With the NFL scouting combine on the horizon, many unrecognized prospects can put their names on the map. The Steelers must evaluate all options and if they fall in love with a player, they shouldn’t be afraid to pull the trigger.
With the Steelers first selection coming in the middle of the second round, there is not much room for error. Many of the big-name prospects will likely be gone before the Steelers even have a chance to get them. With that said, don’t be disappointed if the pick is a player you most likely haven’t heard of.
There have been many cases of unrecognized players going on to become high-quality NFL players. For example, one more recent example is Indianapolis Colts linebacker, Darius Leonard. Leonard coming out of Division 2 school, South Carolina State, has become one of the best defensive players in the NFL. He was first team all-pro as a rookie and was dominant again this season. He finished this year with 121 tackles, 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 5 interceptions.
Granted the Colts hit the jackpot with this pick, however, it displays the Steelers still have an opportunity to select a high impact player. 3 under-the-radar prospects that would be good additions to the Steelers include Boise State edge rusher Curtis Weaver, LSU offensive lineman Lloyd Cushenberry III, and Oregon linebacker Troy Dye.
All three of these players would be solid additions to the Steelers roster. They will all provide solid value and won’t come at expensive prices, which is why it would be wise for the Steelers to investigate these prospects.