Steelers mock draft: Pittsburgh finally opts to attack the trenches

Steelers mock draft round 2 (from Chicago): CB Joey Porter

This is the reason why the Steelers aced the Chase Claypool trade. The second-round pick (for a very average receiver) was already great but add in the fact the Bears now own the top pick in the draft, and Pittsburgh is essentially handed another first-round pick. They use that on a familiar name in Joey Porter Jr. out of Penn State.

The son of the legendary Steelers pass rusher, Porter has made a living as an outside cornerback at Penn State. He passes all of the physical tests, as he is 6’2 with great length and good athleticism. He excels in man coverage and can hold his own in a zone scheme. His technique needs to be refined, but he has all of the traits to be a starting cornerback in the league.

While some have him pegged as a first-round guy, he isn’t a completely ready prospect. While his speed is general athleticism is good, he doesn’t have great burst. He also isn’t a player that excels in run defense, a must for the Steelers defense. Finally, he hasn’t been a playmaker in college, as he has just one career interception.

To me, he is a fringe first-round prospect, especially in a draft loaded with some good cornerbacks. He’s going to need a few years to really hone his craft. That said, the Steelers should have players ahead of him that will allow him to earn his role. He is an enticing prospect with obvious ties to Pittsburgh.