Steelers 2022 mock draft emphasizes offensive needs

Steelers mock draft round 4: SS/ST Nick Cross

Maryland, 6’0”, 213 lbs., 4.34 40-yard

There’s something about Nick Cross’ game that says, ‘Steeler’. He’s a big, physical safety who clearly enjoys the role of enforcer.

In Maryland’s Cover 2 scheme, Cross was generally playing high but he’s the type of player who could thrive around the line of scrimmage. He has the speed for a good sideline to sideline game in run support. He’s a thumper who should excel in short-yardage situations. He could be used in his rookie season in that phase of the game to help the Steelers league last run defense. Cross can also bring it on the blitz and could have game wrecker potential if used properly.

In pass coverage, he plays the ball and not the receiver. He tracks the ball very well and can come from across the field to make a play. He shows good discipline when in zone coverage. While his hips are a little tight he should be able to handle most NFL tight ends. Cross also has added value as a defender as a special teams defender.

Cross had a great Combine leading all safeties with a blazing 4.36/40. He came in 4th with a 37.0″ vertical and 3rd with a 10’10” broad jump. In 2021 he had  66 tackles with 3.5 for a loss, 3.0 sacks, 2 pass deflections and 3 interceptions.

Terrell Edmunds’s contract is only for one year. Cross could be groomed in 2022 and has the potential to start if Edmunds doesn’t re-sign.