3 NFL Draft prospects Steelers could target from HBCU schools

FAMU offensive lineman Keenan Forbes (77) sits on the sideline during the Orange Blossom Classic between the Rattlers and Jackson State at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. on Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021.Orange Blossom Classic 090521 Ts 3243
FAMU offensive lineman Keenan Forbes (77) sits on the sideline during the Orange Blossom Classic between the Rattlers and Jackson State at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. on Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021.Orange Blossom Classic 090521 Ts 3243 /
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Steelers
T.J. Watt #90 of the Pittsburgh Steelers. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /

Tyrell Goodwin, DL South Carolina State

Rushing the passer was one of Pittsburgh’s strengths last season. Their fifty-three sacks finished first in the defensive rankings. At the end of the season, T.J Watt was crowned as the NFL’s regular-season sack record holder. Keith Butler’s defensive front performed well in passing situations but failed to respond the same against opposing running backs.

On December 9th, 2021, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings met on the field of U.S Bank Stadium. The stage was set for a Thursday night matchup between two of the league’s most historic teams. When the Minnesota offense took the field, the dynamic of the game changed.

Dalvin Cook’s unexpected appearance changed the course of the night’s events. Instead of relying on Kirk Cousins to move the offense downfield, Klint Kubiak decided to let Dalvin cook up. Minnesota’s rushing attack became too much for the Steelers’ defense and eventually, the game was out of reach. Cook finished the night with two hundred and five more yards to add to his season total.

T.J Watt is one of the league’s best edge rushers, but he cannot help the Steelers against the inside run. After cutting ties with Javon Hargrove in 2020, the Steelers need a solid defensive lineman.

South Carolina State’s Tyrell Goodwin could be a fit. When asked who his favorite football was, Goodwin’s answer spoke volumes about his work ethic. His six-foot 285 lbs frame resembles that of Aaron Donald, someone Goodwin aspires to be as good as. His interview with NFL Blitz’s Alex Khvatov, let teams across the league get an early introduction from a potential NFL rookie. Hard work and determination hold up the foundation of his character. “My motor carries me a lot, I play hard.”

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Large amounts of talent will be in the HBCU NFL draft class of 2022. While front offices around the league prepare to evaluate their next franchise player, athletes from schools across America continue to work hard with hopes of reaching their goals. Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers will have some things to discuss as the off-season continues. If the team is searching for the young talent they should explore their options.