Steelers draft crush #7: Junior Colson
I’m not gung-ho that the Steelers need to draft a linebacker this year. Assuming Elandon Roberts and Cole Holcomb come back, they could form a viable duo at the position. Depth is needed, especially after the injuries, but you can probably get by without a top name being added to this room.
A name I love also doesn’t seem to fit what this defense needs. Junior Colson is a throwback type of linebacker. He has immense size and surprising athleticism, and he uses that to be an explosive run-defender. He sheds blocks and is explosive in the backfield on defense.
Where Colson lacks is as a coverage player. He can hold his own in zone defense, as his athleticism allows him to be a reactionary coverage player. That will likely be exploited at the next level, but it is at least something. His ability in man coverage isn’t as good, but he shows a willingness to make plays there.
Even though he doesn’t fit what this team needs, I can’t help but continue to see myself wanting to see him in a Steelers uniform. The run defense would make him an instant asset while the coverage ability can be worked on. They don’t build linebackers like him anymore, and his throwback style is appealing, to say the least.