As different needs are addressed at the start of free agency, new possibilities have emerged for the Pittsburgh Steelers' draft plans. While most mock drafts still project the team adding more talent at wide receiver, other unexpected roster needs should not be overlooked. Investing in the trenches has long been a priority for the Steelers, and that approach could once again shape their draft strategy.
The unexpected injury news to offensive tackle Broderick Jones could completely alter their plans.
Jones has a neck injury that could keep him out for an extended period. If that is the case, and there is an opportunity to miss regular-season games, the Steelers would be smart to add a solid tackle early in the upcoming NFL Draft or in free agency.
Adding to the offensive line should be near the top of the to-do list for Pittsburgh. They have a giant hole at left guard, and could have a more pressing issue at left tackle, barring Jones's status. Even when the former first-rounder is healthy, he hasn't lived up to his billing. In Daniel Jeremiah's latest mock draft, he has Pittsburgh adding an offensive tackle to help ease some concerns.
Pittsburgh Steelers select OT Blake Miller in Daniel Jeremiah's latest Mock Draft
Jeremiah, NFL Network’s draft expert, has the Steelers selecting Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller. Adding a player of his caliber at that spot would be a reasonable move, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Jones and his long-term outlook. That concern is the driving force behind Jeremiah’s projection, as it could necessitate reshuffling parts of the offensive line.
"With [Blake] Miller in the fold, Troy Fautanu could move to the blind side in Jones' place, thus clearing a spot for the rookie at RT," Jeremiah wrote.
If the Steelers add an offensive lineman, they would be wise to target a prospect with experience at left tackle. With Jones potentially leaving a void at the position, shifting Troy Fautanu into that role could be risky.
Jeremiah presents an intriguing plan for Pittsburgh to consider, but drafting Miller only to move Fautanu out of position could ultimately weaken the offensive line rather than strengthen it.
Jones has shown signs of struggle throughout his career, and his injury could set him back even further. The Steelers’ other first-round tackle, Troy Fautanu, has followed a very different trajectory. After suffering an injury that ended his rookie season, he rebounded with a promising year. The right tackle proved he can be a reliable contributor and has the potential to develop into an elite player.
If the goal is to find an upgrade over Jones, the Steelers would be better served by drafting a proven left tackle with experience at the position.
Miller played the majority of his snaps at Clemson on the right side of the offensive line. Unless he can successfully transition to left tackle, Jeremiah’s projection becomes less appealing. While the mock draft presents an interesting contingency plan if Jones is sidelined long-term, moving Fautanu could disrupt something that is already working for Pittsburgh.