is it too soon to talk 2015 draft ?

[Dwinsgames]

ok ok ok , I won't go there YET ....


but interesting kid to keep a watchful eye on between now and then http://nfldraftinsight.wordpress.com/2014/04/06/larry-butler-iii-southern-nazarene-linebacker-2016-nfl-draft-prospect/

[Steelerette]

Sheesh you beat me to it by a handful of minutes, while I was doing some homework. lol

[Texasteel]

I'm already looking at some CBs and OTs.

[st33lersguy]

Way too soon, stock is going to change based on the 2014 college season and players in some mock drafts are going to return to school.

[Aussie_steeler]

Way too soon, stock is going to change based on the 2014 college season and players in some mock drafts are going to return to school.

Never to early.

We had Gilbert and Fuller slated as stars before they even made it into the top 65 on the nfldraftscout site.

Granted we struck out with many but LLT, Tex and Dwins have proven eyes for talent.

[Aussie_steeler]

Task 1: identify 2015 free agents

Starters: Jason Worilds, Ike Taylor, Maurkice Pouncey, Shaun Suisham, Cortez Allen, Marcus Gilbert

Most notable holes LOLB and CB if players walk.

Who are the obvious signings??

Task 2: Identify 2016 Free agents

Roethlisberger, Heyward, McClendon, DeCastro, Foster, Adams, Beachum, Gradkowski, Gay.

O-line looks like it could lose a possible player or two.

If I am scouting for 2015 draft I would start with

1. CB
2. O-line ( Guard and Tackle)
3. LB ( they always draft LB's)

[dislocatedday]

Steelers will be able to pickup option year on DeCastro, keeping him through 2017 before he becomes a free agent.

[Aussie_steeler]

Steelers will be able to pickup option year on DeCastro, keeping him through 2017 before he becomes a free agent.

good pickup tedday

Keep forgetting about the new CBA conditions for rookie contracts

[tube517]

I'm already looking at some CBs and OTs.

Why? We won't draft any? :chuckle:

[Steelerette]

CB is one of the riskier positions to take in the draft. Nobody's ever a sure thing but CB can be especially tricky.

I'd almost rather just keep making sure we have special talent in the front 7 and field somewhat above average CBs that we pick up in free agency, while of course hoping to hit on a developmental guy like Shaq Richardson (or Ike Taylor...)

[Aussie_steeler]

The steelers will always draft a CB in the 4th or 5th to see if they can develop them.

If they don't work out no big deal. Look at Curtis Brown and he was taken in the 3rd.

I am sure LeBeau believes nearly anyone can play CB in his system if he has a dominant front 7 that creates pressure and turnovers.

Scout tall guys, run fast, like to tackle and have played of the LOS consistently

[venom]

With the 32nd pick of the First Round , the Pittsburgh Steelers select................................

[Dwinsgames]

With the 32nd pick of the First Round , the Pittsburgh Steelers select................................

Brandon Scherff, OT, Iowa.

[venom]

Brandon Scherff, OT, Iowa.

He wouldn't have to change his jersey , lol

[Texasteel]

Brandon Scherff, OT, Iowa.

I would love that pick. Probably would have to finish worse than 8-8 to get him though.

How about Ben Koyack, TE, ND.

[Steelerette]

With the 32nd pick of the First Round , the Pittsburgh Steelers select................................

CB Wayne Lyons, Stanford.

Not only is he a freakish athlete, already somewhat polished, and NFL ready (and he hasn't even played his senior campaign yet), but he's extremely intelligent, a cerebral leader who really understands what he's doing out there on the football field and can make the people around him better.

With all how awesome our front seven is going to be once these guys step up... it's time to draft him and put the nail in the coffin.

[Texasteel]

After looking at a few players, I've already watched a three of them, I have started a watch list of players I think the Steelers might be interested in in the 2015 draft.

CBs, Wayne Lyons of Stanford, Byron Jones of Connecticut, and Laclarius Gunter of Miami. All three are nice size, Gunter is the biggest at 6'2", 200 lbs. and are highly ranked at this time.

OTs, Brandon Scheriff of Iowa, and Cameron Erving of Florida ST. Both backed out of this years draft to go back to school, probably a good decision. Was for Iowa anyway.

TE. There are a couple, but for what we want I like NDs Ben Koyack. Most Miller like of the TEs. I've seen.

[Aussie_steeler]

I have been looking at LT's Tex.

The two that stand out for me at the moment are

1. Brandon Scherff
2. Cameron Erving

Both are very LT capable. I like how they hold their feet and pick up the rush comfortably. Both look strong against the run

Scherff looks like a beast in the run game, locking onto his man and driving them into the next county.


Mike Munchak was given one draftee to work with ( Wesley Johnson) with plans of becoming a swingman who will likely backup primarily at OG and OC.
I think they give Munchak a TRUE LT if he works wonders on the O line this year.

Then again if he works wonders they wont need to draft a LT if Beachum becomes the man.


I was disappointed with Andrus Peat ( Stanford). He is getting rave reviews. I don't like guys who leave their feet. He seemed to be on the ground too much for my liking.

Cedric Ogbuehi ( Texas A&M) needs to spend the season at LT before I can really comment. A&M has been a left tackle factory the past few seasons and he may well be the pick of them. He looks very comfortable at RT and dominated on that side.

[Hindes204]

You guys are nuts, lol. But I appreciate you guys doing the work, I don't have the time or dedication you guys have. I appreciate the research you guys do, all I have to do is come on here and read a little bit and I'm set

[Texasteel]

You guys are nuts, lol. But I appreciate you guys doing the work, I don't have the time or dedication you guys have. I appreciate the research you guys do, all I have to do is come on here and read a little bit and I'm set

Yea, I know,,,,,,,, but the headaches are getting better, and I hear the voices less and less. The police will be taking this thing of my ankle next month.

