East-West Shrine Bowl: Top players for the Steelers to watch

Luke Schoonmaker could replace Zach Gentry late in the draft

Tight end is another quiet position of need for the Steelers during the offseason. Connor Heyward is back and so is Pat Freiermuth, but Zach Gentry is currently scheduled to become a free agent soon. Pittsburgh would like to re-sign Gentry as their best blocking tight end, but there might not be enough money to go around.

Oddly enough, Gentry and Jake Schoonmaker have comparable stats coming out of Michigan. They both had low production at the collegiate level as a receiver and could not accomplish an all-around game. One of the biggest things that Schoonmaker will need to show in the East-West Shrine Bowl event is his blocking ability.

The Steelers could look to replace a Gentry type with someone that reminds them of him in Schoonmaker. He is a big guy that needs work to develop at the next level. He could become a solid addition to the run blocking department as long as he gets the proper coaching in Pittsburgh.

Right now, this prospect is projected to be a mid to late round selection, and this would not be the worst way for the black and gold to use one of their day three selections. Getting a developmental tight end to come in and stay at your third spot on your depth chart is good value. That will give Heyward more responsibilities in year two.