2023 Pittsburgh Steelers. Banged up team loses to Buffalo. Looking ahead to 2024 now (3 Viewers)

[menobrown]

Admittedly, I had forgotten about the Washington job being open. I thought the Ravens were basically the last legit OC position. But why go to that disastrous organization unless Bezos is closing on the team soon.

I had read Wednesday night that him going to Washington was a done deal.

A lot of layers to why he'd take that route but it boils down to trying to position himself for a HC job. If he believes the reason he's not got a head coaching job is he's stuck in the shadows of Reid and Mahomes then he's going to an almost polar opposite place he'll be heavily credited for any on field success.

 

[QuizGuy66]

I get the logic for EB:
Promo in title and multi-year deal presumably at better pay with play calling duties.
Baltimore has perhaps the same problem as KC - if he did well then it would be because of Lamar or whatever. Washington has a pretty bare cupboard but he can put his full imprint there.
May be some question how long Rivera is there win or lose with his health issues in recent years - so possible promotion in the relative near term is possible.
True there is a new owner group (presumably) coming but not yet but he is betting on himself anyway.
It just was never gonna happen from KC. It is ridiculous that is the case but it is what it is.

I hope he does great there.


Anyway sorry for the big sidetrack here - certainly not my intention. Please don't pick any Illini in the draft since as an alum I would like to be able to root for them.

Will be interesting to see what you guys do this offseason - probably for good (for you) reason compared to say the Browns

Cheers
-QG

 

[H8fulHuck]

I don’t blame quality coaching prospects for going another direction. If it were me, I’d rather wait until Tomlin and the Rooneys are open to revamping the offense. Sliding in as Canadas assistant coach has more potential to hinder career development.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

I don’t blame quality coaching prospects for going another direction. If it were me, I’d rather wait until Tomlin and the Rooneys are open to revamping the offense. Sliding in as Canadas assistant coach has more potential to hinder career development.

If he was being brought in as an "asst HC for Offense", there wouldnt be any "assisting" Straw Hat. Canada would have been a subordinate....and hopefully gotten super chapped about it and quit.

Doesn't matter, as it wont be happening now. It was nice to dream on it for ten minutes though.

 

[steelers1080]

Steelers hiring Aaron Curry as LB coach. Hopefully he's better as a coach than he was as a player. Reports are that he was good with the Seahawks.

 

[steelers1080]

Just saw a recent mock draft where we would have been able to get Skoronski at 17, O'Cyrus Torrence at 32, and Siaki Ika at 49. If we could do that and clear some cap space through cuts and trades (hopefully we can get something for Trubisky, but I'm skeptical), we might be able to sign a few players to round out some other needs.

We could potentially re-sign Sutton, keep Wallace, and sign Byron Murhpy from AZ (also cut Witherspoon and William Jackson). That would help us a lot at CB. We also re-sign Edmunds and Kazee, and our secondary is pretty well taken care of.

We let Bush walk, but replace him by signing Edwards from Philly, a significant improvement and a player well known to AW in the front office.

We probably also try to sign Larry O, but only if it's reasonable. If not, we roll with Heyward, Siaki, Leal, Loudermilk, and Adams.

That would significantly improve our O-line, ILBs, and CBs, and maintain our Safeties, while improving our D-line. We still need help at OLB & WR, but this would be an excellent outcome. Let's hope that Skoronski's arms measure super short, because he can just play.

 

[H8fulHuck]

Just saw a recent mock draft where we would have been able to get Skoronski at 17, O'Cyrus Torrence at 32, and Siaki Ika at 49. If we could do that and clear some cap space through cuts and trades (hopefully we can get something for Trubisky, but I'm skeptical), we might be able to sign a few players to round out some other needs.

We could potentially re-sign Sutton, keep Wallace, and sign Byron Murhpy from AZ (also cut Witherspoon and William Jackson). That would help us a lot at CB. We also re-sign Edmunds and Kazee, and our secondary is pretty well taken care of.

We let Bush walk, but replace him by signing Edwards from Philly, a significant improvement and a player well known to AW in the front office.

We probably also try to sign Larry O, but only if it's reasonable. If not, we roll with Heyward, Siaki, Leal, Loudermilk, and Adams.

That would significantly improve our O-line, ILBs, and CBs, and maintain our Safeties, while improving our D-line. We still need help at OLB & WR, but this would be an excellent outcome. Let's hope that Skoronski's arms measure super short, because he can just play.

You put some good thoughts around your plan. Respect. It would improve several key areas. I especially like how you attacked the OLine aggressively with the first 2 picks.

It’s funny that you want the short arm prospect and I’m championing the opposite. Despite the greater need being left tackle, I can’t help but love Dawand Jones coming in to dominate at right tackle. Switched from basketball to football in college. Largest wing span ever measured at the position. Powerful hands, good balance. Check out his game tape. This kid is going to be elite.

Another take where we differ, this is a great draft for cornerbacks. Have to come away with at least 1 early. If we could trade back several spots in the first losing Skoronski in your scenario, but pick up another 2nd, we might come away with Dawand Jones, O’Cyrus and 2 very good corners. Or a corner and Siaki / talent we didn’t anticipate falling this far. 3rd round on, BPA weighted towards defensive front 7.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Pay or wait? What should the Steelers do with LB Alex Highsmith?

 

[steelers1080]

Just saw a recent mock draft where we would have been able to get Skoronski at 17, O'Cyrus Torrence at 32, and Siaki Ika at 49. If we could do that and clear some cap space through cuts and trades (hopefully we can get something for Trubisky, but I'm skeptical), we might be able to sign a few players to round out some other needs.

