The Pittsburgh Steelers have had an interesting few years in terms of their offensive line, and as the 2023 NFL Draft approaches, the team is gearing up to continue with their rebuilding phase. In this article, we’ll take a look at the team’s plans for the draft, including potential picks for each round and expert analysis of those selections.
Rebuilding the Offensive Line
The Steelers’ offensive line began its rebuilding phase in 2020 after the retirement of Ramon Foster and the decline of Maurkice Pouncey’s skills. However, the team struggled during that season due to injuries and a lack of solid replacements. In the 2021 offseason, key players such as Matt Feiler and Alejandro Villanueva departed, leaving holes on the offensive line that needed filling.
The Steelers addressed these needs in the 2021 NFL Draft by selecting Kendrick Green and Dan Moore Jr. However, their young and inexperienced offensive line struggled during that season. But in the 2022 offseason, the team acquired veteran offensive linemen which led to improved performance in the second half of that season.
Now, as they prepare for the 2023 draft, they’re looking to add more young talent to their offensive line so they can become a strength of the team once again.
Potential Picks in Each Round
ESPN analyst Jordan Reid released a seven-round mock draft prediction for which prospects he believes the Steelers will select in each round.
In round one (pick #17), Reid predicts that Pittsburgh will select Darnell Wright from Tennessee. An offensive tackle that could compete with Dan Moore Jr., who struggled during his first season at left tackle. Wright brings size and athleticism that could help shore up any issues on that side of the line.
Moving onto round two (pick #32), Reid predicts that Pittsburgh will select Alabama safety Brian Branch. After losing Mike Hilton to free agency, the Steelers have a hole to fill at nickel corner. Branch can bring versatility to the secondary and give the team depth at multiple positions.
Round three (pick #49) sees the Steelers adding inside linebacker Trenton Simpson from Clemson. With Vince Williams departing in free agency, Simpson can provide some much-needed depth behind Devin Bush and Joe Schobert.
In round four (pick #80), Reid predicts that Pittsburgh will select cornerback Darius Rush from South Carolina. Rush brings speed and the potential to develop into a solid outside corner while providing depth at that position.
The remaining picks include EDGE rusher Caleb Murphy from Ferris State, IDL Brodric Martin from Western Kentucky, and WR Jalen MorenoCropper from Fresno State.
Analysis of Potential Picks
While Reid’s mock draft is not based on his personal beliefs or desires, it does give us an idea of which prospects could be on the Steelers’ radar come draft day.
One player that could be a great pickup for them is Clemson’s Myles Murphy, an edge rusher. Even though the Steelers have a strong pass rush already, rotational players are important for maintaining the health of starters and increasing overall strength. Other potential edge rushers include Lukas Van Ness.
The Steelers could benefit greatly from drafting Ohio State’s Dawand Jones with their second pick. However, there are concerns about whether he can maintain his weight and discipline in order to stay effective at left tackle. Analysis of OL Coach Pat Meyer’s scheme could inform this decision.
In addition to offensive tackle, cornerbacks and inside linebacker/box safety are also positions they’ll want to address. Julius Brents, a promising boundary corner out of Iowa, could be a solid pick in the second round. DeMarvion Overshown is also worth considering in round three, as he could help address needs at inside linebacker and box safety.
Conclusion and Fan Input
While we won’t know for sure who the Steelers will select in the 2023 NFL Draft until the day arrives, it’s exciting to speculate on which prospects could potentially join the team. It’s clear they have a few key areas to address, including offensive line, cornerback, and inside linebacker/box safety.
What do you think of Jordan Reid’s mock draft predictions for the Pittsburgh Steelers? Do you agree with them, or are there other prospects you think would be a better fit for the team? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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