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5 top prospects the Steelers should trade up for in round two

By Michelle Kotts

TAMPA, FLORIDA - JANUARY 01: Boye Mafe #34 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers warms up during the 2020 Outback Bowl against the Auburn Tigers at Raymond James Stadium on January 01, 2020 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FLORIDA - JANUARY 01: Boye Mafe #34 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers warms up during the 2020 Outback Bowl against the Auburn Tigers at Raymond James Stadium on January 01, 2020 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /
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DeMarvin Leal (8)  Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
DeMarvin Leal (8)  Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

DeMarvin Leal: Dl, Texas A&M

Ok, There are a few defensive linemen options the Steelers could go with between that 36-41 selection. Travis Jones, Logan Hall, or Winfrey Perrion. Either which would be solid if they are still on the board at 52.

Now that said, DeMarvin was a very early favorite ahead of the combines, then quietly fell off most mock drafts and obviously out of the first round. Still, that does not mean Leal could not be a quality player. We know Mike Tomlin wanted a defensive lineman yet resigned himself that either the one he wanted would be off the board in the first round or because they were taking a quarterback, it was not a first-round option.

Well, Leal could be a great option. He’s 6’4” and 290 pounds. He rushes with a plan while his hands and feet work well together. However, he lacks a clear-cut position fit, and sometimes his pass rush lacks suddenness.

Nonetheless, put him on a defensive front with the likes of T.J Watt, Heyward, Wormley, Loudermilk, or Tuitt if he returns. Leal could wreak some havoc in offensive backfields. Plus, his addition would give the Steelers additional depth on the defense.

Bernhard Raimann Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
Bernhard Raimann Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports /

Bernhard Raimann : OT, Central Michigan

Now that the Steelers acquired Kenny Pickett, the next player they should take might be an additional offensive lineman. Obviously, you want to give Pickett or Trubisky the most protection possible and plow the road for Najee Harris.

There is no better way to accomplish that feat than taking one of the highest-rated offensive linemen remaining on the draft board. Also, he is 6’7” and 305 pounds. Nearly as big, though, not quite as big as Alejandro Villanueva, 6’9” 277 pounds, who protected Big Ben’s blindside for several seasons. Adding to his intrigue, he’s from Austria too. It’s a pick that makes much sense on many levels.

He plays with his eyes up and head back and has good use of hands while staying balanced and centered on blocks. Some analysts call him a sticky run blocker in that he stays attached to the block throughout the play. Downsides include opening his hips in pass protection with speed rushes, creating a soft outside corner.

With the additions, the Steelers made to the offensive line during the draft, plus the fact they have two starters coming off a rookie season,  the Steelers will have a nice young offensive line and even more needed depth. Plus, they will have options like moving Kendrick green to guard if needed.

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