By the way bud, if you get a chance to watch Iowa, keep an eye on Carl Davis, DT. Some think he is a top 3 or 4 DT. May not be for the Steelers, but a lot of fun to watch.

[Texasteel]

I have been looking at LT's Tex.

The two that stand out for me at the moment are

1. Brandon Scherff
2. Cameron Erving

Both are very LT capable. I like how they hold their feet and pick up the rush comfortably. Both look strong against the run

Scherff looks like a beast in the run game, locking onto his man and driving them into the next county.


Mike Munchak was given one draftee to work with ( Wesley Johnson) with plans of becoming a swingman who will likely backup primarily at OG and OC.
I think they give Munchak a TRUE LT if he works wonders on the O line this year.

Then again if he works wonders they wont need to draft a LT if Beachum becomes the man.


I was disappointed with Andrus Peat ( Stanford). He is getting rave reviews. I don't like guys who leave their feet. He seemed to be on the ground too much for my liking.

Cedric Ogbuehi ( Texas A&M) needs to spend the season at LT before I can really comment. A&M has been a left tackle factory the past few seasons and he may well be the pick of them. He looks very comfortable at RT and dominated on that side.

You know how I love the big uglies bud, but don't thing we will have a shot at any of the top 4, at least I hope we don't. Besides, if the line turns it around like we hope they will, doubt we would spend a 1st round pick on a LT. For right now I plan to pay a lot attention to the TEs. Like I said before Koyack may be my favorite, but a lot can change in the coming monthes.

[Dwinsgames]

I have been looking at LT's Tex.

The two that stand out for me at the moment are

1. Brandon Scherff
2. Cameron Erving

Both are very LT capable. I like how they hold their feet and pick up the rush comfortably. Both look strong against the run

Scherff looks like a beast in the run game, locking onto his man and driving them into the next county.


Mike Munchak was given one draftee to work with ( Wesley Johnson) with plans of becoming a swingman who will likely backup primarily at OG and OC.
I think they give Munchak a TRUE LT if he works wonders on the O line this year.

Then again if he works wonders they wont need to draft a LT if Beachum becomes the man.


I was disappointed with Andrus Peat ( Stanford). He is getting rave reviews. I don't like guys who leave their feet. He seemed to be on the ground too much for my liking.

Cedric Ogbuehi ( Texas A&M) needs to spend the season at LT before I can really comment. A&M has been a left tackle factory the past few seasons and he may well be the pick of them. He looks very comfortable at RT and dominated on that side.


Me and Tex both touched on these two prior to the 2014 draft when we thought their was a chance they would declare ... in what thread you ask ? only thing I can can say with any degree of certainty is it was this section of the forum LOL

[Texasteel]

I'm starting to hear a little talk about Scherff not only being the first OT off the board, but being the number one player taken in the 2015 draft. A long ways to go, but if Iowa has a good year, and the line, lead by Scherff, plays up to their potential, who knows.

[LLT]

After looking at a few players, I've already watched a three of them, I have started a watch list of players I think the Steelers might be interested in in the 2015 draft.

CBs, Wayne Lyons of Stanford, Byron Jones of Connecticut, and Laclarius Gunter of Miami. All three are nice size, Gunter is the biggest at 6'2", 200 lbs. and are highly ranked at this time.



I have an eye on Trae Waynes, the CB from Michigan State. I saw a lot of him last year as I watched Darqueze Dennard...and I think he is going to be a solid first round pick. 6'1 185 lbs and runs in the mid 4.4's.

Good size speed combination and seems to be incredibly athletic.

[Texasteel]

I have an eye on Trae Waynes, the CB from Michigan State. I saw a lot of him last year as I watched Darqueze Dennard...and I think he is going to be a solid first round pick. 6'1 185 lbs and runs in the mid 4.4's.

Good size speed combination and seems to be incredibly athletic.

Being a Big Ten fan I'm going to have plenty of chances to watch Waynes. There were games last year that I thought he looked better than Dennard. To be honest I think I like this years crop of CBs better than last years, overall.

[TMC]

I'm starting to hear a little talk about Scherff not only being the first OT off the board, but being the number one player taken in the 2015 draft. A long ways to go, but if Iowa has a good year, and the line, lead by Scherff, plays up to their potential, who knows.

I was talking with a guy about Scherff the other day. He had Scherff as his #1 guy. I need more film. I like him a lot, but he has a little hitch in his pass pro and, to me, it is either being a touch less athletic than the truly elite LTs or he needs a little better technique work. Fine line, sometimes it looks like he is not moving fast enough and is barely getting to his spot, other times, it is technique. Not sure if the technique breakdown is because he is compensating. Of course, could just be me, but I want more film.

Really like Cameron Erving as a LT. Oddly enough, after watching Beachum in the first preseason game, I am starting to think we may have a potential fix there. He has taken a big leap forward from last season if he continues to play like he did in the 1st preseason game.

At corner, I kind of like the kid from Wake Forest, Kevin Johnson. He has some room to improve and is a little thin, but he has good height and speed. He shows some ability to play various coverages. Long, good ball skills, great leaper. He plays with some confidence and I do not think he gets into the upper rounds.

