2021 draft: Steelers finally add their QB of the future
By Andrew Falce
Round 3:
The Steelers are set to lose some talent on the offensive line next year, and more specifically at the OT position. While there are some in house options to play either RT or LT, the Steelers will likely have to add a player in the draft. Alaric Jackson out of Iowa has the potential to be a long-term fixture at either OT spot, but he needs to develop more before actually starting there.
His biggest strength is his strength, and at 6’7, he is the definition of a people mover. The Steelers like their OT’s on the bigger side, so adding giant like Jackson to mold is right in their wheelhouse. He has decent quickness for a man his size and should prove to be an athletic member on the line.
The biggest flaw in his game is protecting the passer, as he can get outmaneuvered by defenders and lose position quickly. Simply put, he is not ready to start at OT, and doing so will likely lead to the QB taking too many hits. That said, improving his technique could lead to this trait being less prevalent. While he may never be a dominant pass blocker, if he develops enough, he could be serviceable enough to start at OT.