5 players Steelers must select in the third day of the draft

Coby Bryant #7 of the Cincinnati Bearcats. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Coby Bryant #7 of the Cincinnati Bearcats. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) /
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Cincinnati Bearcats linebacker Darrian Beavers (0) Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports /

Steelers best fit #2

Linebacker isn’t the biggest need by any means, as the Steelers have their starters set for next year in Devin Bush and Myles Jack already. That said, neither are locked to be with the team past 2022, so finding a developmental option on day three makes sense. One of my bigger draft-day crushes has been Darrian Beavers, as the former Bearcat has some throwback appeal to his game that would be welcomed in this defense.

For starters, Beavers is a bit of a planet theory guy. He has immense size and moves well given his listed weight. He uses his speed to shoot through gaps, shed blockers, and make plays in the backfield. He can also blitz from the inside as well, further adding to his value on this defense. His coverage skills need some work, as he can be slow to react and struggle to get after his target once they begin their route.

He has the makings of more than just a two-down linebacker though. He can hold his own in zone coverage and can develop some in his man-to-man defense. His run-stopping ability will allow him to see the field early, and he should be able to develop into a competent starter. He would be a quality addition this late in the draft.