2023 NFL Mock Draft: Insane run on quarterbacks has Steelers going defense

17. Pittsburgh Steelers select: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

Finally, the Steelers have their turn to select in the first round and they have some interesting options available. They take Devon Witherspoon out of Illinois as he can be seen as the top cornerback in this draft class. He has everything you look for in a corner with the type of size, swagger, and physicality and brings with his game.

Most believe that Joey Porter Jr. would be the likely pick if the cornerback is the position taken in the first round. It makes sense as the obvious connections are there between the player and the organization. It would also make sense for the black and gold to turn towards the secondary spot if they have the pick of the group at 17.

Trading back could also be an option as many teams will want to move up to select certain prospects that are falling to this point. The Steelers should listen to those calls and potentially trade back if another club is willing to make an interesting offer. They stay put in this mock draft and take Witherspoon to become their top cornerback on defense.

Pittsburgh’s defense has been missing a top cornerback since Joe Haden departed the team. Even if Cam Sutton is re-signed, this club will likely try to address this position at some point in the offseason. The track record of the black and gold for drafting and developing talent via their draft selections for the cornerback position might not be high but Witherspoon should be able to turn that around.