Steelers mock draft: Trade-back allows all needs to be met

Fourth Round

While offensive tackle isn’t as pressing of a need due to the options the Steelers now have, adding a developmental prospect on day three makes a lot of sense long term. Brady Christensen has some athletic limitations, but for a team looking to get more power in their run game, Christiensen is a solution. He is a big mauling tackle that helped pave the way for BYU’s successes this past season.

While he tested well as an athlete, he never looked overly comfortable in space. It is clearly the area of his game that he needs to work on the most. That said, he could be a long-term option at either tackle spot if he works on his ability in space. If worse comes to worst, he could even potentially slide inside. That said if given the proper time there is plenty of reason to hope that he can man a tackle spot in the future.

While the team has expressed some early-round consideration at edge rusher, the fourth round seems like a wise time to look to add depth. Alex Highsmith should take over as the starter, but having a capable rotational option and depth piece is key. Jonathan Cooper won’t wow anyone with his athletic profile, but his workmanship and attitude are hard to ignore.

He would instantly come in and compete for the number three outside linebacker spot on the roster as well as cutting his teeth on special teams. He has a decent pass-rushing skill set as well, meaning that long term he could develop into something more than just a reserve. While his limitations will likely keep him from stardom, Cooper would be a safe and critical addition to a thin depth chart.