[Texasteel]

Been reading about a posible influxe of JR. CBs joining the 2015 draft, with names like, Trea Waynes, and Marcus Peters. If this does happen we could see a draft starting something like

Trea Waynes, CB
Tre' Jackson, OG
Ben Koyack, TE

[Dwinsgames]

the pos I have scratched off my 1st round wish list is QB , LB , DE , S , RB

I am open to CB , WR ,TE , OT , OG .. I could scratch WR between now and draft day dependent upon how this current group works out

as of Today CB and TE seem to be the most glaring long term need for me moving forward

[Texasteel]

My, very early, thinking is this Dwins. The CBs we have now still look to be in need of an upgrade. I still think if Fuller would have been there when we drafted, he would be a Steeler. Waynes may be the most like Fuller in next years draft, infact I have heard him called a young Fuller. If the underclass CBs I have been hearing about do come out that could push Waynes down in the draft to where I am hoping we will be drafting. Waynes one knock is that he has a lean frame and needs to get stronger, I think a good weight coach could fix that.

I think we will continue to work on the O-line, but on the inside, not the outside. Jackson is athletic enough to stay with his man in pass blocking, and enough of a road grader to drive his man 5 years of the ball in the running game. I really liked Jackson last year, and was glad he went back to school..

Koyack is my favorite TE right now, but I see a couple three TEs that will be graded ahead of him. I think Bens game is very much like CJs. Think if we could get him in the third would likely end up a steal. Will be watching him every chance I get this year.

[86WARD]

WR, CB, OLB, Defense, K, P, OL

[Aussie_steeler]

I am with you Tex. I like Koyack a lot. Hoping for a 3rd / 4th round pick at this point.

I think the pass rush blows as much as Haleys playcalling. I let Worilds walk because I cannot justify double digit salary numbers for his production.

For me:

Round 1: Dante Fowler DE / OLB Florida ( Woodley like pass rusher)
Round 2: Cameron Erving OT Florida State ( Will go first round. I can dream at this point of the process)
Round 3: Doran Grant CB Ohio State
Round 4: Ben Koyack TE

Anything other than Pass rush, O line, Cornerback and Tight end and I know for sure and certain that Tomlin and Colbert are also riding in LeVeon Bells Camaro.

[Texasteel]

I am with you Tex. I like Koyack a lot. Hoping for a 3rd / 4th round pick at this point.

I think the pass rush blows as much as Haleys playcalling. I let Worilds walk because I cannot justify double digit salary numbers for his production.

For me:

Round 1: Dante Fowler DE / OLB Florida ( Woodley like pass rusher)
Round 2: Cameron Erving OT Florida State ( Will go first round. I can dream at this point of the process)
Round 3: Doran Grant CB Ohio State
Round 4: Ben Koyack TE

Anything other than Pass rush, O line, Cornerback and Tight end and I know for sure and certain that Tomlin and Colbert are also riding in LeVeon Bells Camaro.

There is a whole season to play out before we get a good feel on the direction of the draft, and the play of Jones and Whorlds will have a lot to do with it. How ever, from what I see on paper, and in preseason so far, it will take something drastic to take the Steelers mind off of CB, unless, like this year they just don't beleive the CBs left are worthy the pick.

I think the pass rush will get better as the D-Line gets better, and I think they will. Jones had to deal with one of the best LTs one on one all night. The inside LBs had a guard to deal with most of the night, poor Ryan had to be thinking they were playing with 4 guards at times, talk about rookie shock. I believe the D-Line will start to gel, and take some of the pressure off the LBs.

For now I am sticking with CB, OL(if that guy is Erving I will be extreamly happy) and Koyack.

[Texasteel]

Did anyone else watch Kyle Fuller play tonight,,,,,,, Damn Chicago.

[Drazo85]

I have watched East Carolina upset over Virginia Tech saturday, and come away with one name. Terry Williams. 6`1 353 and he can move and how. Watched some tape from his junior year, same thing. He has a sick spin move for guy that big. Sheds blockers with ease, pure run stopper. Thing that concern me, is his suspensions. He was suspended twice, drug arrest and violating team policy.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjmQq7KepA4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZ3OtN3_8d8

[Texasteel]

If the underclassmen come out that I expect to the top 5 CBs could end up, Ifl Ekpre-Olomu, Josh Shaw, Trae Waynes, Marcus Peters, PJ William. 3 of the 5 are Jr.s and Shaw could end up a safty.

I may be time to stop drafting CBs that may be able to play for us, and take one that will be able to play for us. Personally I like Williams at the moment.

[Aussie_steeler]

If the underclassmen come out that I expect to the top 5 CBs could end up, Ifl Ekpre-Olomu, Josh Shaw, Trae Waynes, Marcus Peters, PJ William. 3 of the 5 are Jr.s and Shaw could end up a safty.

I may be time to stop drafting CBs that may be able to play for us, and take one that will be able to play for us. Personally I like Williams at the moment.

I will go on record and say I am a Marcus Peters Man.

Not sold on Waynes yet. Just don't a confident read on his game film.

[Dwinsgames]

If the underclassmen come out that I expect to the top 5 CBs could end up, Ifl Ekpre-Olomu, Josh Shaw, Trae Waynes, Marcus Peters, PJ William. 3 of the 5 are Jr.s and Shaw could end up a safty.

I may be time to stop drafting CBs that may be able to play for us, and take one that will be able to play for us. Personally I like Williams at the moment.


here here !!

- - - Updated - - -


Did anyone else watch Kyle Fuller play tonight,,,,,,, Damn Chicago.

he was my guy of the crop ......

thus far clearly leading the way as top of the rookie class in the Defensive Backfield

[SteelerFanInStl]

The Steelers just seem to be inept when it comes to evaluating CB talent. So many bad picks over the years.

I really wanted us to take E.J. Gaines last year. He lasted until the 5th round and has been starting for the Rams (due to an injury) and playing pretty well.

[Texasteel]

I will go on record and say I am a Marcus Peters Man.

Not sold on Waynes yet. Just don't a confident read on his game film.

