Steelers 2021 mock draft: Taking the best players available

Less than three weeks away from the 2021 NFL Draft, all debates regarding what position should be taken at 24 for the Pittsburgh Steelers are put aside. 

No, they should draft a running back at 24. Who’s going to block for him? Who cares about either; if a QB falls, the Pittsburgh Steelers have to trade up!

As most of the debates are in good fun, the moment the selection is called out nearly three weeks from now on April 29, none will matter but perhaps the egos of those that will be filled by saying, “I told you so.” Whoever it is &andwhatever happens, we as fans must know that the choice will be made by who the Steelers feel is the best player available to them.

Let’s follow the trend using The Draft Network’s mock draft machine. On the first attempt, only rounds one-four will be done without any re-do on my end, choosing among the top remaining listed names at each Steelers pick. Here’s what I came up with:

Round 1: LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koromoah

Would this feel like a luxury pick for the Steelers? Many fans may not like the idea of drafting a linebacker at 24, but knowing who is LB1 in this draft, Jeremiah Owusu-Koromoah’s value here would be great.

At 6’1, 215 pounds, JOK is what we would label “the potential to be the modern model LB.” Not solely because of his measurables, but also the fact that he will likely fit in the NFL  as a weakside LB, with the added versatility to be an asset as a nickel LB/slot corner/box safety.

He’s athletic and has elite-level instincts that allow him to be in position on nearly all plays. A more than willing tackler, JOK has the makings of it all and would transition perfectly into the Steelers defense and provide a much-needed addition.

Best available options: 

EDGE Azeez Ojulari, EDGE Kwity Paye, CB Greg Newsome II, LB Zaven Collins