2020 Steelers mock: Trade back brings talent to the trenches

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays the text "THE PICK IS IN" for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays the text "THE PICK IS IN" for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
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AUSTIN, TX – NOVEMBER 29: R.J. Turner #2 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders is tackled by B.J. Foster #25 of the Texas Longhorns in the second half at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on November 29, 2019 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
AUSTIN, TX – NOVEMBER 29: R.J. Turner #2 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders is tackled by B.J. Foster #25 of the Texas Longhorns in the second half at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on November 29, 2019 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)

3rd round pick, 102nd overall

Brandon Jones, S, Texas

Brandon Jones is a hard-hitting athletic safety from Texas who reportedly has wowed teams with his knowledge of the game.

https://twitter.com/TexasFootball/status/1232026834780508160

He put up a solid film reel at Texas and projects as a developmental starter in the NFL. He would instantly be the top backup at the position on the Steelers and would see most of his playing time in the dime. Long-term, he could make a move to be the future at SS if Terrell Edmunds isn’t retained past his rookie deal.

A receiver was an intriguing option here as well, but due to the higher need at safety and the fact this WR group is so deep, Jones makes more sense here. There should be some options at WR in the 4th round while the safety class dries up after this.

Others Considered: Cole Kmet, Chase Claypool, Tyler Johnson

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