There were games last year that I thought Waynes was the best CB at Michigan St., but think Peters will be a better player. Of course depending were we draft, I think Ekpre-Olomu, and Williams may both be gone, leaving us with Peters which would be just fine with me.

Remember last year, I said I didn't like the CBs very much? (Except for a couple players) I like this years kids much better.

[st33lersguy]

I think corner really has to be a high priority. They really need to address the position and not wait to the 5th to draft a guy they are going to cut. Haven't been following the draft class very closely yet though, so I can't really say who I would want. I always wait til the Steelers season is over to start focusing on the draft.

[Texasteel]

Two kids that I do find interesting, that could go in the 3rd or 4th rounds, are Byron Jones, CB for Connecticut, and Steven Nelson CB for Oregon ST.

[Dwinsgames]

Kyle Fuller killing it again tonight with another pick and a FF .... damn those Bears

[Dwinsgames]

Kyle Fuller killing it again tonight with another pick and a FF .... damn those Bears

scratch that its now 1 INT 2 FF vs Jets

[NCSteeler]

Fuller is having a hell of a start to his rookie season. Absolutely amazing. The guy is a ball hawk

[Texasteel]

There is no doubt in my mind that Fuller would have been a Steeler if he would have made it past the Bears. I now hate the Bears.

[Aussie_steeler]

Fair to say that the Steelers Universe War room absolutely nailed it with our cumulative assessment of Kyle Fuller.

Over the years we have nailed some good players with our PIMPs. (Fuller and Benjamin were my two last year and both are looking very good so far)

Challenge is on to find our 2015 star.

[Aussie_steeler]

I am already sold on Marcus Peters but my CB to keep an eye out for is Steven Nelson Oregon State.

Still trying to gauge the true speed of some of these guys, however Peters, PJ Williams and Nelson all look like strong, sure tacklers who play CB in the steelers mould.

[Steeltreal]

Colbert had faith in Allen, and picked up insurance for Spence, Fuller would most likely rot on the bench as a rookie here.
But yeah onto 2015.

[st33lersguy]

Looks to me like we are gonna get a top 10 pick this year. Let's get PJ Williams

[st33lersguy]

1 round mock draft for the Steelers

1st round Leonard Williams

[Count Steeler]

Take the best CB on the board when it is our turn to pick. No question about it.

[Steelerette]

1. CB PJ Williams
2. NT Jordan Phillips
3. CB Charles Gaines
4. CB Byron Jones
5. CB Wayne Lyons
6. CB Demetrious Nicholson
7. TE Pharaoh Brown

[Shoes]

No, its not too soon. The needs seem many, DB, LT, TE etc…. GM, Head Coach, OC, DC :chuckle:

[st33lersguy]

CB, OT, and OLB are currently the biggest needs right now.

[Dwinsgames]

based on what I am witnessing , 1 draft wont come close to fixing this team ( esp at how poorly we normally draft ) unless Goodell gives us 20 picks and someone other than Colbert/Tomlin make them

[Texasteel]

based on what I am witnessing , 1 draft wont come close to fixing this team ( esp at how poorly we normally draft ) unless Goodell gives us 20 picks and someone other than Colbert/Tomlin make them

This year draft is already becoming a large question mark. What if we do end up in the top 7 or 8 teams. That could put us in the running for an OT like Scherff, but another kid I like , Erving should be there later in the draft.

What if our pass rush don't come around, and we let Whorlds. walk. Would Randy Gregory, or Vic Beasley be attractive to us.

CBs Peters and Williams are moving up the board quickly, but in the top 8 or 10 would not be out of our reach. There should be a couple of second round CBs there that are looking pretty good right now.

AND,,,,,,,,,,, Is it time to try an find a QB to fill in for Ben if needed, and some day replace him.

Lots of question may very well show themselves in the next couple of months.

[Dwinsgames]

This year draft is already becoming a large question mark. What if we do end up in the top 7 or 8 teams. That could put us in the running for an OT like Scherff, but another kid I like , Erving should be there later in the draft.

What if our pass rush don't come around, and we let Whorlds. walk. Would Randy Gregory, or Vic Beasley be attractive to us.

CBs Peters and Williams are moving up the board quickly, but in the top 8 or 10 would not be out of our reach. There should be a couple of second round CBs there that are looking pretty good right now.

AND,,,,,,,,,,, Is it time to try an find a QB to fill in for Ben if needed, and some day replace him.

Lots of question may very well show themselves in the next couple of months.

I suggested last year we where a few drafts away without major change of being " competitive " and by competitive I mean contender ...

at some point Ben has to be a concern ... yes I know he is the best we have had since or maybe including Bradshaw but not going to start that debate here for obvious reasons ... Ben is getting no younger ... do we sit and waist the last few years of his "title run window " with a team incapable of making a big run or do we use him to leverage ourselves into a position to shorten our rebuild time and stay better longer ...

I was in favor of trading him last year to enable the team to get better sooner rather than later , most opposed this ... now we sit in the same situation with a team clearly not going any place and Ben yet another year older in the process ...

Ben is not the problem , but he is not part of the long term answer either ...

IF a team a QB away from a title run makes me the right offer I am not so sure I am quick to hang up the phone ... just sayin

[Aussie_steeler]

I am over the current Front Office failures. Cant stomach having to debate the mess going on.

Time to throw out some scenarios that our Front Office would never have the balls to contemplate.

