Steelers mock draft: Pittsburgh finally addresses biggest needs

The Steelers have avoided some weak areas, but here’s why I have them finally addressing some positions they have put off for too long in my latest mock draft.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are starting to show their true colors. As injuries and illness struck this year, it became increasingly evident where the greatest weaknesses were on the roster. Meanwhile, there are a handful of starters who have grossly failed to meet expectations this year.

Mike Tomlin’s team has a talent issue and no shortage of needs this offseason. In my latest seven-round Steelers mock draft, I have Pittsburgh biting the bullet and addressing some positions early that they have been putting off for far too long:

Steelers first-round pick: OT Charles Cross

I would be ecstatic if the Steelers somehow had a shot at Alabama OT Evan Neal next April. However, even with a disappointing season, that’s not looking like a possibility. NC State’s Ikem Ekwonu could also be gone. Fortunately for them, this is a strong offensive tackle class, and even getting the second or third guy on their board at the position could immediately become their best offensive lineman.

Rookie Dan Moore Jr. showed promise in his first season but still has a very long way to go. Meanwhile, Chukwuma Okorafor is set to hit free agency following the 2021 season and Zach Banner couldn’t even find his way back on the field when healthy.

While many fans are hoping the team goes with a quarterback here, Kenny Pickett and Matt Corral could be off the board, and the team knows they need to make the offensive line a priority.

Charles Cross is a big, athletic offensive lineman who was a former 5-star recruit. Cross still needs some time to develop, but Dan Moore’s former teammate is a much better prospect coming out and has the makings of a long-time starting left tackle.