Team Needs
Team Needs:
OT
OG
CB
WR
C
DT
DE
The Skinny: The Steelers continue to have problems on the OL. They were able to gel long enough for a Super playoff run in 2008, but the problems manifested themselves again at times in 2009. Under Bruce Arians, the Steelers have been a pass-first offense, and with as long as Big Ben holds onto the ball, you need adequate pass protection - which is something they haven't had. The other major problem the team encountered this season was surprisingly, the defensive unit's inability to stop teams, specifically through the air. True, a lot of that would be remedied with a healthy Troy Polamalu, but Ike Taylor, Deshea Townsend, William Gay and Co. did not get the job done in his absence, and the Steelers will be looking to beef up their secondary with quality cover corners. Also, it is time to start thinking about the future after NT Casey Hampton and ILB James Farrior, who are aging fast.
4/15 Update: WR and former Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes was dealt to the NYJ for a draft pick. The Steelers brought in another former Super Bowl MVP and Steeler Antwaan Randle El to help fill the void left by Holmes. They also signed former Steeler ILB Larry Foote for depth, as well as S Will Allen, and WR Arnaz Battle.
Mock Draft
1
-18.
OG
Mike Iupati,
Idaho
The Skinny: It is rare to see guards go this high, but Iupati is the top offensive guard available in this draft and should provide an immediate upgrade to the Steeler interior offensive line. We could also see the Steelers going after a wide receiver after shipping Santonio Holmes out of town, but it just doesn't seem like the Steelers' style.
2
-20.
CB
Chris Cook,
Virginia
The Skinny: After addressing the offensive line in the first round, Pitt flips to the defensive side of the ball.