10 draft prospects I'm crushing on for the Steelers this Valentine's Day
By Andrew Falce
Steelers draft day crush #9: Troy Franklin
Receiver isn’t the biggest need for this team. On the surface, a better third receiver would be logical. This team will likely move on from Allen Robinson and Calvin Austin proved that he isn’t more than a bit player. This means that a viable third target, and specifically a slot target, should be a big need.
With the emergence of the tight end room though and Arthur Smith’s offense that doesn’t heavily feature a slot receiver, this need could get pushed down. That hasn’t stopped me from falling in love with Troy Franklin’s body of work. So much so that he featured in my last mock draft.
Vincent helped turn Bo Nix into a potential first-round pick. He was a dynamic receiver who wore multiple hats. He has the size and speed to thrive on the outside but also showed a knack for making plays after the catch in the slot. He could play in either spot for the Steelers.
All things considered, it doesn’t seem likely that Franklin will end up with the Steelers. Taking a receiver in this draft is no longer a lock, and even if they do, it would be hard to justify taking one in the first round. Watch some of his tape though. Franklin has everything you want in a staring receiver in this league.