Steelers 7-round mock draft: OL and LB rebuilt instead of QB

Steelers round 2:

While many are clamoring for the Steelers to go heavy on offensive linemen in this draft, I don’t expect that to be the case. My guess is the team grabs a free agent and drafts a starter with maybe an additional pick used for depth. That means the defense has to become the focus, as both the run and pass defense became an issue for this team. With Joe Schobert likely out the door and so many questions surrounding the inside linebacker position, it could become an earlier drafted position than some expect.

Darrian Beavers is just the type of linebacker that the Steelers should covet. He was a great run defender while with the Bearcats and enters the draft with a slew of experience. He has great size (something that this group is lacking) and the ability to read an offense. He uses his size and athleticism to make his way and shed through would-be blockers en route to the runner.

While run defense will be his natural calling card, he isn’t just a two-down linebacker. He has the functional athleticism to cover in zone defense and his size makes him a powerful blitzer. There will be a catch-up period as he faces against some bigger blockers, but he should be an instant-run defender and long-term starter. Think Vince Williams but bigger, faster, and better in coverage. He would be a perfect addition in the second round.