4 big names added to Steelers watchlist after Michigan, Virginia Tech Pro Days
By Tommy Jaggi
The Steelers had representatives on hand for two big Pro Days on Friday. Here are four players who must be considered first-round candidates in the NFL Draft.
Friday was a huge day for the Pittsburgh Steelers, as two of Mike Tomlin’s favorite schools hosted their 2021 Pro Days. Michigan and Virginia Tech both have a pair of potential first-round prospects, and Pittsburgh wasn’t about to miss out on the opportunity to give them a hard look prior to the NFL Draft.
Because both Michigan and Virginia Tech had Pro Days going on simultaneously, the Steelers were forced to divide and conquer – sending their brass to Michigan while a pair of representatives (including defensive backs coach Teryl Austin) scoped out the talent at Virginia Tech. With more meetings recorded, here are four prospects who must be considered as potential candidates for Pittsburgh with the 24th overall pick:
OL Jalen Mayfield
Jalen Mayfield is a player that checks a ton of boxes for the Steelers for a first-round pick, but he surprisingly hasn’t drawn a lot of buzz this offseason. At just 20 years old, Mayfield is a talented underclassman with good athletic traits and a competitive motor. While there are still some holes in his game (most notably his inconsistencies in pass protection) Mayfield has traits that could get him drafted late in the first round.
Mayfield was a right tackle for the Michigan Wolverines, but his sloppy footwork may have him best suited to play guard in the NFL. With a little more fine-tuning, however, there’s no doubt he could stick on the outside. We all know the Steelers could use offensive line help, and after meeting with the team, Jalen Mayfield is a player who should certainly be considered on Pittsburgh’s first-round radar.