We could potentially re-sign Sutton, keep Wallace, and sign Byron Murhpy from AZ (also cut Witherspoon and William Jackson). That would help us a lot at CB. We also re-sign Edmunds and Kazee, and our secondary is pretty well taken care of.

We let Bush walk, but replace him by signing Edwards from Philly, a significant improvement and a player well known to AW in the front office.

We probably also try to sign Larry O, but only if it's reasonable. If not, we roll with Heyward, Siaki, Leal, Loudermilk, and Adams.

That would significantly improve our O-line, ILBs, and CBs, and maintain our Safeties, while improving our D-line. We still need help at OLB & WR, but this would be an excellent outcome. Let's hope that Skoronski's arms measure super short, because he can just play.

You put some good thoughts around your plan. Respect. It would improve several key areas. I especially like how you attacked the OLine aggressively with the first 2 picks.

It’s funny that you want the short arm prospect and I’m championing the opposite. Despite the greater need being left tackle, I can’t help but love Dawand Jones coming in to dominate at right tackle. Switched from basketball to football in college. Largest wing span ever measured at the position. Powerful hands, good balance. Check out his game tape. This kid is going to be elite.

Another take where we differ, this is a great draft for cornerbacks. Have to come away with at least 1 early. If we could trade back several spots in the first losing Skoronski in your scenario, but pick up another 2nd, we might come away with Dawand Jones, O’Cyrus and 2 very good corners. Or a corner and Siaki / talent we didn’t anticipate falling this far. 3rd round on, BPA weighted towards defensive front 7.

Per the typical trade chart we would have to trade down with KC to gain an additional 2nd round pick without giving up picks other than our 1st. I think it's more likely to gain an extra 3rd, which would be nice but might not be worth the drop in talent.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

If things break a certain way, and it they were truly interested in getting additional picks, I think it might be more likely that trading down from 32 might be the better bet.

Once pick 31 has been made the Steelers can officially "open for business" for the better part of a day to try and get the best deal for #32. Afterglow of round one will have had time to wear off a bit, and there will probably be at least a few players available there that some teams never dreamed would be. If those players happen to be at a position Pittsburgh could stand to bypass for a few picks, they may get some team willing to overpay for their perceived 'darling.'

That said, I really don't think this draft class (as a whole) is as talented as some, but it does have a couple positions that are pretty deep that dovetail with the Steelers' deficits. Given that, it may just be better to stay put at 17 and 32 and take BPA at those positions....unless ,of course, some other team is willing to leave good sense at the door.

 

[IHEARTFF]

unless you love the guy at 32, a trade down makes sense

 

[H8fulHuck]

Just saw a recent mock draft where we would have been able to get Skoronski at 17, O'Cyrus Torrence at 32, and Siaki Ika at 49. If we could do that and clear some cap space through cuts and trades (hopefully we can get something for Trubisky, but I'm skeptical), we might be able to sign a few players to round out some other needs.

We could potentially re-sign Sutton, keep Wallace, and sign Byron Murhpy from AZ (also cut Witherspoon and William Jackson). That would help us a lot at CB. We also re-sign Edmunds and Kazee, and our secondary is pretty well taken care of.

We let Bush walk, but replace him by signing Edwards from Philly, a significant improvement and a player well known to AW in the front office.

We probably also try to sign Larry O, but only if it's reasonable. If not, we roll with Heyward, Siaki, Leal, Loudermilk, and Adams.

That would significantly improve our O-line, ILBs, and CBs, and maintain our Safeties, while improving our D-line. We still need help at OLB & WR, but this would be an excellent outcome. Let's hope that Skoronski's arms measure super short, because he can just play.

You put some good thoughts around your plan. Respect. It would improve several key areas. I especially like how you attacked the OLine aggressively with the first 2 picks.

It’s funny that you want the short arm prospect and I’m championing the opposite. Despite the greater need being left tackle, I can’t help but love Dawand Jones coming in to dominate at right tackle. Switched from basketball to football in college. Largest wing span ever measured at the position. Powerful hands, good balance. Check out his game tape. This kid is going to be elite.

Another take where we differ, this is a great draft for cornerbacks. Have to come away with at least 1 early. If we could trade back several spots in the first losing Skoronski in your scenario, but pick up another 2nd, we might come away with Dawand Jones, O’Cyrus and 2 very good corners. Or a corner and Siaki / talent we didn’t anticipate falling this far. 3rd round on, BPA weighted towards defensive front 7.

Per the typical trade chart we would have to trade down with KC to gain an additional 2nd round pick without giving up picks other than our 1st. I think it's more likely to gain an extra 3rd, which would be nice but might not be worth the drop in talent.

That is in line with what I was thinking. Plus I am skittish with Skoronski and the short length. Be prepared to drop to the bottom of the first if we can find a trade partner. Did a walkthemock live draft that started with these 16 players…

QB Young, Levis, Stroud,Richardson
CB Gonzalez, Porter, Witherspoon
OT Paris, Broderick, Skoronski
DL Carter, Bresee
Edge Anderson, Wilson, Murphy
WR Quentin Johnston

Top prospects at 17
RB Bijan Robinson, WR Addison, TE Michael Mayer, DB Brian Branch, Edge Luke Van Ness

Who do you take for Pittsburgh here? Branch for me, though the Steelers would probably take Addison for Kenny. I’d rather let KC move up for Bijan and pick up a second rounder than draft Jordan Addison. Or we pass on value to take Clark Phillips or one of the next tier OT who might still be there at the end of the first.

 

[H8fulHuck]

If things break a certain way, and it they were truly interested in getting additional picks, I think it might be more likely that trading down from 32 might be the better bet.

