There is a clear reason the Pittsburgh Steelers and many other teams view Makai Lemon as a legitimate first-round option. He is an elite talent, making him an appealing target. However, recent comments from expert draft analyst Todd McShay have raised new questions about his draft stock.
"The fact of the matter is talking to general managers around the league, the interview process is going a lot better for the other two, [Jordyn] Tyson and [Carnell] Tate, then it is for Makai Lemon," McShay commented.
The other two receivers among the top three prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft seem highly rated on the Steelers’ board. If any of the three — Lemon, Tate, or Tyson — fall within striking distance, Pittsburgh is expected to explore trading up to secure one. The organization is determined to avoid repeating past mistakes at the receiver position and is focused on finding a solution.
McShay’s recent comments could negatively impact Lemon’s draft stock, casting the prospect in an unfavorable light.
Struggling in interviews at the NFL Combine is not uncommon and, by itself, is not a major concern. However, it does increase the importance of Lemon demonstrating strong character and a positive presence throughout the remainder of the pre-draft process. Failing to do so could reinforce the concerns raised by McShay.
Pittsburgh Steelers draft target WR Makai Lemon could fall to 21 if recent reports are accurate
Taking a receiver in the upcoming draft feels like an obvious move for the Steelers. They need a starter and additional depth at the position. Free agency will shape some of their decisions, but with twelve picks going into the event, they could easily use that capital for a trade. Lemon remains one of the top receivers in the class, and some analysts even rank him as the best.
His recent combine misstep, however, may change a few opinions.
"There are teams out there that I've talked to that appreciated what they got out of the interviews from Jordyn Tyson and Carnell Tate then they did with Makai Lemon," said McShay.
His viral press conference at the NFL Combine was an awkward moment, but it wasn't disastrous. However, the way Lemon carried himself throughout the event did little to strengthen his case and may have even hurt it. Ultimately, talent remains the primary factor. While McShay’s reporting should draw attention, it is unlikely to significantly damage Lemon’s chances of being selected in the top half of the first round.
McShay said about Lemon, "His play is that of a (expletive). His play going over the middle, breaking tackles, the toughness, the blocking is that of a grinder."
These recent remarks from one of the most respected NFL draft evaluators could create challenges for Lemon if those perceptions persist.
The former Trojan may not have had the best combine, but his draft stock still appears out of Pittsburgh’s range. The Steelers would likely need to execute a significant trade to acquire him. However, McShay’s comments could bring him slightly closer to realistic striking distance.