*** 2013 Official Pittsburgh Steelers Off & ON Season Thread *** (3 Viewers)

[Leeroy Jenkins]

I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Hey, we don't need an olb to run 40 yards. Get that quick step and meet at the qb 5-10 yards away.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Ton of talent out there at need positions still. Safeties out the wazoo, several WRs, couple running backs, some ILB prospects, all 3 of the top NTs, all but 1 TE. LOTS of guys left that can really help. Now, let's hope for a QB run.

Have to figure at least 2, if not 3, QBs get taken relatively soon. Assume the run on rushers and DBs will continue as well, so the Damontre Moores and Cypriens likely go quickly. Maybe a CB or two from the next rung drop early in the round. I expect at least one of the RBs goes in the top ten too.

Not saying I agree with the rankings, but here's nfl.com's top 20 remaining players:

Lacy, RB

Geno, QB

Cyprien, S

Watson, OL

Carradine, DL

Nassib, QB

Brown, LB

J. Taylor, CB

J. Williams, NG

Te'o, LB

Minter, LB

Hunter, WR

Allen, WR

Swearinger, S

Hunt, DL

Barkley, QB

Ertz, TE

C. Washington, OLB

Armstead, OT

Gio, RB

For the hell of it....Top 16 teams and potential targets:

Jags: QB

Niners: No idea

Eagles: QB?

Lions: Defense. DB maybe?

Bengals: S/RB

Cardinals: RB

Jets: QB/maybe Pass Rusher?

Titans: No idea

Bills: WR? LB?

Raiders: ??

Bucs: DL

Panthers: WR

Chargers: Should probably go OL again, but won't

Bills: Whatever they don't hit with the 9th pick

Cowboys: After taking the C, who the hell knows?

Pitty: ....

Were I betting on it, I'd say potential BPA looks like either WR, LB or DB. Steeler can use all three sooo....they should be in pretty good shape.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Hey, we don't need an olb to run 40 yards. Get that quick step and meet at the qb 5-10 yards away.

Yep, I think he starts by next opening day at the latest and is a 7-10 year starter at OLB.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Yeah, they whole "4.9" thing is overblown. He had a bad workout. He isn't a 4.9 player. Harrison and Woodley both were in the range you mention, yes. Suggs also ran a bad forty at his PD, if memory serves. Anyone think he's a 4.85 guy now? It was one workout.

The only real negative I've seen blurbing anywhere about JJ that weren't the knee-jerk "stenosis!!" or "he ran a bad 40!!" reactions was someone expressing concern that he'll be 24 soon. Given the typical progression of Steeler LBs, I can see why someone may feel that way, but they also need to remember that most of the LBs who take a few years to shine are DE converts. Jones is already a space player. His timeline should be expedited because of that, you would think.

 

[geneyus]

Here's the scouting report from WalterFootball. Agree that the 40 time is a bit misleading, this cat is explosive.

Strengths:

• Fabulous edge pass-rusher
• Fast off the edge
• Instincts
• Great pursuit linebacker
• Lives in the backfield
• Constant source of pass pressure
• Consistently produces splash plays
• Excellent at stripping the ball out for forced fumbles
• Skilled at shedding blocks
• Chases running backs down from the backside
• Has some pass-coverage potential
• Great motor
• Experience against double-teams
• Disruptive
• Causes havoc behind the line of scrimmage
• Uses hands well
• Can use his hands and feet at the same time
• Plays with good leverage
• Pad level
• Quickness
• Scheme versatility
• Should be able to play immediately

Weaknesses:

• Not a hard worker
• Timed slow
• Needs to add strength
• Can miss some tackles
• Can struggle with runs straight at him

Summary: Jones was one of the best pass-rushers in college football over the last two seasons and dominated the SEC, the nation's strongest conference. He started out his career at USC before a neck injury caused the Trojans staff to tell him to quit football. Other doctors disagreed and Jones transferred to Georgia. After sitting out a season, he took the SEC by storm in 2011.

Jones tied for fifth in the nation in sacks with 13.5 that year. The sophomore also had 70 tackles with 19.5 tackles for a loss, two passes broken up and two forced fumbles. His season was highlighted with a four-sack game against Florida.

Despite all the teams sending double-teams his direction in 2012, Jones was even better as a junior; he led the nation in sacks, forced fumbles and tackles for a loss. Jones totaled 85 tackles, 14.5 sacks, 24.5 tackles for a loss, seven forced fumbles, three passes broken up and one interception on the season. He had a string of dominating performances while missing the Kentucky game with a knee injury and didn't look the same against South Carolina, but bounced back in late October.