Once pick 31 has been made the Steelers can officially "open for business" for the better part of a day to try and get the best deal for #32. Afterglow of round one will have had a time to wear off a bit,, and there will probably be at least a few players available there that some teams never dreamed would be. If those players happen to be at a position Pittsburgh could stand to bypass for a few picks, they may get some team willing to overpay for their perceived 'darling.'

That said, I really don't think this draft class (as a whole) is as talented as some, but it does have a couple position that are pretty deep that dovetail with the Steelers deficits. Given that, it may just be better to stay put at 17 and 32 and take BPA at those positions....unless ,of course, some other team is willing to leave good sense at the door.

Been thinking the same as you. Would be exciting to see the Steelers get overpaid for the 32nd pick.

 

[H8fulHuck]

Link

Jarmir Jones signs 1 year deal. Guessing for special teams more than position depth.

 

[Godsbrother]

Link

Jarmir Jones signs 1 year deal. Guessing for special teams more than position depth.

Championship!

 

[steelers1080]

Link

Jarmir Jones signs 1 year deal. Guessing for special teams more than position depth.

Championship!

The posts on reddit after we signed the LS were pretty great. Along the lines of "LFG. Super Bowl here we come! NFL watch out!"

 

[steelers1080]

Link

Jarmir Jones signs 1 year deal. Guessing for special teams more than position depth.

Championship!

The posts on reddit after we signed the LS were pretty great. Along the lines of "LFG. Super Bowl here we come! NFL watch out!"

 

[steelers1080]

If there's 6-8 players that the Steelers like equally, then I'd be fine trading down to pick 38 with the Raiders and getting an additional 4th round pick. It's not game changing, but if we don't have a preference anyways it could gain us a solid player. It's possible that some combination of the following players could be available on Day 2:

• Lukas Van Ness
• Deonte Banks
• Trenton Simpson
• Emmanuel Forbes
• Nolan Smith
• Dawand Jones
• O'Cyrus Torrence
• Drew Sanders
• Calijah Kancey
• Bryan Bresee
• Anton Harrison
• Siaki Ika

Likewise, I'd be fine trading up 1-2 spots into the 1st to get a slightly better player on a 5th year option.

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

Just saw a recent mock draft where we would have been able to get Skoronski at 17, O'Cyrus Torrence at 32, and Siaki Ika at 49. If we could do that and clear some cap space through cuts and trades (hopefully we can get something for Trubisky, but I'm skeptical), we might be able to sign a few players to round out some other needs.

We could potentially re-sign Sutton, keep Wallace, and sign Byron Murhpy from AZ (also cut Witherspoon and William Jackson). That would help us a lot at CB. We also re-sign Edmunds and Kazee, and our secondary is pretty well taken care of.

We let Bush walk, but replace him by signing Edwards from Philly, a significant improvement and a player well known to AW in the front office.

We probably also try to sign Larry O, but only if it's reasonable. If not, we roll with Heyward, Siaki, Leal, Loudermilk, and Adams.

That would significantly improve our O-line, ILBs, and CBs, and maintain our Safeties, while improving our D-line. We still need help at OLB & WR, but this would be an excellent outcome. Let's hope that Skoronski's arms measure super short, because he can just play.

You put some good thoughts around your plan. Respect. It would improve several key areas. I especially like how you attacked the OLine aggressively with the first 2 picks.

It’s funny that you want the short arm prospect and I’m championing the opposite. Despite the greater need being left tackle, I can’t help but love Dawand Jones coming in to dominate at right tackle. Switched from basketball to football in college. Largest wing span ever measured at the position. Powerful hands, good balance. Check out his game tape. This kid is going to be elite.

Another take where we differ, this is a great draft for cornerbacks. Have to come away with at least 1 early. If we could trade back several spots in the first losing Skoronski in your scenario, but pick up another 2nd, we might come away with Dawand Jones, O’Cyrus and 2 very good corners. Or a corner and Siaki / talent we didn’t anticipate falling this far. 3rd round on, BPA weighted towards defensive front 7.

Per the typical trade chart we would have to trade down with KC to gain an additional 2nd round pick without giving up picks other than our 1st. I think it's more likely to gain an extra 3rd, which would be nice but might not be worth the drop in talent.

That is in line with what I was thinking. Plus I am skittish with Skoronski and the short length. Be prepared to drop to the bottom of the first if we can find a trade partner. Did a walkthemock live draft that started with these 16 players…

QB Young, Levis, Stroud,Richardson
CB Gonzalez, Porter, Witherspoon
OT Paris, Broderick, Skoronski
DL Carter, Bresee
Edge Anderson, Wilson, Murphy
WR Quentin Johnston

Top prospects at 17
RB Bijan Robinson, WR Addison, TE Michael Mayer, DB Brian Branch, Edge Luke Van Ness

Who do you take for Pittsburgh here? Branch for me, though the Steelers would probably take Addison for Kenny. I’d rather let KC move up for Bijan and pick up a second rounder than draft Jordan Addison. Or we pass on value to take Clark Phillips or one of the next tier OT who might still be there at the end of the first.

This is worst case. Branch should be the pick if this goes down

 

[steelers1080]

Apparently Jalen Carter has a misdemeanor arrest warrant issued for him for reckless driving. A while back there was a crash where a staffer and player were killed. At the time it was thought to be a single car wreck but now they think it was a drunken race between Carter and the driver of the car who crashed. Not sure if this is a jailtime offense, but he also apparently lied to the cops about where he was when the crash occurred.

Wonder if this affects his draft stock or if teams just overlook it because of his talent.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Steelers Ranked Just 22nd In Team Facility Report Card, Players Don't Feel Like Team Is Investing Enough Money

An interesting report card recently came out from the NFLPA. In a survey of 1300 players, they were asked to rank their team’s facilities. Everything from how modern the weight room and locker room are to how their families are treated to the quality of team training staff and plane rides. For...

steelersdepot.com

Ouch. According to this, players think the Rooneys are dirt cheap. I am shocked they give a D- regarding how families are treated. I wonder if that is related to tickets or travel accommodations or something.

