Steelers 2021 mock draft: Letting the computer decide rounds 1-7

Simulation 1

Round 1: Rashawn Slater, OL, Northwestern (TRADE: Steelers get pick 15, Patriots receive picks 24, 55, and 2022 5th rounder)

This trade is not too pricey for moving up that far into the first-round. It makes sense as Slater might be the most versatile offensive lineman in the NFL draft. This Northwestern product is very versatile and a very good player. He is a plug-and-play starter in this league no matter if it is at Center or Left Tackle. Giving up a second-round pick is tough but fixing the line in front of Ben Roethlisberger is the most important thing.

Round 3: Tutu Atwell, WR, Louisville

Atwell is a small and shifty receiver coming out of college. He had a breakout season last year but did not produce as much this season. It was a little disappointing but Louisville does not have the best program at the moment.

Round 4: Aaron Banks, OG, Notre Dame

Banks had a solid week of practice at the Senior Bowl. He adds more depth to the offensive line that is in desperate need of that. This is a great selection as Banks could eventually become a starter like Kevin Dotson showed this past season.

Round 6: Tre McKitty, TE, Georgia

McKitty might be one of the best-kept secrets in this year’s draft. He has a great ability to make blocks and fill in as an extra lineman. He has not produced much at all when it comes to catching the football while in college. A Matt Spaeth type of player is exactly what the Steelers need alongside Eric Ebron, who is the polar opposite.

Round 7: Josh Palmer, WR, Tennessee

Double-dipping at receiver is kind of a surprise but JuJu Smith-Schuster is leaving in free agency so Pittsburgh will need to find a replacement for the slot position. Palmer is a bigger-bodied receiver that could potentially be a special teams contributor while he tries to grow his game at the position.