3 options for Steelers in first 3 rounds of the 2022 NFL Draft
Steelers round 2 options:
Most people will be clamoring for Pittsburgh to go offensive linemen in round 1. If they don’t nearly everyone will be expecting a lineman in round 2. I think that is probably where they will go. However, there are some intriguing prospects I think the Steelers may target in round 2 before an offensive lineman.
To be fair, this is a deeper class in terms of blockers. There is also a decent amount of options in free agency to supplement the line as well. That is why Pittsburgh could be going in a different direction in round 2.
First option ILB Christian Harris:
I believe this is the second year in a row the Steelers drafted someone with the last name Harris from Alabama. Christian Harris is a true 3-down linebacker which is something the Steelers don’t have. Bush and Schobert both do well in pass coverage yet struggle to get off of blocks.
Robert Spillane is better at getting off of blocks yet still leaves a lot to be desired. Christain Harris provides quality in both areas while he doesn’t necessarily excel at either. He was versatile enough to play as the MIKE and the WILL linebacker in Nick Saban’s defense. That’s all you really need to know.
Second option OT Trevor Penning:
Trevor Penning is an interesting prospect at the tackle spot for Pittsburgh. I actually had his UNI teammate Spencer Brown mocked to Pittsburgh last year in the 3rd round. Penning is probably the top tackle prospect in college amongst seniors. However, a plethora of talented underclassmen in this year’s draft cause him to fall and Pittsburgh can make the safe play here if other options are off of the table.
Third option CB Kyler Gordon:
The Steelers could surprise a ton of people by nabbing a very athletic inside-outside corner. Gordon is only 6 ft tall but has good length. The Washington product brings a good combination of speed, agility, and explosiveness.
He would help clear up less than certain cornerback situation with the only guarantee being Cam Sutton. While Ahkello Witherspoon will likely be brought back the Steelers still need a better option as the 3rd man in their nickel sets. Gordon could help settle the cornerback room for years to come.