Steelers 2022 mock draft emphasizes offensive needs

Steelers mock draft 2: WR, Christian Watkins

North Dakota St.,  6’4”, 208 lbs., 4.36 40-yard (Pro Day)

This entry could just as well read, ‘best available wide receiver’. So, if Christian Watson isn’t there, George Pickens and Jalen Tolbert would do just fine.

Watson has received high marks for his character and locker room presence. He comes from an NFL bloodline with his father, Tazim Wajid Wajed (formerly Tim Watson), having a five year career.

His stat line isn’t that extensive but he was still growing into his frame early in his college career. He steadily improved his game and had an impact as a wide receiver, runner, and kick returner.

As a receiver, Watson is tall, very fast, and has some route-running skills. He has the speed to blow the top off defenses and pick up big yards after the catch.  His hands are good but he has a tendency for concentration drops. His stats in that regard have improved from year to year.

Watson said he’s constantly working on his route running as well as his pass-catching and should improve, greatly, with NFL coaching. In pass blocking he works hard and though the snap. His technique could use some work but his blocks are generally effective. It’s obvious he takes his blocking responsibilities seriously.

He was a valuable weapon as runner. He was brought on jet sweeps, quite a bit, and even ran from the halfback position. His running style is fluid but could use more power. His kick return game is solid, though he probably won’t be called to do much of that in the NFL.

In 52 games, Watson had 105 catches for 2140 at 20.4 yards per catch and 14 TDs. He ran 49 times for 392 yards with a  8.0 yard average and 2 TDs. He had 26 kick returns for 686 yards at 26.4 yards per and 2 TDs. Watson should be able to step in and immediately challenge Anthony Miller and Miles Boykin for WR3. The sky’s the limit with his potential.