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Kenny Pickett gets his guy in latest Steelers mock draft with trades

By Ryan Pawloski

Nov 11, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Jordan Addison (3) following the victory against the Colorado Buffaloes at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 11, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Jordan Addison (3) following the victory against the Colorado Buffaloes at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Defensive lineman Siaki Ika #62 of the Baylor Bears reacts during the first half. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images)
Defensive lineman Siaki Ika #62 of the Baylor Bears reacts during the first half. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images) /

2.32: Siaki Ika, DT, Baylor

Getting a big player in the middle of the trenches on the defensive side of the ball might be a more pressing need than the offensive line. The offensive group at least has every starter returning for next season whereas the defensive unit does not. There could be a lot of turnover next to Cam Heyward and drafting Siaki Ika would be a great choice at pick 32.

The strength and athleticism that Ika possess at his size is impressive. He projects to be an immediate impact player at the Nose tackle position in the NFL. The Steelers could use that to stop their woes against the oppositions rushing offense. Bringing in Ika for the first two downs and having DeMarvin Leal come onto the field in situational third down pass plays would be a dream.

2.51: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

Darnell Wright played on the right side at Tennessee and that is probably where he will end up. He did not allow a sack this season with the Volunteers and showed some great ability in run blocking as well. Wright has played both sides of the tackle position at the collegiate level, so the Steelers will have some options after making this pick.

Dan Moore Jr. is probably the weakest link on the offensive line when it comes to pass protection. Kevin Dotson is a close second, but having Wright come in and battle for one of the starting tackle spots would be the wise decision here. Sliding Moore into guard could give him a better opportunity to use his athleticism to remain inside instead of getting beat by bending edge rushers.

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