Jones had a game for the ages in Week 2 against Missouri. He stepped up with huge plays to help lead the Bulldogs to a win. Jones had nine tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, a pass batted and an interception returned 21 yards to the goal line. The turnovers he created came late in the game and sealed the win for Georgia.

Once again, Jones dominated Florida and carried the Bulldogs to a win that secured them a spot in the SEC Championship. He had 13 tackles, 4.5 tackles for a loss, three sacks, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery against the Gators. Late in the fourth quarter Florida was driving for a game-tying touchdown, but Jones made the game-saving play with a forced fumble on a tackle from behind on tight end Jordan Reed at the Georgia 5-yard line. The Bulldogs recovered for the win.

In the SEC Championship Game against Alabama, Jones notched two sacks and a forced fumble. His sack-fumble was a phenomenal play on which he beat blocks from right tackle D.J. Fluker and running back Eddie Lacy to take down A.J. McCarron. Jones picked up another coverage sack later, but the Crimson Tide had a lot of success running straight at him. It was an ugly game for Jones as a run-defender. He finished his collegiate career strong with two sacks against Nebraska.

Jones should be a pass-rushing demon and a phenomenal edge-rusher in the NFL. He fires up field off the snap and is extremely hard for offensive linemen to get a hold of. Jones has good hands to fight off blocks with moves to get around linemen. While he isn't a power player, he uses some functional strength along with his athleticism to shed blocks.

Jones is a heat-seeking missile in pursuit. He is great at chasing down quarterbacks and running backs from behind. Jones is always cognizant of the ball and does a great job of slapping it out to force turnovers. He was a sack-fumble machine in college. While Jones does not have blazing speed, he is football fast and that was clear with how he dominated the SEC.

There are a few areas Jones needs to improve for the pros. He needs more strength to hold up against runs that come directly at him. That would also help him to avoid some missed tackles.

Scouts at the East-West Shrine told WalterFootball.com that Jones would slide on draft day because it was their belief he would test poorly before the draft and isn't a hard worker in the weight room. The scouts said that watching the game tape, Jones is worthy of being a high first-round pick, but they didn't feel he will go that high. That prediction was validated in the months to come. Jones declined to work out at the Combine and had an ugly showing at his pro day with a terrible 40-yard dash time between 4.9 and 5.0 seconds.

WalterFootball.com spoke with scouts who were in attendance at the pro day, and they said he did well in the linebacker drills, but really struggled in the timed tests. Scouts said that Jones isn't a bad teammate or a bad guy, but he isn't a guy who coaches will love during the week because he doesn't put in a lot of work. However, scouts said they loved the way he showed up on game day.

Jones could be an elite pass-rusher at the next level. If he goes to a good organization and coaching staff that can motivate him, he could be an absolute force. If Jones lands with a bad team that has frequent coaching changes and instability, there is the potential for him to not pan out. With the workout concerns and the neck injury, he could easily fall to the middle of the first round.

Player Comparison: James Harrison/Von Miller. It was a tough call between Harrison and Miller. Harrison, Miller and Jones are all tremendous pass-rushers off the edge. Jones and Miller (6-3, 245) are nearly identical in size, but Jones isn't as fast or explosive as Miller. Jones' speed off the edge is more similar to Harrison (6-0, 242). Jones could turn into a dangerous pass-rusher off the edge like these star NFL linebackers.

NFL Matches: Detroit, Arizona, New York Jets, New Orleans, St. Louis, Pittsburgh

There are a number of teams that could consider Jones in the first round, and a surprise team could easily snatch him up. It wouldn't be a big surprise if a playoff team like Atlanta, Houston or San Francisco trades up for him.

The earliest that Jones could hope to go is to Detroit with the fifth-overall pick. The Lions need to add talent at outside linebacker, and they also have to replace their best edge-rusher after losing Cliff Avril. Jones coming off the edge would be a nice complement to Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley.

The Cardinals (No. 7) and Jets (No. 9) both need to upgrade their edge rush. Jones would be a good fit in either team's 3-4 defense. However, it looks more likely that Jones will fall out of the top 10.

New Orleans at No. 15 makes a lot of sense. The Saints need an edge-rusher for their change to the 3-4. Jones could easily go to New Orleans.

