Steelers mock draft: Pittsburgh puts the focus back on the trenches

Steelers mock draft round 2: Phidarian Mathis

Defensive tackle, Alabama, 6’4”, 310 lbs.

Mathis draws double teams and can drive a single offensive lineman back into the QB. He has enough quickness to be used in stunts. He gets out of his stance and gets his hands on his assignment very quickly. He shows good hand use and leg drive. He can stack and shed blockers. His swim and rip moves are powerful and effective. He’s a tough run stuffer who can also bring some interior pass pressure. He’s also a high-energy player who shows good hustle when the play moves away from him.

Mathis has the power game to play nose tackle and is agile enough to play across the defensive line. He had 53 tackles with 7.5 for a loss, 7.0 sacks, 6 quarterback pressures, and 1 forced fumble playing in rotation in 2021. Mathis has been noted for his leadership and intangibles. He was voted permanent team captain for the 2021 season.

Like Linderbarm, Mathis is a player who can be inserted into the lineup his best fit would be nose tackle. Stephon Tuitt may not return due to personal and/or injury-related issues. If he doesn’t come back to the team Mathis could man his spot and either Montravius Adams or Tyson Alualu (if he’s still got the game) could hold down the middle.