5 players Steelers should watch in the CFB Championship game

Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood (70) and running back Najee Harris (22) are interviewed after beating the Florida Gators in the SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood (70) and running back Najee Harris (22) are interviewed after beating the Florida Gators in the SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Steelers
Shaun Wade #24 of the Ohio State Buckeyes (Photo by Benjamin Solomon/Getty Images)*** Local Caption *** /

Shaun Wade

Out of everyone in this game, the most intriguing prospect for the Steelers may be Shaun Wilson. The cornerback used to be seen as a top ten pick, but a surge in the class and Ohio State’s limits on the season have caused his stock to tumble more into the second round. As well, he only had a good season, falling short of a lot of preseason expectations.

While cornerback isn’t considered a top need, adding a young player that can play inside or outside could be a vital long-term option for the team. Joe Haden is no youthful player, and both he and Steven Nelson are free agents next year. On top of that, both of the slot corners that the Steelers have are free agents this year. Wade has the size to move inside if need be and could even start there before transitioning to the outside later on.

Secondary could be a sneaky need for the team this offseason, and if Wade makes it to their second pick, the Steelers would be wise to pounce on him. He has great coverage skills and would be valuable as a starter as soon as next year. He certainly has a tall task ahead of him as he covers the current Heisman winner Smith. That said, even a mediocre performance against a top talent like Smith shouldn’t deter the Steelers from targeting him.

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While there will be a plethora of draft-eligible talent in this game, the five above make a lot of sense for the Steelers in this draft. Even if it isn’t a name on this list, don’t be surprised when the team selects a player that plays in this championship game. The five above make a lot of sense though, and each would look good in a Steelers uniform.