Free Agent signing
Parameters:
1. Steelers earn a 4th round compensation pick for Emmanuel Sanders.
2. Steelers resign the following free agents: TE Matt Spaeth, CB Brice McCain, LS Greg Warren, LB Arthur Moats,
3. Steelers tender the following free agents: SAF Robert Golden, FB Will Johnson, LB Terrence Garvin, OG Chris Hubbard, and WR Justin Brown
5. Let Jason Worilds walk, Cut Cam Thomas, Ramon Foster & Lance Moore, Ike Taylor, Heath Miller & Troy Polamalu retire.
6. Big Ben signs the contract he deserves allowing him to retire a steeler
7. Use the freed up cap space to sign a quality free agent pass rusher -- Justin Houston 5year $60 Million contract ( I know its big but we have already told Worilds he is worth $10M a year)

Round 1: Brandon Scherff OT Iowa ( Protect Bens Blindside)
Round 2: Lorenzo Mauldin OLB Louisville ( rotate with Jarvis Jones - time for a quality pass rush rotation)
Round 3: Doran Grant CB Ohio State ( plays like a LeBeau corner and is an Ohio State alum.)
Round 4: Ben Koyack TE Notre Dame ( Heath Miller like)
Round 4 Comp: Steven Nelson CB Oregon State ( I like his physical style)
Round 5: Tyrus Thompson OT / OG Oklahoma ( swing man who can play both tackle positions and would be a road grader at OG)
Round 6: SS / WR ( Still scouting)
Round 7: WR / SS ( Still scouting)

Don't have any late round gems as yet.


Lets get some draft talk going

[Texasteel]

Not a bad mock Aussie. See what you think of this one.

1.P.J. Williams, CB, Florida St. Like Peters as well but think he may be gone.
2. Cameron Erving, OT, Florida St.
3. Ben Kayack, TE, ND
4. Steven Nelson, CB, Oregon St. Actually there are 2 fourth round CBs I like.
4. Chucky Hunter, DT, TCU
5 John Miller, OG, Louisville
6. Ibraheim Campbell, SS, Northwestern. Big hitter, can tackle
7. Mark Weisman, FB, Iowa. Been playing at tailback for the last couple of years. Never seems to be knocked backwards.

Take the money we were going to give Worlds and buy a pass rush.

[Steeltreal]

Im with Dwins, some may feel he deserves the extension, but this is an Earn it Season, so 6 weeks in its to early.

[Aussie_steeler]

Not a bad mock Aussie. See what you think of this one.

1.P.J. Williams, CB, Florida St. Like Peters as well but think he may be gone.
2. Cameron Erving, OT, Florida St.
3. Ben Kayack, TE, ND
4. Steven Nelson, CB, Oregon St. Actually there are 2 fourth round CBs I like.
4. Chucky Hunter, DT, TCU
5 John Miller, OG, Louisville
6. Ibraheim Campbell, SS, Northwestern. Big hitter, can tackle
7. Mark Weisman, FB, Iowa. Been playing at tailback for the last couple of years. Never seems to be knocked backwards.

Take the money we were going to give Worlds and buy a pass rush.

I know the first four names well and would take all of them.

The next four are new to me. ( Need to scout them out)

My research has shown that Peters may have a bit of a 2cent brain. He was recently suspended for a game and forced to earn his way back into the starting line up due to a massive brainfart ( headbutt) and verbal explosion at his coaches. Keen to watch the rest of his year. He can play CB but he may have some liabilities.


I am really starting to like Lorenzo Mauldin at OLB. He plays standing up and rushes from all LB spots. Strong against the run and drops well. I can see him rising into the top 20 come 2015.

I am guessing you are being sneaky and not naming a certain LT who plays for your beloved Hawkeyes. I know you love him, but I will respect your reverse draft juju but not putting the kiss of death on him.

[Dwinsgames]

kid to keep an eye on MSU TE Josiah Price ... really impressive 1st half today has to be close to 100 yards receiving and made 2 REALLY nice catches , really nice hands ...6'4 251

[Steeltreal]

can we just stockpile Runningbacks, Ameer Abdullah is awesome.

[Dwinsgames]

Redskins 4th round pick ( one of my pimps ) Breeland showed up big tonight , would have been nice to take a CB like him last draft

[Texasteel]

Redskins 4th round pick ( one of my pimps ) Breeland showed up big tonight , would have been nice to take a CB like him last draft

Breeland in the 3rd round would have made this an extremely good draft. Assuming they would play him.

[SteelerFanInStl]

Breeland in the 3rd round would have made this an extremely good draft. Assuming they would play him.

You know he'd still be sitting on the bench if we drafted him. :lol:

I'd take him in a heartbeat over Archer.

[Texasteel]

You know he'd still be sitting on the bench if we drafted him. :lol:

I'd take him in a heartbeat over Archer.

Don't know about that. with Ike out and with aliens taking Allen off and leaving a poor clone to replace him, Breeland might have see more playing time than we think. I am still very high on this years CBs Williams, Waynes, and the forgotten man, Ekpre-Oloma, and think that one of them will likely be there when we pick, even if we do go further than we thought we might. I also like a few 3rd or 4th round CBs, my favorite being Steve Nelson. I would like us take two CBs this year. One in the 1st and one in the 4th. Williams and Nelson would make me happy. That might make up for missing on Fuller and Breeland.

[Dwinsgames]

The Redskins have a pair of my pimp projects from the last 2 drafts actually Amerson and Breeland

[Texasteel]

Mid season Mock draft, filled with what ifs. What if, Adams stays at RT, and the line stays solid. What if the LBers play up to their potential and continue to put pressure on the other teams QBs. What if we have finally found someone that can hold down the NT position and continues to make the running game difficult plus put pressure on the OL.

1. PJ Williams, CB. Williams is not lighting fast but has good speed and looks to have a second gear that helps him recover from mistake, both his and his teammates. A fluid player that has good hand to intercept the passes he should, and knock the ball away from the WR. Looks to be a player that can play in our system.

