Three draft options for the Steelers to replace CB Mike Hilton
Draft option as Sutton becomes the Steelers nickel CB
It’s expected that as Hilton heads to the Bengals, Sutton will fulfill his role as the nickel CB. However, the question now asked is who else? The top three spots on the depth chart for the Steelers are solidified, for regardless long they may, but the depth is extremely thin for a defense that likes to line up out of dime formations & removes Sutton from being the dime backer.
If the Steelers lose Cam Sutton this offseason, they're losing a guy who can wear almost defensive hat. Fill any role for a specific gameplan, replace any injury in the secondary. His 2020 snaps.
— Alex Kozora (@Alex_Kozora) January 16, 2021
– Dime Backer (196 snaps)
– LCB (171)
– NCB (139)
– RCB (40)
– SS (29)
– FS (1)
In steps, the University of Kentucky’s Kelvin Joseph. A climber in the draft boards as the months of the offseason pass us, Joseph will be one to watch on draft night.
He has a good frame at 6’1 & 190 lbs, nearly identical to the Steelers third-round pick in 2019, Justin Layne, & has a skillset that preaches patience & aggressiveness. Patient from the line of scrimmage, Joseph moves his feet well to mirror WRs off their release & has fluidity in his hips.
Top of screen: Kelvin Joseph, the really good. AA is outstanding. Doesn't overcommit to the jab and is able to drive back & close gap on stem. If he becomes consistent, sky is the limit with him. pic.twitter.com/91VX0EfVTD
— Dalton Miller (@DaltonBMiller) March 1, 2021
Joseph doesn’t get grabby with his hands & has that feel when guarding WRs downfield to know where they are, but also for the ball. Between the four interceptions & one pass deflection in nine games in 2020, he attacks the ball when it’s in the air & creates turnovers.
However, it’s consistency & inexperience for Joseph, plus reports of character concerns that raise worry. If he can do well in his technique, fixate his eyes on the field at times, & improve his willingness as a tackler, a team will get a promising talent with much upside. For example, in a situation with the Steelers where he will primarily learn for a year, the ceiling would be exciting.