This is a unique draft for the Pittsburgh Steelers. And not just because of the virtual nature of it.
The Steelers lack a first-round pick for the first time in more than a half-century. They also enter the draft with the fewest picks they have had in decades (six). In 2003, they ended with five picks, but that was because of a deal they made during the draft.
The conference-call format, lack of recent in-person visits with prospects and diminished draft capital all contribute to plenty of added intrigue. There could be some eyebrow-raising surprises, from the Steelers and other teams.
Still, some things can be anticipated, judging by the weaker areas of the Steelers roster. Here’s a crack at pegging what they might do:
Second round (No. 49)
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB, LSU: No matter how many times the Steelers insist they are happy with their running backs, it’s likely they still want to add one. If Edwards-Helaire is available here, it would be too good to pass up.
I think Clyde Edwards-Helaire is the RB I'll write about for "know your draft crush." Really like his lateral agility, vision/decisiveness, and balance through contact. pic.twitter.com/cgvP56TEuR
— Seth Keysor (@RealMNchiefsfan) April 20, 2020
Third round, comp. (No. 102)
Damien Lewis, OG, LSU: Why not make Friday an all-national titlists day and let Edwards-Helaire bring one of his best blockers with him from Baton-Rogue to Pittsburgh? Adding youth to the offensive line is a must in this draft.
Fourth round (No. 124)
Alex Highsmith, OLB, Charlotte: The Steelers need some pass-rushing bodies, and Highsmith was productive (14 sacks as a senior) in Conference USA. He has potential to develop during a “redshirt” NFL year.
Fourth round (No. 135)
Tyler Johnson, WR, Minnesota: The Steelers stockpile receivers. They’ve taken at least one in eight consecutive drafts and 17 in their past 15 drafts. Johnson lacks elite measurables, but he produces and excels at contested catches. Mike Tomlin loves that.
Sixth round (No. 198)
Raequan Williams, DT, Michigan State: The Steelers could use fresh blood on their interior defensive line. Williams is worth a late-round flier after showing flashes of dominance in the Big Ten.
Seventh round (No. 232)
Khaleke Hudson, ILB/S, Michigan: The Steelers would probably like to draft a safety and an inside linebacker. The risk with Hudson, a McKeesport alum, is that he’s neither. But he’s worth a shot as a chess-piece playmaker. At worst, he has potential to thrive on special teams.
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