The Steelers have seemingly made the bulk of their free agency moves, and while a few straggling names could be brought in, this team likely has all eyes on the draft. With three high picks in this draft, the team should be able to land some quality talent that can start early on. While picking purely for need isn’t a great strategy, it can work out if the board falls correctly.
This draft sees the Steelers target the usual suspects to fill their needs. I’m not going to lie, I think it turns out pretty well. There are still weaknesses following this draft, but it lands some quality talent that can fill starting roles early and develop into key reserves later on. Here is my updated Steelers mock draft.
Steelers mock draft round 1: OT Broderick Jones
I am not overly convinced that the major addition to the offensive line is coming in this draft. With so many resources being used along the interior and plenty of needs elsewhere, it isn’t a lock that a lineman goes early. If the Steelers do opt for the offensive trenches, a tackle seems like a safe bet.
The Steelers have shown interest in two of the top three tackles, and I have them landing Broderick Jones in the first round. Let me be clear, there is a lot of projection with Jones as a prospect. He has the size you want in a pro tackle with the athleticism to go along with it. Despite this athleticism, he plays like a mauler and is constantly finishing plays.
His technique is rough at times, and he won too often with his power at the college level. He can also be too aggressive at times and get out of position. Add in a limited amount of starts and Jones will need some work in the pros.
He would land in a good spot though, as Pittsburgh has a pair of tackles that they can start while developing Jones. Andy Weidl has shown in the past that he will target trench players early and often, and Jones fits that bill. He can serve as a backup early on and develop into a starter. The sky is the limit for Jones though.