The Rams also need outside linebacker help, so their pick at No. 16 could be used to take Jones.

The lowest that Jones should fall is to the Steelers at No. 17. They need to replace Harrison, and Jones is a great fit in their defense. Jones landing with Pittsburgh makes complete sense.

 

[moondog]

I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

I totally agree. I think his neck was the bigger issue and he was cleared by the NFL docs at the combine and the Steelers team doctors.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Sounds like a perfect fit.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

5-ish Finkle, on 26 Apr 2013 - 10:15, said:

Evilgrin 72, on 26 Apr 2013 - 09:43, said:Ton of talent out there at need positions still. Safeties out the wazoo, several WRs, couple running backs, some ILB prospects, all 3 of the top NTs, all but 1 TE. LOTS of guys left that can really help. Now, let's hope for a QB run.

Have to figure at least 2, if not 3, QBs get taken relatively soon. Assume the run on rushers and DBs will continue as well, so the Damontre Moores and Cypriens likely go quickly. Maybe a CB or two from the next rung drop early in the round. I expect at least one of the RBs goes in the top ten too.Not saying I agree with the rankings, but here's nfl.com's top 20 remaining players:Lacy, RBGeno, QBCyprien, SWatson, OLCarradine, DLNassib, QBBrown, LBJ. Taylor, CBJ. Williams, NGTe'o, LBMinter, LBHunter, WRAllen, WRSwearinger, SHunt, DLBarkley, QBErtz, TEC. Washington, OLBArmstead, OTGio, RBFor the hell of it....Top 16 teams and potential targets:Jags: QBNiners: No ideaEagles: QB?Lions: Defense. DB maybe?Bengals: S/RBCardinals: RBJets: QB/maybe Pass Rusher?Titans: No ideaBills: WR? LB?Raiders: ??Bucs: DLPanthers: WRChargers: Should probably go OL again, but won'tBills: Whatever they don't hit with the 9th pickCowboys: After taking the C, who the hell knows?Pitty: ....Were I betting on it, I'd say potential BPA looks like either WR, LB or DB. Steeler can use all three sooo....they should be in pretty good shape.

Totally agree. I could see Williams, Swearinger, Minter, or Hunter as nice fits. Very recently, I was of the mindset that Hunter wouldn't be a great fit, but I've done a lot more reading on him of late and I changed my mind somewhat. Seems like he may have the best speed of anyone left in the draft at WR except for Goodwin.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Yeah, they whole "4.9" thing is overblown. He had a bad workout. He isn't a 4.9 player. Harrison and Woodley both were in the range you mention, yes. Suggs also ran a bad forty at his PD, if memory serves. Anyone think he's a 4.85 guy now? It was one workout. The only real negative I've seen blurbing anywhere about JJ that weren't the knee-jerk "stenosis!!" or "he ran a bad 40!!" reactions was someone expressing concern that he'll be 24 soon. Given the typical progression of Steeler LBs, I can see why someone may feel that way, but they also need to remember that most of the LBs who take a few years to shine are DE converts. Jones is already a space player. His timeline should be expedited because of that, you would think.

I just looked it up. Suggs ran a 4.84 at the combine, then took 2 more shots at it during his pro day to show the time was an anomaly. He ran a 4.87 and a 4.93. The times caused him to drop from a sure-fire top 5 pick to #10. Hasn't hurt him in the slightest.I think he's starting by opening day next year, if not before. Given his age, maturity, and experience, I think you're 100% right, he'll make the transition MUCH more quickly than most. Woodley was a DE convert and played situationally his rookie year and then was a starter by year 2 racking up 10+ sacks. I think Jones is the same thing, only he should be ready even faster.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Here's the scouting report from WalterFootball. Agree that the 40 time is a bit misleading, this cat is explosive.

Strengths:

[*]Fabulous edge pass-rusher

[*]Fast off the edge

[*]Instincts

[*]Great pursuit linebacker

[*]Lives in the backfield

[*]Constant source of pass pressure

[*]Consistently produces splash plays

[*]Excellent at stripping the ball out for forced fumbles

[*]Skilled at shedding blocks

[*]Chases running backs down from the backside

[*]Has some pass-coverage potential

[*]Great motor

[*]Experience against double-teams

[*]Disruptive

[*]Causes havoc behind the line of scrimmage

[*]Uses hands well

[*]Can use his hands and feet at the same time

[*]Plays with good leverage

[*]Pad level

[*]Quickness

[*]Scheme versatility

[*]Should be able to play immediately

Weaknesses:

[*]Not a hard worker

[*]Timed slow

[*]Needs to add strength

[*]Can miss some tackles

[*]Can struggle with runs straight at him

Summary: Jones was one of the best pass-rushers in college football over the last two seasons and dominated the SEC, the nation's strongest conference. He started out his career at USC before a neck injury caused the Trojans staff to tell him to quit football. Other doctors disagreed and Jones transferred to Georgia. After sitting out a season, he took the SEC by storm in 2011.

