Steelers make an unexpected splash trade at cornerback in latest 2023 mock draft

Steelers mock draft round 3: LB Daiyan Henley

Even though most hope the Steelers address linebacker early in the draft, that might not be a realistic expectation depending on how the board falls. The addition of Cole Holcomb and Elandon Roberts via free agency has taken this need off the hot seat in the first round or two. Pittsburgh gets lucky and Daiyan Henley falls to their third-round selection, which they use on him.

The Steelers have not spent a lot of time with Henley throughout the pre-draft process, which could bring this selection into question. Many do not believe that Henley will be here at this juncture of the event, so this could create a reason for an exception. He is a speedy linebacker that can cover when called upon and thump someone in the run game as well.

Steelers mock draft round 4: S Ji'Ayir Brown

Safety is another position that is taken off the front burner and put towards the back as free agency filled a need. Keanu Neal was signed to be a starting capable safety for this defense for the upcoming season. He was signed to a two-year contract, which normally means that he will play a good chunk of snaps.

Ji'Ayir Brown gets on another mock draft as he makes a ton of sense, especially at this point in the selection process. He could push Neal for the starting spot at strong safety on day one, but he could also play special teams and learn behind a starter as well. The Steelers were well represented at the Penn State pro day, and do not think for a second that they were only there to look at Joey Porter Jr.