 

[H8fulHuck]

Steelers Ranked Just 22nd In Team Facility Report Card, Players Don't Feel Like Team Is Investing Enough Money

An interesting report card recently came out from the NFLPA. In a survey of 1300 players, they were asked to rank their team’s facilities. Everything from how modern the weight room and locker room are to how their families are treated to the quality of team training staff and plane rides. For...

steelersdepot.com

Ouch. According to this, players think the Rooneys are dirt cheap. I am shocked they give a D- regarding how families are treated. I wonder if that is related to tickets or travel accommodations or something.

Learned a few things from this.
Steelers are 1 of 11 teams that don’t provide daycare on game day
1 of 14 teams without a family room
Locker room, training room and weight room voted some of the worst in the league

Locker rooms
Check out the Jaguars locker room

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Steelers Ranked Just 22nd In Team Facility Report Card, Players Don't Feel Like Team Is Investing Enough Money

An interesting report card recently came out from the NFLPA. In a survey of 1300 players, they were asked to rank their team’s facilities. Everything from how modern the weight room and locker room are to how their families are treated to the quality of team training staff and plane rides. For...

steelersdepot.com

Ouch. According to this, players think the Rooneys are dirt cheap. I am shocked they give a D- regarding how families are treated. I wonder if that is related to tickets or travel accommodations or something.

Learned a few things from this.
Steelers are 1 of 11 teams that don’t provide daycare on game day
1 of 14 teams without a family room
Locker room, training room and weight room voted some of the worst in the league

Locker rooms
Check out the Jaguars locker room

I mean, they are just replacing the troughs in the upper level bathrooms of the stadium with urinals.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Steelers Ranked Just 22nd In Team Facility Report Card, Players Don't Feel Like Team Is Investing Enough Money

An interesting report card recently came out from the NFLPA. In a survey of 1300 players, they were asked to rank their team’s facilities. Everything from how modern the weight room and locker room are to how their families are treated to the quality of team training staff and plane rides. For...

steelersdepot.com

Ouch. According to this, players think the Rooneys are dirt cheap. I am shocked they give a D- regarding how families are treated. I wonder if that is related to tickets or travel accommodations or something.

Learned a few things from this.
Steelers are 1 of 11 teams that don’t provide daycare on game day
1 of 14 teams without a family room
Locker room, training room and weight room voted some of the worst in the league

Locker rooms
Check out the Jaguars locker room

That family stuff just blows my mind based on what I thought the values of the team/rooneys were.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

New day, new mock!

17. Bryan Bresee, DL - Clemson

32. Trenton Simpson, ILB - Clemson

49. Deonte Banks, CB - Maryland

80. Nathaniel Dell, WR - Houston

120. Connor Galvin, OT - Baylor

236. Robert Beal, EDGE - Georgia

243. Clayton Tune, QB - Houston

 

[H8fulHuck]

New day, new mock!

17. Bryan Bresee, DL - Clemson

32. Trenton Simpson, ILB - Clemson

49. Deonte Banks, CB - Maryland

80. Nathaniel Dell, WR - Houston

120. Connor Galvin, OT - Baylor

236. Robert Beal, EDGE - Georgia

243. Clayton Tune, QB - Houston

Looks like a Steelers draft to me taking DL, LB, WR early. Who needs talent on the OLine with Matt calling the shots? We can win by misdirection, not talent right? Haha.

From what I’m reading, Banks and Ringo are very good cover 3 corners. Is that what the Steelers are after? My mocks, been focused on corners who fit any scheme, man or press-man.

Clark Phillips, Cam Smith, Forbes, DJ Turner, Kyu Blu Kelly, Eli Ricks and maybe Tyrique Stevenson. Very deep and talented group. Obviously Gonzalez, Porter and Witherspoon are no brainers.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

New day, new mock!

17. Bryan Bresee, DL - Clemson

32. Trenton Simpson, ILB - Clemson

49. Deonte Banks, CB - Maryland

80. Nathaniel Dell, WR - Houston

120. Connor Galvin, OT - Baylor

236. Robert Beal, EDGE - Georgia

243. Clayton Tune, QB - Houston

Looks like a Steelers draft to me taking DL, LB, WR early. Who needs talent on the OLine with Matt calling the shots? We can win by misdirection, not talent right? Haha.

From what I’m reading, Banks and Ringo are very good cover 3 corners. Is that what the Steelers are after? My mocks, been focused on corners who fit any scheme, man or press-man.

Clark Phillips, Cam Smith, Forbes, DJ Turner, Kyu Blu Kelly, Eli Ricks and maybe Tyrique Stevenson. Very deep and talented group. Obviously Gonzalez, Porter and Witherspoon are no brainers.

None of my OLine targets were there unfortunately. I don't think we reach on OL at 17 if the top 3 tackles are gone already.

 

[steelers1080]

New day, new mock!

17. Bryan Bresee, DL - Clemson

32. Trenton Simpson, ILB - Clemson

49. Deonte Banks, CB - Maryland

80. Nathaniel Dell, WR - Houston

120. Connor Galvin, OT - Baylor

236. Robert Beal, EDGE - Georgia

243. Clayton Tune, QB - Houston

Looks like a Steelers draft to me taking DL, LB, WR early. Who needs talent on the OLine with Matt calling the shots? We can win by misdirection, not talent right? Haha.

From what I’m reading, Banks and Ringo are very good cover 3 corners. Is that what the Steelers are after? My mocks, been focused on corners who fit any scheme, man or press-man.

