The Pittsburgh Steelers need to ace this draft, and all of that starts in the first round. As of now, the team could select a multitude of positions. Defensive line is the biggest need, while Quarterback could be the biggest temptation.
You also can’t discount receiver or safety, as the team has shown some interest in the top names at those respective positions. Heck, there is even speculation that running back will be the pick atop of the draft.
Simply put, there is no telling what this team will do.
However, if you follow the early signs, the defensive line appears to be a safe bet for the team. There is a massive hole in the starting room there, and while the bread crumbs haven’t been as clear as other first round picks in years past.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could be in for a perfect first round
The two most obvious names at defensive line are Kenneth Grant and Derrick Harmon, with Walter Nolen a distant third. Nolen is a good prospect, but his lack of length and general size make him a better fit for a 4-3 front.
If you have followed recent trends, we have seen the general consensus drop both Harmon and Walker to the late portion of round one, and even into the top of round two. For a Steelers team that needs draft picks, this could play out perfectly.
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Assuming the defensive line falls, a logical conclusion since this class is so deep, Pittsburgh can orchestrate a trade back and still land a top prospect. This could easily net them another third-round pick, or even a second depending on how far back they go.
Who would move up? Perhaps a team in need of a receiver, or even a running back. You never know who will fall and who will want to move up.
Moving back could then still yield a top defensive lineman. Harmon could come in as a traditional end, while Grant would play nose tackle and kick Keeanu Benton out to end.
While time will tell if these players actually fall, right now it looks like a desperate Steelers team can pick up another draft pick and still get a starting defensive lineman. If that ultimately unfolds on draft night, Pittsburgh would be all the better for it.