5 longshot draft picks that could fall to the Steelers

Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Micah Parsons (11). Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Micah Parsons (11). Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Christian Darrisaw #77 of the Virginia Tech Hokies (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Christian Darrisaw OL, Virginia Tech

Next to Penei Sewell, and Rashawn Slater,  Darrisaw is probably the highest-rated offensive lineman in the draft. However, it’s not a forgone conclusion he is the next offensive lineman off the board. Granted, in most mock drafts, he comes off the board by the 20th pick 83% of the time; in 2%, he actually falls to the Steelers.

How Darrisaw falls to Pittsburgh

While an improbable scenario it’s not as impossible as you might think. Of the first ten selections, Darrisaw will stay on the board, barring some unexpected development. Assuming Rashawn Slater is the 11th pick, if not earlier, the earliest Darrisaw likely goes is at pick 14.   Once beyond the 13th pick, Alijah-vera Tucker and Sam Cosmi could get nods before Darrisaw. Also, between picks 15-20, if any of these players: Newsom, Farley, Waddle, Kormoah, Harris, Barmore, Collins, Tyron, Phillips, or Paye come off the board, then Darrisaw stays in play. If he is still available at pick 21, the colts could go a few different directions. The Titans may go defensively, whereas the Jets could snag a wide receiver or running back to compliment the quarterback they take at the number two pick, which leaves Darrisaw at the 24th selection.

Why take Darrisaw:

Like Parsons, Darrisaw would be a steal for the Steelers if this occurs. Granted not as versatile as Slater, Darrisaw would still be instrumental in protecting Roethlisberger and bolster the running game, which faltered in so many ways. If Darrisaw is there, he is the Steelers’ choice bar none. Sure it’s improbable; however, if he remains on the board after picks 19 and 20, then keep an eye on him.