Jones tied for fifth in the nation in sacks with 13.5 that year. The sophomore also had 70 tackles with 19.5 tackles for a loss, two passes broken up and two forced fumbles. His season was highlighted with a four-sack game against Florida.

Despite all the teams sending double-teams his direction in 2012, Jones was even better as a junior; he led the nation in sacks, forced fumbles and tackles for a loss. Jones totaled 85 tackles, 14.5 sacks, 24.5 tackles for a loss, seven forced fumbles, three passes broken up and one interception on the season. He had a string of dominating performances while missing the Kentucky game with a knee injury and didn't look the same against South Carolina, but bounced back in late October.

Jones had a game for the ages in Week 2 against Missouri. He stepped up with huge plays to help lead the Bulldogs to a win. Jones had nine tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, a pass batted and an interception returned 21 yards to the goal line. The turnovers he created came late in the game and sealed the win for Georgia.

Once again, Jones dominated Florida and carried the Bulldogs to a win that secured them a spot in the SEC Championship. He had 13 tackles, 4.5 tackles for a loss, three sacks, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery against the Gators. Late in the fourth quarter Florida was driving for a game-tying touchdown, but Jones made the game-saving play with a forced fumble on a tackle from behind on tight end Jordan Reed at the Georgia 5-yard line. The Bulldogs recovered for the win.

In the SEC Championship Game against Alabama, Jones notched two sacks and a forced fumble. His sack-fumble was a phenomenal play on which he beat blocks from right tackle D.J. Fluker and running back Eddie Lacy to take down A.J. McCarron. Jones picked up another coverage sack later, but the Crimson Tide had a lot of success running straight at him. It was an ugly game for Jones as a run-defender. He finished his collegiate career strong with two sacks against Nebraska.

Jones should be a pass-rushing demon and a phenomenal edge-rusher in the NFL. He fires up field off the snap and is extremely hard for offensive linemen to get a hold of. Jones has good hands to fight off blocks with moves to get around linemen. While he isn't a power player, he uses some functional strength along with his athleticism to shed blocks.

Jones is a heat-seeking missile in pursuit. He is great at chasing down quarterbacks and running backs from behind. Jones is always cognizant of the ball and does a great job of slapping it out to force turnovers. He was a sack-fumble machine in college. While Jones does not have blazing speed, he is football fast and that was clear with how he dominated the SEC.

There are a few areas Jones needs to improve for the pros. He needs more strength to hold up against runs that come directly at him. That would also help him to avoid some missed tackles.

Scouts at the East-West Shrine told WalterFootball.com that Jones would slide on draft day because it was their belief he would test poorly before the draft and isn't a hard worker in the weight room. The scouts said that watching the game tape, Jones is worthy of being a high first-round pick, but they didn't feel he will go that high. That prediction was validated in the months to come. Jones declined to work out at the Combine and had an ugly showing at his pro day with a terrible 40-yard dash time between 4.9 and 5.0 seconds.

WalterFootball.com spoke with scouts who were in attendance at the pro day, and they said he did well in the linebacker drills, but really struggled in the timed tests. Scouts said that Jones isn't a bad teammate or a bad guy, but he isn't a guy who coaches will love during the week because he doesn't put in a lot of work. However, scouts said they loved the way he showed up on game day.

Jones could be an elite pass-rusher at the next level. If he goes to a good organization and coaching staff that can motivate him, he could be an absolute force. If Jones lands with a bad team that has frequent coaching changes and instability, there is the potential for him to not pan out. With the workout concerns and the neck injury, he could easily fall to the middle of the first round.

Player Comparison: James Harrison/Von Miller. It was a tough call between Harrison and Miller. Harrison, Miller and Jones are all tremendous pass-rushers off the edge. Jones and Miller (6-3, 245) are nearly identical in size, but Jones isn't as fast or explosive as Miller. Jones' speed off the edge is more similar to Harrison (6-0, 242). Jones could turn into a dangerous pass-rusher off the edge like these star NFL linebackers.