Clark Phillips, Cam Smith, Forbes, DJ Turner, Kyu Blu Kelly, Eli Ricks and maybe Tyrique Stevenson. Very deep and talented group. Obviously Gonzalez, Porter and Witherspoon are no brainers.

None of my OLine targets were there unfortunately. I don't think we reach on OL at 17 if the top 3 tackles are gone already.

Based on all the recent mocks Banks at 32 seems unlikely, and 49 seems incredible. That said, this would be awesome.

 

[steelers1080]

New day, new mock!

17. Bryan Bresee, DL - Clemson

32. Trenton Simpson, ILB - Clemson

49. Deonte Banks, CB - Maryland

80. Nathaniel Dell, WR - Houston

120. Connor Galvin, OT - Baylor

236. Robert Beal, EDGE - Georgia

243. Clayton Tune, QB - Houston

New mock also! Used nflmockdraftdatabase for their tool. Traded down 6 spots from our 4th round pick (120 to 126) to gain a 6th and 7th. There was a huge run on CB from 1.09 - 1.16 so I didn't get any of the stud CBs.

• 17 - Peter Skorosnki, OT, Northwestern
• 32 - Bryan Bresee, DL, Clemson - He's been falling in some recent mocks but who knows.
• 49 - Felix Anudike-Uzomah, Edge, Kansas St.
• 80 - Henry To'oto'o, ILB, Alabama
• 126 - Blake Freeland, OT, BYU
• 190 - Ronnie Bell, WR, Michigan
• 231 - Dontay Demus Jr., WR, Maryland
• 236 - Myles Brooks, CB, Louisiana Tech
• 243 - Mohamed Ibrahim, RB, Minnesota

Hit OT twice, I think we could improve both sides, but if either hits it's really a win. I think Edge is a big need but becomes even more of a need next year if we're unable to keep Highsmith. We need an ILB to pair with Robinson and there's speculation Jack could be gone soon. I'd rather just add a solid ILB and keep Jack one more year.

Grabbed 2 WRs late because I think our WR room could use improvement and these are low risk picks. Demus flashed at MD but seemed a bit underutilized. Bell was a top target for one of the best teams in the NCAA last year. Brooks was a late stab at CB since I missed after the big CB run, and Ibrahim is a 3rd RB/special teamer. Probably would replace Macfarland.

 

[H8fulHuck]

New day, new mock!

17. Bryan Bresee, DL - Clemson

32. Trenton Simpson, ILB - Clemson

49. Deonte Banks, CB - Maryland

80. Nathaniel Dell, WR - Houston

120. Connor Galvin, OT - Baylor

236. Robert Beal, EDGE - Georgia

243. Clayton Tune, QB - Houston

Looks like a Steelers draft to me taking DL, LB, WR early. Who needs talent on the OLine with Matt calling the shots? We can win by misdirection, not talent right? Haha.

From what I’m reading, Banks and Ringo are very good cover 3 corners. Is that what the Steelers are after? My mocks, been focused on corners who fit any scheme, man or press-man.

Clark Phillips, Cam Smith, Forbes, DJ Turner, Kyu Blu Kelly, Eli Ricks and maybe Tyrique Stevenson. Very deep and talented group. Obviously Gonzalez, Porter and Witherspoon are no brainers.

None of my OLine targets were there unfortunately. I don't think we reach on OL at 17 if the top 3 tackles are gone already.

Had that happen quite often as well. Pre-combine, seems likely the big 3 OT and CB will be gone before the 17th pick. Daigle ranking for OT has Paris Johnson, Broderick Jones and Skoronski ranked 8, 10 and 13 respectively. CB Gonzalez, Porter and Witherspoon are 5, 11 and 12. I like looking at his ranking since he seems to be in tune with where teams value prospects. Bresee is Daigle’s 17th best player and a great fit. Coincidence?

It is a serious question about the corners best suited for the Steelers. Hope it didn’t come across as a dig. What is a better fit, press man or cover 3 corners? I thought the team shifted to playing more man after guys like Brady cake walk through our zone coverage without breaking a sweat. One of the reasons Joey Porter Jr is touted as a good fit being a heavy press man guy.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

New day, new mock!

17. Bryan Bresee, DL - Clemson

32. Trenton Simpson, ILB - Clemson

49. Deonte Banks, CB - Maryland

80. Nathaniel Dell, WR - Houston

120. Connor Galvin, OT - Baylor

236. Robert Beal, EDGE - Georgia

243. Clayton Tune, QB - Houston

Looks like a Steelers draft to me taking DL, LB, WR early. Who needs talent on the OLine with Matt calling the shots? We can win by misdirection, not talent right? Haha.

From what I’m reading, Banks and Ringo are very good cover 3 corners. Is that what the Steelers are after? My mocks, been focused on corners who fit any scheme, man or press-man.

Clark Phillips, Cam Smith, Forbes, DJ Turner, Kyu Blu Kelly, Eli Ricks and maybe Tyrique Stevenson. Very deep and talented group. Obviously Gonzalez, Porter and Witherspoon are no brainers.

None of my OLine targets were there unfortunately. I don't think we reach on OL at 17 if the top 3 tackles are gone already.

Had that happen quite often as well. Pre-combine, seems likely the big 3 OT and CB will be gone before the 17th pick. Daigle ranking for OT has Paris Johnson, Broderick Jones and Skoronski ranked 8, 10 and 13 respectively. CB Gonzalez, Porter and Witherspoon are 5, 11 and 12. I like looking at his ranking since he seems to be in tune with where teams value prospects. Bresee is Daigle’s 17th best player and a great fit. Coincidence?

