Let’s mock the 2020 NFL draft: Steelers are on the clock

The Steelers may opt to upgrade or reinforce skill positions on both sides of the ball

When we traded for Vance McDonald in 2017, I, for one, was ecstatic.  I thought we were getting one of the best blocking tight ends who could contribute in the passing game.  Although McDonald has missed his fair share of games over his career, when healthy, I believe he can contribute to our efforts.

With that said, I also believe that adding a TE to the mix would not be a bad thing either.  With the first of our two fourth-round picks, I see the Steelers taking a TE who is both athletic, in other words, who may be able to be ‘flexed out’ in certain formations and is a capable blocker.

Again, will a TE who ‘fits the bill’ be available in the fourth round?  Maybe, maybe not, but this is the round where teams start to find ‘gems’.  Perhaps the Steelers will find a ‘gem’ at the TE spot.

With the second of our fourth-round picks, I see the Steelers selecting a linebacker, either an ILB or an OLB, but a linebacker, nonetheless.  If we go the ILB route, we need to draft a linebacker who can cover, meaning we need to draft an athletic linebacker who is multi-dimensional.

If we are being objective about our ILBs who are currently on the roster, none of them has proven to be consistent in coverage.  I realize that on most passing downs, both ILBs are not generally on the field, but one usually is, so that one ILB has to be able to cover either a TE or an RB.

As far as the OLB position is concerned, with the recent announcement that the Steelers have placed the franchise tag on Bud Dupree, I think there is no longer a pressing need to take an OLB higher than the fourth round; however, depth is an issue.

What is also an issue is whether or not Dupree signs the tag.  Let’s assume he does, that’s great, but will the Steelers get similar production from Dupree as we did in 2019 or will his production regress? I don’t think the Steelers can afford to hope that Durpee’s production in 2020 will mirror last year’s production.

For that reason, I see us drafting an OLB who can provide depth at both positions, ROLB and LOLB, and who can possibly play ILB as well.  That would be a bonus if you ask me.

Let’s take a look at what positions the Steelers may target in the final two rounds.