NFL Matches: Detroit, Arizona, New York Jets, New Orleans, St. Louis, Pittsburgh

There are a number of teams that could consider Jones in the first round, and a surprise team could easily snatch him up. It wouldn't be a big surprise if a playoff team like Atlanta, Houston or San Francisco trades up for him.

The earliest that Jones could hope to go is to Detroit with the fifth-overall pick. The Lions need to add talent at outside linebacker, and they also have to replace their best edge-rusher after losing Cliff Avril. Jones coming off the edge would be a nice complement to Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley.

The Cardinals (No. 7) and Jets (No. 9) both need to upgrade their edge rush. Jones would be a good fit in either team's 3-4 defense. However, it looks more likely that Jones will fall out of the top 10.

New Orleans at No. 15 makes a lot of sense. The Saints need an edge-rusher for their change to the 3-4. Jones could easily go to New Orleans.

The Rams also need outside linebacker help, so their pick at No. 16 could be used to take Jones.

The lowest that Jones should fall is to the Steelers at No. 17. They need to replace Harrison, and Jones is a great fit in their defense. Jones landing with Pittsburgh makes complete sense.

Great analysis here, I need to start looking at that site. Thanks for posting.

 

[geneyus]

They do some pretty good work.

 

[Kenny Powers]

Walterfootball updates their mocks often as well. Thats my go to place for mock drafts.

Hoping for Hunter, Allen, or Woods in the 2nd. I think these guys are much better than the WRs that will be available in the 3rd.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

I think Hunter and Allen are. Woods? Not so much.

 

[Cookiemonster]

Hunter / Allen, Lacy, Cyprien, Carradine, Wiliams, ILBs, CBs... We'll get something we like in the 2nd and probably the 3rd too.

 

[3C's]

The backups to the starting CB's....not so good. If a good one comes up it would be nice. But, BPA is the way to go.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Read the comments in the article from today's PPG: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/sports/steelers/steelers-pick-jarvis-jones-in-first-round-of-nfl-draft-685047/

Some real yinzer gems.

 

[The Hank]

Don't be surprised if the Steelers go back to the linebacker well AGAIN in the 2nd; especially if an Inside LB is available like Manti Te'o, Arthur Brown and/or Kevin Minter is still hanging around.

I would expect this pick to be one of the following guys, and honestly I'd be OK with any one of them:

ILB: Te'o (ND), Brown (KSU), Minter (LSU)

NT: Williams (BAMA, Hankins (OSU)

S: Cyprien (FIU), Swearinger (SC)

WR: Allen (CAL), Hunter (TEN), Woods (USC), Williams (Baylor)

RB: Franklin (UCLA), Lacy (BAMA), Bernard (UNC)

I mocked Allen to the Steelers yesterday morning, I expect that he'll be the pick tonight.

 

[The Hank]

I dont see the Steelers drafting a CB until much later in the draft, I feel as though they think they are set with Taylor/Allen/Gay/King... I dont agree, but I think thats what they think.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

If Allen is there, you probably have to take him. Then trade sanders to the Pats for the Vikes 3rd rounder and sign Brandon Lloyd!!

 

[steelcityman]

the whole team needs to get quicker. LB, WR, S, CB, RB....the rest of the draft should be filled with those positions. Maybe a QB if one slips, and 'Lers like him.

with all those "names" left, its obvious the steelers can get one. So why do I think they will take some guard from UTEP or DE from Colorado?

 

[Cookiemonster]

Possibility of Damontre Moore? Would we double up? If Worilds is only so-so, and Woodley is getting fat (and lazy?), why not?

I'd prefer Lacy, Hunter, Williams, Brown, Cyprien, but wouldn't go looking for a rope if they took Moore who was mocked quite often to the late 1st round just a few weeks ago.

 

[The Hank]

Possibility of Damontre Moore? Would we double up? If Worilds is only so-so, and Woodley is getting fat (and lazy?), why not?

I'd prefer Lacy, Hunter, Williams, Brown, Cyprien, but wouldn't go looking for a rope if they took Moore who was mocked quite often to the late 1st round just a few weeks ago.

I would be surprised if they went with Moore since they picked Jones, but then again I wouldnt be (if that makes sense?) because of the value he would represent.

