The Pittsburgh Steelers have a 42% better chance of making a good draft pick this weekend than in some years. Of course, that’s also a 42% increased chance of screwing one up.
Thanks to trades, the Steelers have 10 draft picks. Assuming they use them all, 10 will be the most selections they have had since 2010.
For now, all it means is 42 percent more mock picks to predict. So here goes:
First round (No. 20)
Greedy Williams, LSU cornerback: Williams checks all of the boxes the Steelers tend to look for in draft picks: He’s young (won’t turn 22 until his rookie year is almost over), he played at a high level (the SEC), he was very productive (third- and second-team All American his two college seasons) and big (6-foot-2, 185 pounds).
Second round (No. 52)
Mack Wilson, Alabama inside linebacker: If the Steelers miss out on “The Devins” (White and Bush) in the first round, Wilson could be a fallback option at off-ball linebacker.
Third round (No. 66)
Chase Winovich, Michigan outside linebacker: The Steelers seem drawn to talented, charismatic, tireless defensive lineman. That he’s a Thomas Jefferson product is a bonus.
Third round (No. 83)
Miles Sanders, Penn State running back: Two years ago, the Steelers appeared relatively set at running back but picked an intriguing rusher with strong local ties. It worked with James Conner in 2017. Can it work again with Woodland Hills’ Sanders?
Fourth round (No. 122)
Andy Isabella, Massachusetts wide receiver: Isabella is small but fast, quick and versatile, and he was highly productive at the mid-major FBS level. Sounds a lot like a guy that used to be around these parts (Antonio Brown).
Fifth round (No. 141)
Ben Banogu, TCU outside linebacker: Banogu has pass-rushing skills and requisite athleticism the Steelers covet.
Sixth round (No. 175)
Ugo Amadi, Oregon defensive back: Amadi was versatile enough to play a variety of positions, and he had nine interceptions — four returned for touchdowns — in his career.
Sixth round (No. 192)
Charles Omenihu, Texas defensive lineman: The Steelers have remained relatively stagnant at defensive line in recent years, so they could use a some fresh blood.
Sixth round (No. 207)
Alize Mack, Notre Dame tight end: The Steelers almost are required to take a tight end. They have only Vance McDonald, Xavier Grimble and a trio of first-year players with no NFL regular-season experience.
Seventh round (No. 219)
Garrett Brumfield, LSU guard: Similar to defensive line, the Steelers need to replenish depth at the guard position. Brumfield was the only guard brought in for a predraft visit.
