Steelers mock draft: Pittsburgh digs their heels in for a cornerback early

Steelers mock draft round 7: WR Jayden Reed

It would almost be a little surprising if the Steelers waited this long in the draft to select a wide receiver. However, it’s important to remember that this team will be getting fourth-rounder Calvin Austin back and that Pittsburgh could choose to target the position in free agency instead.

At this point in the draft, the Steelers would simply be hoping for a receiver who could crack their final roster (much like Mark Robinson was able to this year at the linebacker position). Michigan State’s Jayden Reed is a shifty receiver who can create separation and make defenders miss after the catch. Pittsburgh could use another receiver like this to add to Kenny Pickett’s arsenal.

Steelers mock draft round 7 (via DEN): OT Zion Nelson

I’ve got to admit, I wouldn’t be thrilled if the Pittsburgh Steelers elected to wait to address the offensive tackle position with their final pick in the draft. But as I pointed out earlier, Mike Tomlin could be pleased enough with the progress of Dan Moore to go a different route early in April’s draft. This doesn’t mean that the team should ignore the position altogether.

If the Steelers are to take an offensive tackle late on day three, Zion Nelson would make sense. Nelson is an outstanding athlete at 6’5” and 315” pounds. He would compete for a role as Pittsburgh’s swing tackle and would give them an insurance policy in the event of an injury at the position.