But from what I understand, the Steelers (especially Tomlin) loves Brown - almost a Lawrence Timmons type obsession. With a run on skill positions (QB/RB/WR) expected in the 2nd, I wouldnt be shocked at all if that's the way things end up for us, taking Brown and then going for a Christine Michael, Le'Veon Bell or other RB in the 3rd. The Safety position has to be seriously considered EVERY round as well (we need atleast 2 S's when its all said/done).

 

[Cookiemonster]

Possibility of Damontre Moore? Would we double up? If Worilds is only so-so, and Woodley is getting fat (and lazy?), why not?

I'd prefer Lacy, Hunter, Williams, Brown, Cyprien, but wouldn't go looking for a rope if they took Moore who was mocked quite often to the late 1st round just a few weeks ago.

I would be surprised if they went with Moore since they picked Jones, but then again I wouldnt be (if that makes sense?) because of the value he would represent.

But from what I understand, the Steelers (especially Tomlin) loves Brown - almost a Lawrence Timmons type obsession. With a run on skill positions (QB/RB/WR) expected in the 2nd, I wouldnt be shocked at all if that's the way things end up for us, taking Brown and then going for a Christine Michael, Le'Veon Bell or other RB in the 3rd. The Safety position has to be seriously considered EVERY round as well (we need atleast 2 S's when its all said/done).

This morning's mock on NFLN has all of the players I listed plus Carradine and Allen gone before our pick, and I saw Moore's name on their board and wondered...

 

[The Hank]

In free-agency news, Ahmad Bradshaw has been cleared for full activity, will be interesting to see what the Steelers do at the RB position in the draft with Bradshaw/Beanie Wells appearing to be in their back pocket

 

[Fiddles]

Read the comments in the article from today's PPG: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/sports/steelers/steelers-pick-jarvis-jones-in-first-round-of-nfl-draft-685047/

Some real yinzer gems.

didnt realize this:

Jones has been working out with Ike Taylor under trainer Tom Shaw in Orlando, Fla., where he has learned some current and past Steelers history.

"He's one of my mentors," Jones said. "Everybody knows the Steel Curtain. I'm just so happy to be part of this organization.

Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/sports/steelers/steelers-pick-jarvis-jones-in-first-round-of-nfl-draft-685047/#ixzz2RakURb98

 

[Fiddles]

Don't be surprised if the Steelers go back to the linebacker well AGAIN in the 2nd; especially if an Inside LB is available like Manti Te'o, Arthur Brown and/or Kevin Minter is still hanging around.

I would expect this pick to be one of the following guys, and honestly I'd be OK with any one of them:

ILB: Te'o (ND), Brown (KSU), Minter (LSU)

NT: Williams (BAMA, Hankins (OSU)

S: Cyprien (FIU), Swearinger (SC)

WR: Allen (CAL), Hunter (TEN), Woods (USC), Williams (Baylor)

RB: Franklin (UCLA), Lacy (BAMA), Bernard (UNC)

I mocked Allen to the Steelers yesterday morning, I expect that he'll be the pick tonight.

Bleacher report has Allen as someone the steelers should avoid. Compared him to Sweed ouch.

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1616409-10-players-pittsburgh-steelers-should-target-on-day-2/page/12

 

[B-Deep]

I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Hey, we don't need an olb to run 40 yards. Get that quick step and meet at the qb 5-10 yards away.

Yep, I think he starts by next opening day at the latest and is a 7-10 year starter at OLB.

you know predicting him to start for 7-10 seasons is kinda crazy right?

 

[5-ish Finkle]

I'll be more than happy to see them grab Brown at ILB.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Read the comments in the article from today's PPG: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/sports/steelers/steelers-pick-jarvis-jones-in-first-round-of-nfl-draft-685047/

Some real yinzer gems.

Whole lotta folks in those comments that probably haven't watched a single snap of CFB that didn't involve Pitt, Penn State or maybe Robert Morris in a long time.

 

[H8fulHuck]

I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Well said EG. When watching his game film, I didn't see blazing speed, but what I did see was controlled aggression. Jones doesn't fly in at 100 mph, He anticipates the QB or RB making a move then makes the tackle and attempts to rip the ball out at the same time. He is going to generate turnovers.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Hey, we don't need an olb to run 40 yards. Get that quick step and meet at the qb 5-10 yards away.

Yep, I think he starts by next opening day at the latest and is a 7-10 year starter at OLB.

you know predicting him to start for 7-10 seasons is kinda crazy right?

