may not have many noteworthy options for edge rushers late in the first-round, but if one falls it’s a position to highly consider.

The Steelers’ offense remains one of the best in football. Even without AB or Le’Veon Bell, the talent is as high as it comes in the NFL. With ten draft picks, finding guys to fill roles will come as the draft moves on. There’s no need to rush anything and miss the opportunity to find true defensive stars in the first-round.