It is a serious question about the corners best suited for the Steelers. Hope it didn’t come across as a dig. What is a better fit, press man or cover 3 corners? I thought the team shifted to playing more man after guys like Brady cake walk through our zone coverage without breaking a sweat. One of the reasons Joey Porter Jr is touted as a good fit being a heavy press man guy.

I don't know the answer to that on corners.

The mocks will get better after the combine and then we can really start to narrow it down once we see which pro days Steelers/Tomlin attend and which ones Steelers coaches actually run for the players.

 

[H8fulHuck]

Good day to mock. Tried the nflmockdraftdatabase using Daigle’s ratings. Just one trade back adding picks 85, 158 and 241 netting Ricks, Tomlinson and Jones.

21 OT Paris Johnson - 8th best player on my board as the Steelers new fixture at left tackle

32 OT Dawand Jones - 26th best player thank you Ohio State. Took him before overall 24th best player John Michael Schmitz because their draft capital was equal and Jones presence at RT is a game changer. Could have reached for need passed on Drew Sanders 35, Clark Phillips 30, DT not in play with next players rated in the 60s

49 C John Michael Schmitz - 24th best player Didn’t intend to swing this big at improving the offensive line. Managed to resist reaching for defensive areas of need. Schmitz takes over at C allowing Cole and Dan Moore to battle for the left guard role. Players I didn’t reach for here include DJ Turner 40, Derick Hall 33, Henry To’oto’o 51, DT Benton 62

80 Edge Derick Hall - Draft board ranked 33 overall. Steelers do NEED a starter at CB but Hall is exceptional value on the board. With the trade back adding pick 85, allowed me to pull the trigger on value over need. Could have gone with LB To’oto’o 51 as well.

85 CB Eli Ricks - Thrilled to see Ricks on the board here. Expect his stock to rise after his pro day. He is injured far too often but when he’s not, this kid is amazing. LB was still there and highest rated player on the board. Passed on value for need because CB is too desperate a situation vs LB.

120 DL Byron Young, Alabama 91st overall player. Passed on value at CB Tomlinson 70 overall slipped. At this point gave into need to draft someone on the D line.

158 CB Tre’Vius Tomlinson 70th overall player and shocked he is still there. Great fit as nickel/slot corner and some insurance for Eli Ricks injury history.

236 QB Jake Haener - Steelers must draft a QB somewhere in the draft considering both backups might be gone. Haener slid to the 7th so scooped up as a project

241 LB Cam Jones, Indiana - has a shot

243 OT Warren McClendon - Projects more as a guard and happens to be the 118th overall best player on my draft board. Might develop into a decent lineman especially when we want to run the ball.

Doubt this mock will be popular with fans but I like how this turned out despite missing out on LB. Clearly a major lift to the offense especially the run game. Pickett needs more support than average NFL quarterbacks to be successful. On defense we get a nice Edge player and two serious upgrades at Corner. Young is good enough for spot duty to fill in on the line and develop.

 

[steelcityman]

All the combine stats are in, and i am doubling down on Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia at 17. He'd be my "no matter what" pick.

 

[steelers1080]

All the combine stats are in, and i am doubling down on Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia at 17. He'd be my "no matter what" pick.

Based on meetings at the combine it seems like CB is the pick at 17, not O-line, but that's just my hunch based on what's been reported. I think O-Line, D-Line, or ILB at 32 & 49.

 

[H8fulHuck]

Pre-draft meeting tracker. OL list is long. Gives me hope multiple picks are in store.

Tracker

 

[steelcityman]

Tomlin watched Willis like a hawk last year, took Pickett. I dont mind CB at 17, if Jones and Pete are gone. I'm afraid they are tempted by Addison tho.

 

[crushedspirit]

Tomlin watched Willis like a hawk last year, took Pickett. I dont mind CB at 17, if Jones and Pete are gone. I'm afraid they are tempted by Addison tho.

I really don't want Addison, but I sense they will get enamored with his 2021 season. Rather take a guy like Mingo later on at that position.

 

[pghrob]

Tomlin watched Willis like a hawk last year, took Pickett. I dont mind CB at 17, if Jones and Pete are gone. I'm afraid they are tempted by Addison tho.

I really don't want Addison, but I sense they will get enamored with his 2021 season. Rather take a guy like Mingo later on at that position.

Addison as our 2nd second round pick might be worth it. But not sooner.

 

[crushedspirit]

Tomlin watched Willis like a hawk last year, took Pickett. I dont mind CB at 17, if Jones and Pete are gone. I'm afraid they are tempted by Addison tho.

I really don't want Addison, but I sense they will get enamored with his 2021 season. Rather take a guy like Mingo later on at that position.

Addison as our 2nd second round pick might be worth it. But not sooner.

It depends on who is available, but it's a possibility at 32.

 

[pghrob]

I'll pass on Addison at 32.

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

Post Combine, here is where I am at for the draft:
I expect these 12 to be gone for sure
Bryce Young
C.J. Stroud
Anthony Richardson
Will Levis
Quentin Johnston
Peter Skoronski
Paris Johnson Jr.
Will Anderson Jr.
Jalen Carter (the only way he isn't is if it looks like he is going to jail)
Tyree Wilson
Christian Gonzalez
Devon Witherspoon

If any expect for maybe Johnston slip to 17 the Steelers should immediately run their card to the podium. I know they won't for any of the QB's, but they also won't get the chance.

