Steelers Mock Draft: Free agency directly impacts Pittsburgh's 2024 draft strategy

Steelers mock draft round 6: Jordan Jefferson, DT, LSU

It would be somewhat concerning if the Steelers fail to address the need for a defensive tackle. Cam Heyward is coming back from injury, but he should not be expected to return to his previous form. Larry Ogunjobi failed to live up to his contract last season, but it is unknown about his future. Keeanu Benton is a quality piece in the trenches for Pittsburgh.

It seems like they could sign an upgrade during free agency, but that still has not happened upon writing this article. If they fail to add some quality depth or an upgrade over Ogunjobi, then this will remain a need. They could always neglect it this offseason if they can't make things work. If they can't sign a free agent, then expect them to at least add a depth piece in the draft.

It is not the strongest year to take an interior defensive lineman. Pittsburgh ends up taking Jordan Jefferson out of LSU. He made headlines during the week of the Senior Bowl. He lashed out after a contentious rep in practice and ripped off an offensive player's helmet. Jefferson then threw that player's helmet after that play ended.

It was an act of frustration, but Jefferson is someone who could have interest from the Steelers. He played most of his college career at West Virginia. That local connection is there, but he did transfer to LSU for his fifth-year senior season. He doesn't have great numbers in college, but he has a lot of strength that could mold him into a quality depth piece.

Others Considered: Dillon Johnson (RB), Tyrone Tracy (RB), Myles Murphy (DT)