Ranking the entire Steelers undrafted rookie class

2. Trevor Downing, IOL, Iowa State

After landing a dynamic tackle in Broderick Jones in the first round, the Steelers needed to find some center help, preferably a backup center that can kick to guard in a pinch. They drafted Spencer Bradford with their last pick to hopefully do just that, but Trevor Downing will also likely throw his hat into the ring for the spot.

Downing has experience at all three interior spots and played his best ball at center. He is an average athlete with mediocre size, but he is a smart blocker who uses leverage well and has the experience to combat interior linemen. His extensive play at center and ability to kick to guard should make him a versatile backup in the mold of Doug Legursky.

I doubt Downing ever moves past versatile backup, but he has the tape and tenacity to carve out a role there. His lack of size and athleticism will limit his potential, but being a multifaceted backup could keep him around for a while in the league. I like his tape, it isn’t flashy, but he seems like a refined blocker. That is exactly what you want in a backup.