With the Senior and East-West Shrine Bowls out of the way, the pre-draft process is done with game tape. They will turn towards the NFL Combine and pro days to scout players and try to get to know the incoming crop of rookies. The Steelers remained active at both bowl games, and some signs point to them improving specific positions.
Dissecting what's valued this far from the draft is difficult. Expect the Steelers to have an active free agency as they try to right the ship. The outcome of their signings could directly affect which positions they target in their selection process. Many things could change going forward that will determine the alterations of future mock drafts.
Steelers trade back with Ravens in Round 1 of mock draft!
As the Steelers wait their turn in Round 1, an unsuspecting caller dials their number.
Baltimore calls Pittsburgh to see if they are willing to move back. None of the top players fall to their original selection in this mock draft. They listen to the Raven's offer and continue the dialogue. Their final proposal forces Pittsburgh's hand. They trade back and gain a significant haul of picks in return.
Steelers mock draft round 1(via Ravens): Jack Bech, WR, TCU
While it was nice to trade back and get some extra draft picks, they lost some other options who were on their board. They select Jack Bech to secure a receiver in a light class at the position. While he had a terrific week at the Senior Bowl, it is a little rich taking him in Round 1. Expect the Steelers to try and sign a top receiver in free agency, but Bech is a solid backup plan.
Steelers mock draft round 2: Azareye'h Thomas, CB, Florida State
Going from one Senior Bowl standout to another as we move from Bech to Azareye'h Thomas.
The Florida State product was sticky in coverage at the Senior Bowl. Pittsburgh must have a backup plan at cornerback rather than just hoping Cory Trice is a solid starter. Taking Thomas adds competition for Trice. It also brings security in case Joey Porter Jr. continues to struggle. Thomas is the perfect style of player the Steelers are searching for.
Steelers mock draft round 3: Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky
If you paid attention to the Senior Bowl, you know the Steelers watched the defensive linemen closely. Deone Walker spoke to Mike Tomlin on the sideline on a few occasions. The Steelers have an interest in the mountain of a prospect. Walker would be a perfect fit in Pittsburgh as they attempt to get younger in the trenches.
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Steelers mock draft round 3 (via Ravens): Devin Neal, RB, Kansas
The earlier deal with the Ravens keeps adding rewards. Devin Neal should go around the late third to the early rounds on day three. He had a solid week at the Senior Bowl and fits what the Steelers want. He is a big back who provided consistent production during his time with Kansas. Najee Harris is leaving in free agency, and Neal would be a great replacement.
Steelers mock draft round 4: Willie Lampkin, OL, North Carolina
It's hard not to ignore some similarities between Willie Lamkin and Zach Frazier. Both had solid weeks at the Senior Bowl. Plus, they are undersized guys who used to wrestle. Lampkin is lighter than what Frazier was coming out of last year's draft. Pittsburgh adds another interior offensive lineman who can play guard or center at the next level.
Steelers mock draft round 4 (via Ravens): Aeneas Peebles, DT, Virginia Tech
Double-dipping along the defensive line in a strong draft class is a great idea.
The Steelers took Walker earlier in this mock draft, but Pittsburgh wanted to add depth. They take Aeneas Peebles, who could develop into a quality role player for the club. He has enough tools to work with, which provide a high ceiling. Peebles would be a depth player to start his career. He could become a starting-caliber player in the future.
Steelers mock draft round 5: Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
The Senior Bowl theme around this mock draft wraps up this potential class.
Trying to solve the riddle at the quarterback position won't be situated this offseason for the Steelers. Unless Justin Fields or Russell Wilson finds another gear, this weak crop of rookie quarterbacks won't change anything. Jalen Milroe had a terrible week at the Senior Bowl and saw his draft stock tank. He's worth a gamble late in the draft with the number of skills he possesses.