3 under-the-radar prospects the Steelers should keep an eye on

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 06: Troy Dye #35 of the Oregon Ducks, right, intercepts a Tyler Huntley pass intended for Brant Kuithe #80 of the Utah Utes late in the fourth quarter during the Pac-12 Championship football game at Levi's Stadium on December 6, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. The Oregon Ducks won 37-15. (Alika Jenner/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 06: Troy Dye #35 of the Oregon Ducks, right, intercepts a Tyler Huntley pass intended for Brant Kuithe #80 of the Utah Utes late in the fourth quarter during the Pac-12 Championship football game at Levi's Stadium on December 6, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. The Oregon Ducks won 37-15. (Alika Jenner/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 4
Next
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 06: Linebacker Troy Dye #35 of the Oregon Ducks celebrates after sacking the Utah Utes quarterback during the second half of the Pac-12 Championship Game at Levi’s Stadium on December 06, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 06: Linebacker Troy Dye #35 of the Oregon Ducks celebrates after sacking the Utah Utes quarterback during the second half of the Pac-12 Championship Game at Levi’s Stadium on December 06, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Troy Dye

Troy Dye is one of the more interesting names in this year’s draft class. Dye has been one of the best all-around defenders in the Pac-12. This past season, Dye once again showcased his ability as one of the most versatile players in the entire draft by finishing with 84 total tackles, 4 pass deflections, 2.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions.

Adding a Swiss army knife player like Dye would do wonders for the Steelers defense. They can confidently throw him in at any spot in the lineup (aside from the defensive line) knowing he will come in and make a play.

Outside of Devin Bush, the linebacking core is devoid of young, up and coming talent. Vince Williams is aging and is clearly losing a step in his game. Also, while Mark Barron has been a serviceable player for the Steelers, his cap hit is not worth the mediocre play. With the cap situation being dire, it would not surprise me to see Barron become a cap casualty and his loss would not necessarily hurt the team.

Secondly, due to Dye’s versatility, he could be a potential replacement or at least provide solid competition for the disappointing, Terrell Edmunds. Edmunds is the clear weak link in what is otherwise a very talented secondary. Replacing him should be a high priority this off-season.

dark. Next. 3 Steelers draft prospects who hurt their stock at the NFL combine weigh-ins

Adding a player like Dye would allow the defense to do a lot more. They could create more complex schemes and play designs to further confuse offenses. Dye would be a great addition in helping this defense continue its dominance and cement itself as one of the best in the National Football League.