Best-case scenarios for every Steelers pick in 2021 NFL Draft

Round 3:

(Note, the use of Wisconsin here is a placeholder as Wisconsin-Whitewater does not have a code left)

The Steelers biggest need is center in this draft, but unfortunately there isn’t a prospect worth the team’s first round pick. 55 opens the door, but with Freiermuth being the guy there, the third round becomes the primary center target zone. While Quinn Meinerz is a small school option, his value has taken off since the senior bowl and his crazy athletic testing. It is a real possibility that the Steelers would have to take him in the second round at this point.

55 would be a little rich for Meinerz though, thus making him the third-round best-case scenario option logical. While he wouldn’t come in and start instantly, he could serve as an interior swing option as he hones his skills. His arch could be similar to Kevin Dotson, where he earns a starting role by the end of the season. He is a strong interior presence with some surprising level of athleticism.

While he may not be a plug and play starter, it wouldn’t be surprising for Meinerz to work his way into a starting role eventually. He can work in space and punish lineman on running plays. His small school nature will keep him down, but his impressive profile is earning him well deserving buzz. Don’t be surprised if he is the target in the third round, and if he makes it that far, the Steelers should be running to turn in their draft card.