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

Sixth Round

This name will likely bring about the “he isn’t athletic enough” crowd that focuses solely on combine scores when looking at draft talent to be upset, but Paris Ford is going to end up being a value pick down the road for someone. While his athletic issues will likely keep him from becoming elite, Ford has natural instincts and a hard-hitting attitude to find some level of success at the NFL level.

While his athletic limitations are noted, Ford was one of the better defensive backs in the college ranks over the years. He did this at Pittsburgh as well, so it’s not like he wasn’t facing good competition every season. He registered six interceptions during his college career, which is an indication of some level of ball-hawking skill. He was also considered one of the better tacklers at the safety position.

His disastrous pro day has sent his stock tumbling, but for a Steelers team that has no depth at safety, adding Ford this late would be a value. He could be a backup at both positions as well as serving a key role on special teams. At worst, he should become a solid special teams player given his instincts and tenacity. If he develops properly, he could end up being a low-end starter or a key rotational piece on a defense. Getting value like that in the sixth round is a steal.