2. Cody Prewitt, FS. Prewitt is a big FS, 6"2, 210 lbs with long arms, Normally plays deep for Old Miss. Not a devastating hitter, but can tackle, pretty good in the open field. Has good hand, that and his long wing span helps him make the ints. that we haven't been seeing from our secondary. Leads the SEC in ints this years.

3. Ben Koyack, TE. Ben is having a pretty good year, and is one of the reasons that ND is having a very good year. A good blocking TE that can catch the ball. He is moving up the draft chart, shouldn't have started talking about him, and may be gone late in the 2nd round or early 3rd. This a kid I would try to trade up to get.

4. Steve Nelson, CB. Nelson has a muscular build that will fight through blockers and tackle larger RBs. He has strong hand that will pull down the int, or strip the ball for the ball carrier. Like to jam the WR at the line of scrimmage. Will make put a body on the WR in coverage and may draw a call or two for that in todays NFL.

4. If we do draw a 4th round comp pick. Cory Robinson, OT. I don't think he would ever play at LT, but could make a pretty good RT. Personally I think his NFL future will be at OG.

5. Chucky Hunter, DT. A high character kid with a quick first step. A little short, but can get through blockers on his way to the ball carrier.

6. Ibraheim Campbell, SS, Northwestern. Big hitter, can tackle

7. Mark Weisman, FB, Iowa. Been playing at tailback for the last couple of years. Never seems to be knocked backwards.

[Steelerette]

Alright, time to take another more serious crack:

1. - Trade down! PJ Williams and Eric Peters are gone, man. We won too many games. But it's okay. We trade into the top of the 2nd and pick up an extra 3rd and 6th as thanks.

2a. CB Alex Carter, Stanford. Nice football body, nose for the ball, leader of that Stanford Secondary. We're going to be stubborn anyways so it's okay if he needs a little development.

2b. OLB Eric Striker, Oklahoma. If he finishes the year as well as he started, he'll be declaring. Disruptive dude, damn fast for a linebacker - though he will need to add some muscle, he's got a frame that can take it. The kid plays MEAN, and he's got a great name for a pass rusher too.

3a. OT Ty Sambrailo, Colorado State. Some injuries and being in the Mountain West help him fall, but in the 3rd he's too good to pass up. Munch gets his versatile O-lineman who's got size, strength, can play guard or maybe RT immediately, and probably (after some development... he's not ready) play LT.

3b. WR Quinshad Davis, North Carolina. Because the only thing better than one Martavis Bryant... is two Martavis Bryants. Okay, he's not that fast, but still fast for a big guy. I think it's clear that the big-time passing game is what we're going to have to be about the next few seasons. Might seem like a reach with Brown, Wheaton, and Bryant, but that's still only three WRs. J.Brown isn't as good as we hoped and DHB needs to go yesterday, and Moore just isn't a sure thing. We're in the waning years of a HOF QB's career, so let's give him all the toys, and win some football games.

4. TE Jeff Heuerman, Ohio State. Diamond in the rough here... okay, 4.83, but we have speed guys (and Heath ran a 4.87 after all) and that's not what you use your TE for anyways. He's physically everything you want in a TE, good hands, pretty decent blocker, but Ohio State is seriously misusing the guy which will be good news to us, allowing us to grab him in the 4th. He's that great big target who can learn for a year and be the eventual successor to Miller... and be that last piece of the puzzle to make the Post-Ben QB transition a little bit easier.

5. NT Terry Williams, East Carolina. Buh-bye, Cam Thomas. Again, overlooked a little for playing in the AAC but damn, this kid does nothing but wreck O-lines. He can split time with McLendon and McCullers, learn the system, boom or bust prospect but man, if he booms... what a boom it's going to be.

6a. SS Isaiah Johnson, Georgia Tech. It's a pretty big Safety class. He has some injury and development issues to work through, but that's okay because he's going to ride the pine anyways. Will develop into a nice backup with the tools to really challenge for a starting spot... the kid is a ballplayer.

6b. CB/FS Tim Scott, North Carolina. Because we seem to like these guys who are good at being versatile instead of good at playing their position. Quality backup/nickel/special teams maybe. Seems like he's going to need time to learn discipline and study the defense. Quick (enough) and nice size anyway.

7. OG Tyler Moore, Florida. A left guard prospect who is versatile enough to fill in anywhere on the line. A little underrated due to attitude and to injuries - both to himself and other teammates, causing him to miss time, play at multiple positions, etc. Still has a spark of potential to be something much more than he's been, but will take some development. I can see Munchak doing good work on the kid.

[Texasteel]

Great to get new thoughts.

I think Trae Waynes could move pass Williams on teams draft charts. That might leave Williams and Ekpre-Olomu in the 4th and 5th CB ratings. I would rather have Williams because of size, but some teams may take Ekpre-Olomu because of his speed. That is why I think Williams could be there when we draft even later in the first

If Sambrailo make it out of the first or early second I will be a little surprised. Just my opinion though.

[Steelerette]

Is Williams going to be a penalty machine in the pros? While he can run with his guy sure, a lot of the video I'm watching, it seems like he's not afraid to truck his assignment whether the ball is there yet or not.

[Steelerette]

And just look at those baby blues and scruffy red beard.

http://recruits.s3.amazonaws.com/images%2F1Moore.JPG

I think I want to... marry Tyler Moore.

[ / bad joke ]

[Steelerette]

I wouldn't mind signing Connor Halliday to the udfa -> IR Practice Squad.

[Dwinsgames]

doubt he declares for 2015 draft but small school kid I am all over if he does is Larry Butler , has potential to play all 4 LB slots in the 3-4 , currently goes back and forth between LB and DE in his current system dependent upon down / distance and opponent

class act who works very hard and has very good read /react skills if you get a chance get a look at this young man

( number 2 in the vids but was number 6 I believe in prior years )


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_H45XwxIGE

[Texasteel]

Is Williams going to be a penalty machine in the pros? While he can run with his guy sure, a lot of the video I'm watching, it seems like he's not afraid to truck his assignment whether the ball is there yet or not.

