Steelers Post-Combine Mock Draft: Massive readjustments made in the trenches
As the NFL Combine concludes, fans of the Steelers start to recognize how close the NFL Draft is getting. There will be plenty of talented prospects coming out of the event this year and Pittsburgh has plenty of needs that have to be filled. Free agency will be a part of the process for filling those voids, but the draft is always a big part of the offseason.
Currently, the Steelers have needs at center, right tackle, cornerback, slot cornerback, defensive tackle, quarterback, and linebacker.
There are other pressing issues, but those positions are the biggest concerns right now. Free agency will affect who the Steelers draft based on who they sign, but we go forward with this mock draft not knowing that information. With the 2024 NFL Combine in the books, here's what I have Pittsburgh doing in my latest seven-round Steelers mock draft.
Amarius Mims. Amarius Mims. player. . . Amarius Mims. . Offensive tackle. 1. 527
Steelers mock draft round 1: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia
Starting round one here with a popular pick. Amarius Mims is a raw talent coming out of Georgia. He is coming off tightrope surgery, which is the same procedure that Kenny Pickett had done last season. The Steelers are familiar with that and should be able to find comfort in Pickett's progress in his recovery. Mims is healthy and will participate in the NFL Combine.
Right tackle needs an upgrade after Chuks Okorafor became a cap casualty a couple of weeks ago. Broderick Jones took over as the starter on the right side, but he needs to find a way back to his more comfortable side. The Steelers traded up in last year's draft to have him as their left tackle, and that means an upgrade on the right side needs to happen.
Mims has not started a ton of games in college, both from working his way up at Georgia and missing with an injury this past season. He is raw, but the incredible athleticism that he brings with his game will get him in the first round.
Mims has a lot of talent and that was evident when he dropped jaws at the NFL Combine. Mims would be a good start to any draft class for the Steelers. The question now is whether or not he even makes it to the 20th overall pick after impressing in Indianapolis.