As we inch closer to the NFL Combine and free agency, we should soon have a clearer view of what the Pittsburgh Steelers wants and needs are this offseason. With so much ammo in the draft, though, there should be a youth infusion for this roster.
This mock goes contrary to popular opinion. All focus is on the Steelers landing a receiver in the first round, and for good reason. This team is in desperate need for pass catching help.
That said, this draft is deep at receiver on day two, and Mike McCarthy has historically done some damage with second and third-round options in the past.
Instead, in this three-round mock draft, the Steelers get creative, move around, and secure an absolute haul. As of right now, this would be an almost perfect way for the first three rounds to break.
The Pittsburgh Steelers find the perfect blend in this three round mock draft
Pittsburgh Steelers trade back in the first round
Starting things off with a bang, when the board breaks on PFF’s mock draft simulator, the two names I wanted to target are still on the board (I’ll disclose them below). Edge rusher Keldric Faulk is also there, and the Eagles come calling as they require pass-rush help.
In order to move back two spots, we acquire the Eagles' earlier third-round pick (selection 68th overall). In exchange, we give up one of our fourths. Well worth it when we still guarantee getting a top name on the board.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 1: Caleb Banks, DL, Florida
While defensive line in the first round in back-to-back drafts feels excessive, it shouldn’t. The best teams stockpile top defensive line talent, and those players get paid a premium on the open market for good reason.
Caleb Banks is also an absolute freak. While injuries last year and inconsistencies have been an issue, his ability to get off the line, beat blockers, and get to the quarterback at his size is remarkable.
If he goes to the right situation, he could become a legitimate top defensive lineman in terms of pass rush production. His run defense is more suspect, but he has the frame to dominate there if he can grow.
He wouldn’t need to be an every-down starter as a rookie. Cam Heyward should be back, while Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon will continue to grow as young starters. Banks can see snaps as a situational pass rusher while learning from Heyward in his rookie year. The need will be there next year with Heyward likely retired (and Benton potentially a free agent), so having a talent like Banks ready to step in is crucial.
My other name was Keyden Procter, who I think could slot in at guard as a rookie with the potential to play tackle if need be. He went off the board at pick 22 and wasn’t an option at the end of the day.
Pittsburgh Steelers trade up for a receiver
With so much ammo, I want to make sure I get the right receiver fit for this offense. We need a guy who runs sharp routes and finds ways to get open.
Early in the second round, we offer the Raiders a chance to acquire an extra third-round pick in order to move down in the second round. They accept. A lot of moving around, but it helps get the Steelers in the best position to add the right players.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 2: Omar Cooper, WR, Indiana
It is hard to dislike Omar Cooper’s tape. He has a good build, reliable hands, and runs sharp routes. He is one of those receivers who just knows how to get open.
He became a dependable target for Fernando Mendoza last year, and while Elijah Sarrett was the bigger name, I think Cooper profiles as the better professional.
He can line up outside or in the slot and has the frame to handle big hits over the middle of the field. He feels like a Keenan Allen-type. His athleticism won’t win him many fans, but he doesn’t need to burn people vertically to win.
He’s a guy who can quickly develop a rapport with whoever is the starting quarterback. While DK Metcalf will continue to be the top dog, Cooper can take advantage of single coverage and become a consistent target in the passing game.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 3: Gennings Dunker, OL, Iowa
Thankfully, the Steelers' primary need along the offensive line is along the interior, and those guys tend to drop in the draft. This means that they can get a guy who can develop into a capable starter in rounds three or four (even if they lack the top-end traits of an elite lineman).
Gennings Dunker is just that. Big and burly, Dunker uses his immense strength to bully defenders in the run game. He may be the strongest player in this draft class.
READ MORE: 3 trades Steelers can offer to try and pry C.J. Stroud from the Texans
Some of his technical details are rough around the edges, though, and he was consistently beaten as a tackler by speed rushers. Moving to guard should help with that.
I don’t think he has the ceiling of an elite guard, but I think he could profile as a Mason McCormick type – meaning he may never get the accolades of a top lineman, but he contributes as a good starter for a long time.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 3: Devin Moore, CB, Florida
Unless things radically change, I still expect the Steelers to want their outside cornerbacks long and tall. In particular, they should excel in man coverage as well.
Devin Moore might be the prototype this year for that.
He has all of the tools and traits to develop into a legitimate starting cornerback at some point, but he needs to prove that he can stay healthy. If he does, the sky is the limit for this gifted young defender.
Ideally, the Steelers will bring back either Asante Samuel Jr. or James Pierre, so the need for an immediate starting cornerback won’t be there. That gives Moore some time to learn the ropes and acclimate before taking on a larger role.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 3: Chris Brazzell, WR, Tennessee
As stated before, the receiver draft is loaded with talent on day two, so the Steelers capitalize by taking Chris Brazzell with their final pick. A tall, lean, and dynamic receiver, he would complement this room well.
His lanky frame and ability to make big plays harken back to George Pickens, and for those of you who wanted the Metcalf/Pickens combo last year, this is your best chance of getting it. Brazzell makes incredible catches and does damage from all over the field.
He isn’t as explosive as you would want, though, and his route running is sloppy. However, as a third or fourth option initially, he can pose a threat deep down the field while Metcalf and Cooper remain the primary targets for the passing game.