Right at this moment, I am not. True, Williams is a physical player, in fact both of the CBs I have listed are, but I don't see him as a player that has to depend on this. He has pretty good speed, good hands and breaks to the ball well. I don't think he will been a penalty magnet that I have read some draft sites suggest. Then again, I have been wrong on CBs before. I am one of the guys that liked the Brown pick a few years ago.

[Dwinsgames]

Scott Wright ‏@DraftCountdown (https://twitter.com/DraftCountdown) 2m2 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/DraftCountdown/status/530416442928152576) Washington has dismissed CB Marcus Peters from the team.

[Texasteel]

Scott Wright ‏@DraftCountdown (https://twitter.com/DraftCountdown) 2m2 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/DraftCountdown/status/530416442928152576) Washington has dismissed CB Marcus Peters from the team.

Kinda been waiting for that. And so starts the slid, we will have to wait to see how far, I hope he likes living in Cincy. That could foul up all my plans.

[Dwinsgames]

Scott Wright ‏@DraftCountdown (https://twitter.com/DraftCountdown) 2m2 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/DraftCountdown/status/530416442928152576) Washington has dismissed CB Marcus Peters from the team.

this is never a good thing , it reminds me all to much of the Oregon CB Cliff Harris situation a few years back , damn fine CB who just couldnt keep his shit together off the field booted from team ( could have been a 1st round pick ) went undrafted and never did squat in the NFL and has been in trouble since exiting the league too ...

Hopefully someone sits down with Peters and explains the perils of not doing things the right way ....

not many are blessed with the talent to play this game at a high enough level for some of the ones that are to throw it away by being stupid ....


more on Cliff Harris for those who need a refresher course http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cliff_Harris_%28cornerback%29

[Aussie_steeler]

I smell a bit of hothead combined with a coach scapegoating.

Petersen is trying to put his stamp on this team and take back the reigns of control.

Peters is the best player in his secondary. They are not going to the play offs or winning anything of note. Petersen is in this for the long haul ( he hopes) and Peters was always going to leave early for the 2015 draft. It is win - win for Petersen.

The way I look at this is a bit like the Willie Parker story. Recruited to a program and you fall out of favour due to a change in coaching staff. Peters is lucky that he has plenty of game film out there for him to be better evaluated.

My Question is why would Petersen say " he is going to give Marcus Peters a positive recommendation"?

Petersen is making a statement and Marcus Peters is his scapegoat. Peters has no respect for the current coaching staff ( who had no hand in recruiting him) and with four games left has no desire to make it work. Immature but scarily an expected scenario for todays younger generation. He is still NFL quality.

[Texasteel]

I have check a couple of draft sites to see if Peters is starting to slide a little, the answer is no, not yet anyway. Normally when a player is kicked of a team the sites are the first to jump on it. This could mean that there is much more to the story, and Aussie is right. Peters is immature and looks to have a mouth on him, but I know of a few NFL CBs that have the same trait. If this stays as it is my plan to take a CB in the first round could stay in tact. My suggestion to any team thinking Peters is to interview, interview, interview. Talk to Peters, his coach, and as many of his teammates as you can.


Like Aussie, I am a little confused about Petterson planning to give Peters a positive recommendation. What reason will he give for the dismissal . Isn't that like saying," I just wanted Peters off my team for no reason, and decided to be a complete ass about it.

[Texasteel]

I've been reading some, trying to figure out what happened in Washington. Some writers say that coach Petterson did every thing he could to get through to Peters, but Peters just would not cooperate. I did read a twitter that stated that Peters is gone mostly because Petterson did not like the kid, and Peters was going to leave next year anyway. I think this soap opera may only play out in the interview room. Peters is going to be drafted, maybe in the final picks of the first round. The team that picks him have better get the answers they want. Peters still has the talent to go in the first dozen picks in the draft, but will he ever have the temperament to contribute the way he should, as a player, and as a teamate. Personally, I still like Williams, but don't know if he will be available to us.

[Aussie_steeler]

If you check out Peters twitter feed he comes across as almost uneducated. He appears a wannabee gangsta

The interviews will be critical in the evaluation of Peters.

I think he is Tyrann Mathieu 2.0. An NFL player who will have a few speedbumps along the way for a NFL GM and coach

[Dwinsgames]

If you check out Peters twitter feed he comes across as almost uneducated. He appears a wannabee gangsta

The interviews will be critical in the evaluation of Peters.

I think he is Tyrann Mathieu 2.0. An NFL player who will have a few speedbumps along the way for a NFL GM and coach

see Cliff Harris a talented 10 cent head

[Texasteel]

see Cliff Harris a talented 10 cent head

From what I have been reading you will be overpaying at 10 cents.

[st33lersguy]

I haven't had a close look at the prospects yet, here is a generic mock for the 1st 5 rounds
1. Injury prone LB
2. Raw OT hand-picked by Munchak that was sub-spectacular in college but gets drafted because Munchak thinks he can coach him up
3. Pass catcher, probably TE this time, because Ben will ask for one and this is usually the round the Steelers draft one
4. Useless scat back hand picked by Haley (who retains his job because the Rooney's don't like to fire people and they will use the Colts and Ravens game as a reason to keep him)
5. CB that the team plans on cutting before the season because you apparently don't need good CBs, all you need is a pass rush (which the Steelers don't have).