I think the draft pick should eb one of these 5:
Joey Porter Jr. - He is BPA if these 12 are gone. I expect him to be consensus top 15 for sure. I think he is being underrated. His ball skills are better than he is given credit for. Penn State has a great secondary everywhere and teams still avoided him like the plague. CB also matches up extremely well with need. His ties to Pittsburgh are secondary, but are nice.
Broderick Jones - I have bumped him up a bit in my mind on his combine, mostly just his measurables. He is still a bit of a project, but his upside is high enough to make him a good pick at 17. I think he is least likely of the 5 to be there.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba - I expect this to be the least popular choice, but the Julian Edelman comps seem legit to me. He could be a monster in the middle of the field. I think Canada would have to go for him to fulfil his promise though.
Deonte Banks - People make too much from combine numbers, but I think Banks needs some bump. His numbers are truly insane. Even before those, I thought he would have been a good pick at 32.
Nolan Smith - Another great tester. I am worried about his size even as a 3-4 OLB. However he would be scary coming to to spell Watt and Highsmith. Isn't the biggest need, but if the other 16 were gone, I would consider him BPA.

4 more I wouldn't hate unless Porter or Jones was there:
Bryan Bresee - ACL injury has me knocking him down my board, but he could be a beast in Pittsburgh.
Anton Harrison - He is a reach at 17. However at least he is a high upside player at a premium position.
Brian Branch - I think he will he a very good NFL slot corner, I am just not sure that is worth the 17th pick.
Myles Murphy - I can see Tomlin dreaming about what he could do with his athleticism.

I would pretty much hate anybody else, but would really hate Jordan Addison. He is small and a below average athlete.


Three guys I like for 2nd round picks. I think you would need to use the 32nd to get any of them. I think it is a small reach for Smith and Campbell, but there fit in Pittsburgh might justify a small reach in the 2nd round. :
Mazi Smith - He is special enough to warrant 32 as a NT.
Jack Campbell - The need at LB is probably the biggest on the team. It is a terrible LB class. He is the only LB in the class with decent size who could step in and contribute year 1.
Zay Flowers - He is scary with the ball in his hands.

Keeanu Benton is clearly on the Steeler radar. I would love him at pick 80. He is a bit of a reach at 49, but one I would live with.

If the Steelers want to upgrade the line C or RT are the best spots to target. Jones at 32 is interesting, but really risky. He will struggle in space and is too big to move to G. His upside is there though. Wright at 49 is not a terrible pick. Wypler or Avlia (I think profiles way better at C than G, but versatility would be a plus) at 49 are also reasonable picks. I am way down on John Michael Schmitz, 24 years old and a questionable athlete even at C.


Two DL guys who could work in the 4th:
Keondre Coburn - a 2 down player, but the Steelers need a 2 down NT.
Zach Harrison - I think would be a great 3-4 DE. He would need to put on some weight, but his length is ideal.

Penn State homer picks:
Juice Scruggs - with no 5th or 6th round picks he is really unlikely. A way better athlete than he is given credit for. He has a great build for a C. I expect him to be a good starter at a deep discount.
Parker Washington - I see ratings of him all over the place. He will be a great slot WR in the NFL. If a team has a creative OC, he could be used in a variety of ways. He is built like a workhorse RB. He is great with the ball in his hands. He is still not yet 21.
Brenton Strange - Would be a great 7th round pick. Steelers might be in the market for another TE if they don't resign Gentry. He is getting overlooked in this great TE class. His productivity, size and athleticism stack up with all but the top few in this class.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

- Blake Freeland, OT, BYU

NFL Rookie Watch
@NFLRookieWatxh

Blake Freeland made himself some MONEY today at the NFL Combine.
Freeland jumped 37” in the vertical jump, which is a combine RECORD for OL.
Freeland jumped 10’ in the broad jump, which was the best among all OL.
Freeland posted a 1.68 second 10-Yard Split which was the best among OL.
Oh, and Freeland is 6’8”, 302 pounds.
The BYU tackle is a FREAK

 

[steelers1080]

Jaxon Smith-Njigba - I expect this to be the least popular choice, but the Julian Edelman comps seem legit to me. He could be a monster in the middle of the field. I think Canada would have to go for him to fulfil his promise though.
Deonte Banks - People make too much from combine numbers, but I think Banks needs some bump. His numbers are truly insane. Even before those, I thought he would have been a good pick at 32.
Nolan Smith - Another great tester. I am worried about his size even as a 3-4 OLB. However he would be scary coming to to spell Watt and Highsmith. Isn't the biggest need, but if the other 16 were gone, I would consider him BPA.

I'm currently hoping that JSN falls a bit with a slow 40. To me, he reminds me of AB just in terms of quickness out of breaks and change in direction, also really good hands. I would not be opposed to trading a future pick in order to move up from 32 and grab him if he falls to the late 20's. Getting that 5th year option is now key for great WRs (which we hope every WR we draft becomes great).

I think both Deonte and Nolan sound like Steelers picks. Nolan Smith, I wouldn't be surprised at all if he started in a kind of hybrid role ILB/OLB, especially with Highsmith as the starter. But if we can't afford Highsmith after this year, OLB becomes a giant need. Nolan Smith is just a solid teammate and seems like the kind of leader the Steelers love to have in the locker room. I could see him picking up the role of leader as Cam leaves.

Sidenote, I think we should extend Cam 2 years. He's going to be 34 at the start of the season but it gives breathing room with his contract, almost certainly makes him a Steeler his whole career, and he's still playing at a very high level. Some guys are exceptions to the typical rule, and I'm convinced that he's going to play at a very high level for at least 3 more seasons.

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

- Blake Freeland, OT, BYU

NFL Rookie Watch
@NFLRookieWatxh

Blake Freeland made himself some MONEY today at the NFL Combine.
Freeland jumped 37” in the vertical jump, which is a combine RECORD for OL.
Freeland jumped 10’ in the broad jump, which was the best among all OL.
Freeland posted a 1.68 second 10-Yard Split which was the best among OL.
Oh, and Freeland is 6’8”, 302 pounds.
The BYU tackle is a FREAK View attachment 3508

I am not high on him at all. At 6'8'' 302 is too light. He is going to need some time to build strength to make it in the NFL. His arm length if fine, but not really what you would expect for a guy his height. I think overall his height is a disadvantage. He is an interesting project pick in the 4th, but I would prefer other guys in the 4th even.