I don't think so. He has the talent for sure. Woodley's been starting on one side for 5 years now already and Harrison was the starter on the other side for about 8-9 years. The only thing that's going to stop him is injury.

 

[B-Deep]

I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Hey, we don't need an olb to run 40 yards. Get that quick step and meet at the qb 5-10 yards away.

Yep, I think he starts by next opening day at the latest and is a 7-10 year starter at OLB.

you know predicting him to start for 7-10 seasons is kinda crazy right?

I don't think so. He has the talent for sure. Woodley's been starting on one side for 5 years now already and Harrison was the starter on the other side for about 8-9 years. The only thing that's going to stop him is injury.

If you assume based on college he'll be at least as good as those 2 and have no issues

that's just a lot to project on D1 of his NFL career

 

[Cookiemonster]

I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Hey, we don't need an olb to run 40 yards. Get that quick step and meet at the qb 5-10 yards away.

Yep, I think he starts by next opening day at the latest and is a 7-10 year starter at OLB.

you know predicting him to start for 7-10 seasons is kinda crazy right?

I don't think so. He has the talent for sure. Woodley's been starting on one side for 5 years now already and Harrison was the starter on the other side for about 8-9 years. The only thing that's going to stop him is injury.

If you assume based on college he'll be at least as good as those 2 and have no issues

that's just a lot to project on D1 of his NFL career

That's why he was a 1st round draft pick.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Hey, we don't need an olb to run 40 yards. Get that quick step and meet at the qb 5-10 yards away.

Yep, I think he starts by next opening day at the latest and is a 7-10 year starter at OLB.

you know predicting him to start for 7-10 seasons is kinda crazy right?

I don't think so. He has the talent for sure. Woodley's been starting on one side for 5 years now already and Harrison was the starter on the other side for about 8-9 years. The only thing that's going to stop him is injury.

If you assume based on college he'll be at least as good as those 2 and have no issues

that's just a lot to project on D1 of his NFL career

True, but the kid put up top 5-10 production and has the talent. I think he was a steal at 17. Teams had different needs or were scared off by the 4.9 and the neck "issue" but tape don't lie in the SEC. He had huge games IN huge games.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Grid71, on 26 Apr 2013 - 14:07, said:

Evilgrin 72, on 26 Apr 2013 - 10:13, said:I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Well said EG. When watching his game film, I didn't see blazing speed, but what I did see was controlled aggression. Jones doesn't fly in at 100 mph, He anticipates the QB or RB making a move then makes the tackle and attempts to rip the ball out at the same time. He is going to generate turnovers.

And with more than just sack-fumbles. Georgia played 56 quarters of football last year and Jones was in the lineup for 45 of them, missed 11 due to injury. Even though the GA defense was lousy with 2013 NFL draft picks (Ogletree, Rambo, Williams, Jenkins, etc) - look at the difference in their numbers with and without Jones on the field :Without Jones : Sacks per game 0.73, stops behind the LOS 2.75 per game.With Jones : Sacks per game 2.73, stops behind the LOS 7.55 per game.Also had 39 QB pressures in addition to his 14.5 sacks, a whopping 10 of which led directly to interceptions. He only played 11 games, so he forced nearly a turnover a game just on hurries. he's just what the doctor ordered for this defense - a splash play waiting to happen.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

B-Deep, on 26 Apr 2013 - 14:17, said:

Evilgrin 72, on 26 Apr 2013 - 14:16, said:

B-Deep, on 26 Apr 2013 - 13:45, said:

Evilgrin 72, on 26 Apr 2013 - 10:18, said:

Leeroy Jenkins, on 26 Apr 2013 - 10:15, said:

Evilgrin 72, on 26 Apr 2013 - 10:13, said:I know most fans are happy with the Jones pick, but I'm a touch surprised to see a decent percentage of Steeler fans down on him. Last year, he missed two games and still led the nation in both sacks and TFL. In 10 games he played against top competition (SEC games, GT rivalry game, and bowl game) - he recorded 13 sacks. Against Alabama in the SEC title game, he sacked McCarron twice, going through a line that we just saw two guys drafted from in the top 11 picks. Against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, he sacked a very mobile Taylor Martinez twice more.Don't tell me this kid can't get to the QB because he ran a 4.9. If memory serves, both Harrison and Woodley ran in the 4.75-4.8 range and they never seemed to have a problem racking up sacks. It's about a lot more than quickness, let alone top-end speed. Even though Ansah and Mingo can run 4.5-4.6, it's not going to do them a ton of good if they have no pass rush moves. NFL tackles can still get between you and the ball, and you have to have an arsenal at your disposal to beat them. That's what Jones brings.

