5 draft prospects Steelers may be able to select at pick 20

Steelers could draft Gardner

Draft Network Rank: 20th overall

The Steelers outside cornerbacks were tested and burned in the Wildcard game. With Joe Haden likely out given his age, the team could realistically target a strong, man coverage outside cornerback. Ahmad Gardner, nicknamed “Sauce”, is one of the best coverage corners in this upcoming draft. He is an instinctual cornerback with good ball skills and coverage ability.

Since becoming a starter with the Bearcats, Gardner has essentially locked down whatever side of the field he was guarding. You can put him on an island and expect him to win regularly. The Steelers are severely lacking that in a cornerback right now. As well, he has the size and athleticism the team covets in a cornerback, further adding to his value to the team.

The biggest question the team may have with him is his level of competition. While the Bearcats have been one of the top college teams over the past few seasons, they don’t play in a notable conference. That said, Gardner has still faced off against some of the top talent and receivers that college has to offer. If the Steelers want to have their aggressive secondary again, Gardner would be a no-brainer at pick 20.