Steelers mock draft round 3: Sedrick Van Pran-Granger, C, Georgia
Sedrick Van Pran-Granger didn't test as a very explosive athlete at the NFL Combine experience, but that could work as an advantage for the Steelers who can take the Georgia center in Round 3. Van Pran also pulled out of the Senior Bowl last minute, which disappointed many. If he could have gone and had a good week at the event, he could have moved up draft boards. The Combine is the latest offseason event to hurt his draft stock.
With Mason Cole becoming a cap casualty, the Steelers realize the problem they currently face at center. With that in mind, this mock draft hasn't completely gone to plan for the black and gold. They wanted Frazier or Powers-Johnson but that didn't happen. They could have felt pressure to take Van Pran-Granger in Round 2, but that feels too rich.
That paid off as they were still able to get their guy in the third round of the draft. The Steelers made a huge gamble because, after this prospect, the others behind him are not considered as high quality as the top three. Pittsburgh gets a starting center on day one, and someone that was considered the top center in this class at one point in time.
Van Pran-Granger has held a starting role on the Georgia offensive line since his sophomore season. He has only conceded one sack during his three years of starting for the Bulldogs. The Steelers would have three Bulldogs on their offensive line. That should help them all grow and allow their chemistry from college to carry over to the NFL.