Hey, we don't need an olb to run 40 yards. Get that quick step and meet at the qb 5-10 yards away.

Yep, I think he starts by next opening day at the latest and is a 7-10 year starter at OLB.

you know predicting him to start for 7-10 seasons is kinda crazy right?

I don't think so. He has the talent for sure. Woodley's been starting on one side for 5 years now already and Harrison was the starter on the other side for about 8-9 years. The only thing that's going to stop him is injury.

If you assume based on college he'll be at least as good as those 2 and have no issuesthat's just a lot to project on D1 of his NFL career

He was a better collegiate player than Woodley and WAY better than Harrison. He also has very little standing in his way, and is an absolutely ideal scheme fit. He was my #1 3-4 OLB prospect with Mingo a close #2 and no one else even in their neighborhood. He was tailor-made for the LeBeau defense.

 

[Boone22]

Steelers signed RB/KR La'Rod Stephens-Howling to a one-year contract.

The move may spell the end of Baron Batch's Pittsburgh tenure. Stephens-Howling, better known as "Hyphen," is an explosive kickoff returner with some third-down tools. He's a 5-foot-7, 185-pound scatback. Stephens-Howling has averaged 3.56 YPC on 183 career rushing attempts and caught 56 passes across four seasons. He should make the Steelers' roster as a core special teamer.

Related: Cardinals

Source: Jason La Canfora on Twitter Apr 26 - 4:44 PM

 

[3C's]

thrilling

 

[hammerva]

Wait a minute I thought the Cardinals were supposed to pick Steeler players not the other way around. <_<

 

[Kenny Powers]

Hunter / Allen, Lacy, Cyprien, Carradine, Wiliams, ILBs, CBs... We'll get something we like in the 2nd and probably the 3rd too.

Im pretty sure he will be gone anyway, but does Carradine really fit the 3-4?

 

[treat88]

I'll be more than happy to see them grab Brown at ILB.

I'm not a big advocate for ILB this high, but if they do go ILB, I hope they go Brown.

I think he's gone within the first 5 picks of the second round tho. Minter and Te'o are big steps down from him. Might's well wait on a Klein or Holloman as use an early pick on a middling ILB.

 

[Kenny Powers]

Im also fine if they double up at LB in the 2nd. Id rather have Brown or Minter than Te'o

Id also like Lacy, but if he's gone, Id much much much prefer if they wait until the 3rd or later for a RB. Too many very good players at other positions will be there in the 2nd, and there will be solid RBs to be had in the 3rd, 4th, 5th.

 

[treat88]

Hunter / Allen, Lacy, Cyprien, Carradine, Wiliams, ILBs, CBs... We'll get something we like in the 2nd and probably the 3rd too.

Im pretty sure he will be gone anyway, but does Carradine really fit the 3-4?

Did Aldon Smith really fit the 3-4 when he came out?

That's exactly who a healthy Carradine reminds me of.

I'm thrilled they landed Jones, but kinda sad that I think his selection precludes guys like Carradine, Collins, Washington, or McCray from being a later pick.

 

[3C's]

1st two picks are Hunter and Cyprien. Was hoping one of them would fall but shouldn't have expected it.

 

[Kenny Powers]

1st two picks are Hunter and Cyprien. Was hoping one of them would fall but shouldn't have expected it.

Yeah, all the picks since then have been pretty Steeler "friendly" though.

 

[3C's]

1st two picks are Hunter and Cyprien. Was hoping one of them would fall but shouldn't have expected it.

Yeah, all the picks since then have been pretty Steeler "friendly" though.

Tank and Woods could both be Steelers (clarification: they were just drafted). Kind of holding out hope for Arthur Brown or Jonathan Banks.

 

[treat88]

Tank to 9ers answers if he fits the 34.

5 tech/OLB hybrid.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Tank to 9ers answers if he fits the 34.5 tech/OLB hybrid.

280 lb LB? no way280 pound 5-tech? Hmmm.

 

[Kenny Powers]

This hasnt been too bad for who we will be looking to still be available at 48

 

[BigSteelThrill]

4 picks between us and a shot at Eddie Lacy...

Panthers

Cardinals

Bills

Cowboys

Tho Jerry Jones is the new Al Davis and a complete loose canon.