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

Jaxon Smith-Njigba - I expect this to be the least popular choice, but the Julian Edelman comps seem legit to me. He could be a monster in the middle of the field. I think Canada would have to go for him to fulfil his promise though.
Deonte Banks - People make too much from combine numbers, but I think Banks needs some bump. His numbers are truly insane. Even before those, I thought he would have been a good pick at 32.
Nolan Smith - Another great tester. I am worried about his size even as a 3-4 OLB. However he would be scary coming to to spell Watt and Highsmith. Isn't the biggest need, but if the other 16 were gone, I would consider him BPA.

I'm currently hoping that JSN falls a bit with a slow 40. To me, he reminds me of AB just in terms of quickness out of breaks and change in direction, also really good hands. I would not be opposed to trading a future pick in order to move up from 32 and grab him if he falls to the late 20's. Getting that 5th year option is now key for great WRs (which we hope every WR we draft becomes great).

I think both Deonte and Nolan sound like Steelers picks. Nolan Smith, I wouldn't be surprised at all if he started in a kind of hybrid role ILB/OLB, especially with Highsmith as the starter. But if we can't afford Highsmith after this year, OLB becomes a giant need. Nolan Smith is just a solid teammate and seems like the kind of leader the Steelers love to have in the locker room. I could see him picking up the role of leader as Cam leaves.

Sidenote, I think we should extend Cam 2 years. He's going to be 34 at the start of the season but it gives breathing room with his contract, almost certainly makes him a Steeler his whole career, and he's still playing at a very high level. Some guys are exceptions to the typical rule, and I'm convinced that he's going to play at a very high level for at least 3 more seasons.

I would extend Cam. I see no signs of hm slowing down. He could slow down a bunch and still be great.

 

[steelers1080]

Anyone else find the Jackson situation incredibly interesting? I always thought Baltimore would use the non-exclusive tag, just to show Jackson that no-one is offering a fully guaranteed deal. Since he doesn't have an agent it's apparently been hard for them to even get ahold of him at times. I thought that half the reason to use the tag would just be to get some other team to negotiate with him and the Ravens could just match. He also has none of the network available to most agents to counteract negative leaks.

I was sincerely hoping some team would offer a fully guaranteed deal and the Ravens would match and be tied to him for at least 5 years. He's been injured the last 2 years and the Steelers have historically had his number. With the amount of running he does, and his size, I think his time is numbered. The combination of injuries, current passing ability, contract demands, and no agent to negotiate with make it not too surprising that he isn't getting a flurry of interest. Lamar today isn't the same as MVP Lamar.

Will be interesting to see how this plays out but I would not be shocked if he didn't get a deal and his only choices were franchise tag, sit out, or take whatever Baltimore offers.

 

[H8fulHuck]

Anyone else find the Jackson situation incredibly interesting? I always thought Baltimore would use the non-exclusive tag, just to show Jackson that no-one is offering a fully guaranteed deal. Since he doesn't have an agent it's apparently been hard for them to even get ahold of him at times. I thought that half the reason to use the tag would just be to get some other team to negotiate with him and the Ravens could just match. He also has none of the network available to most agents to counteract negative leaks.

I was sincerely hoping some team would offer a fully guaranteed deal and the Ravens would match and be tied to him for at least 5 years. He's been injured the last 2 years and the Steelers have historically had his number. With the amount of running he does, and his size, I think his time is numbered. The combination of injuries, current passing ability, contract demands, and no agent to negotiate with make it not too surprising that he isn't getting a flurry of interest. Lamar today isn't the same as MVP Lamar.

Will be interesting to see how this plays out but I would not be shocked if he didn't get a deal and his only choices were franchise tag, sit out, or take whatever Baltimore

Feel like Baltimore will let him walk for 2 first round picks unless Lamar botches the negotiations.

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

Anyone else find the Jackson situation incredibly interesting? I always thought Baltimore would use the non-exclusive tag, just to show Jackson that no-one is offering a fully guaranteed deal. Since he doesn't have an agent it's apparently been hard for them to even get ahold of him at times. I thought that half the reason to use the tag would just be to get some other team to negotiate with him and the Ravens could just match. He also has none of the network available to most agents to counteract negative leaks.

I was sincerely hoping some team would offer a fully guaranteed deal and the Ravens would match and be tied to him for at least 5 years. He's been injured the last 2 years and the Steelers have historically had his number. With the amount of running he does, and his size, I think his time is numbered. The combination of injuries, current passing ability, contract demands, and no agent to negotiate with make it not too surprising that he isn't getting a flurry of interest. Lamar today isn't the same as MVP Lamar.

Will be interesting to see how this plays out but I would not be shocked if he didn't get a deal and his only choices were franchise tag, sit out, or take whatever Baltimore

Feel like Baltimore will let him walk for 2 first round picks unless Lamar botches the negotiations.

Atlanta might be the only team really going after him. Washington should, but they have said they are not. Tampa would make sense too. That might not drive the market to a contract Baltimore isn't willing to match.

 

[H8fulHuck]

Atlanta feels right for Lamar. Plus the team has plenty of cap space to structure the deal with a high first year salary to discourage Baltimore from matching.

 

[crushedspirit]

Nobody is going to give him a fully guaranteed contract. They can give him guarantees yes, but any owner aside from the dolt in Cleveland will want a way out after 2 or 3 years at the most.