[SteelerFanInStl]

I haven't had a close look at the prospects yet, here is a generic mock for the 1st 5 rounds
1. Injury prone LB
2. Raw OT hand-picked by Munchak that was sub-spectacular in college but gets drafted because Munchak thinks he can coach him up
3. Pass catcher, probably TE this time, because Ben will ask for one and this is usually the round the Steelers draft one
4. Useless scat back hand picked by Haley (who retains his job because the Rooney's don't like to fire people and they will use the Colts and Ravens game as a reason to keep him)
5. CB that the team plans on cutting before the season because you apparently don't need good CBs, all you need is a pass rush (which the Steelers don't have).

Nailed it! :lol:

[Steeltreal]

With Blounts release Duke Johnson and Ameer Abdullah should get a look in the 3rd

[tube517]

I haven't had a close look at the prospects yet, here is a generic mock for the 1st 5 rounds
1. Injury prone LB
2. Raw OT hand-picked by Munchak that was sub-spectacular in college but gets drafted because Munchak thinks he can coach him up
3. Pass catcher, probably TE this time, because Ben will ask for one and this is usually the round the Steelers draft one
4. Useless scat back hand picked by Haley (who retains his job because the Rooney's don't like to fire people and they will use the Colts and Ravens game as a reason to keep him)
5. CB that the team plans on cutting before the season because you apparently don't need good CBs, all you need is a pass rush (which the Steelers don't have).

6. Useless DE since they won't let Kissel retire until age 75
7. Useless TE because Matt Spaeth will get a contract extension until 2040.

Some add ons :chuckle:

Sent from my GT-N7105 using Tapatalk

[Texasteel]

We need a better defensive backfield. We may be playing ourselves out or a first round CB but there are a couple of second rounders that could be interesting, and several third rounders that I like very much. I am not that excited about our safeties as well, I have a couple in mind, want to see how they finish out the year. I'm not getting fooled by the on and off play by the O-line. There are going to be several interesting OTs in this draft, a LT caliber OT would let us move someone inside and strengthen both positions. Looks like we may need to look at RB. I would like one that is not afraid to take on a tackler, and is know for moving the pile. I'm not as unhappy with TE as some but think we could use one that can play in this draft. May be worth taking a gamble on one dropping because of an injury.

[Aussie_steeler]

Agree totally Tex. The defensive backfield is an uninspiring mess.

I can see Troy retiring at the end of the season (especially if they make a playoff run).
I am worried about Shamarko's capacity to stay healthy and Will " rent for another year" Allen is just a body.
Mike Mitchell has not made a play on any balls thrown in the air and misses too many tackles. With his mentality and skill set he may be better at SS until he gets cut (end of 2015). I am keen to see if Robert Golden would indeed be an upgrade.
Will Gay is best in the slot. Cortez Allen IMO is a decent corner if he has a better FS supporting him. (coincidence that his play has declined this year with a new FS)
McCain, Blake & Webb are uninspiring

Of those 11 names mentioned -- would any realistically be snapped up by another team if made available for trade? I would be surprised.

This draft has to address the defensive backfield. It also can help the defensive backfield by beefing up the pash rush ( I am not paying Worilds $9M plus for no productivity)


Round 1: Lorenzo Mauldin OLB Louisville ( A young James Harrison)
Round 2: Ben Koyack TE Notre Dame ( Ben must get a Miller 2.0 soon before he is left with no safety outlet)
Round 3: Eric Rowe CB Utah ( Steelers wont go CB early. Has played FS as well)
Round 4: Tyrus Thompson OT / OG Oklahoma ( I would like to see Ramon Foster go before Beachum. Thompson could play both)
Round 4 Comp: Steven Nelson CB Oregon State (developmental CB)
Round 5: Kyshoen Jarrett SS V Tech ( backup / St guy)
Round 6: Phillip Dorsett WR Miami ( Antonio Brown like. Small fast)
Round 7: Michael Dyer RB Louisville ( once high profile back who is coming back from adversity. Risk / reward pick)

[Dwinsgames]

Agree totally Tex. The defensive backfield is an uninspiring mess.

I can see Troy retiring at the end of the season (especially if they make a playoff run).
I am worried about Shamarko's capacity to stay healthy and Will " rent for another year" Allen is just a body.
Mike Mitchell has not made a play on any balls thrown in the air and misses too many tackles. With his mentality and skill set he may be better at SS until he gets cut (end of 2015). I am keen to see if Robert Golden would indeed be an upgrade.
Will Gay is best in the slot. Cortez Allen IMO is a decent corner if he has a better FS supporting him. (coincidence that his play has declined this year with a new FS)
McCain, Blake & Webb are uninspiring

Of those 11 names mentioned -- would any realistically be snapped up by another team if made available for trade? I would be surprised.

This draft has to address the defensive backfield. It also can help the defensive backfield by beefing up the pash rush ( I am not paying Worilds $9M plus for no productivity)


Round 1: Lorenzo Mauldin OLB Louisville ( A young James Harrison)
Round 2: Ben Koyack TE Notre Dame ( Ben must get a Miller 2.0 soon before he is left with no safety outlet)
Round 3: Eric Rowe CB Utah ( Steelers wont go CB early. Has played FS as well)
Round 4: Tyrus Thompson OT / OG Oklahoma ( I would like to see Ramon Foster go before Beachum. Thompson could play both)
Round 4 Comp: Steven Nelson CB Oregon State (developmental CB)
Round 5: Kyshoen Jarrett SS V Tech ( backup / St guy)
Round 6: Phillip Dorsett WR Miami ( Antonio Brown like. Small fast)
Round 7: Michael Dyer RB Louisville ( once high profile back who is coming back from adversity. Risk / reward pick)

I like Rowe as well , in fact mentioned him to Tex in Direct msg a couple days ago ...

kind of holding back this year , have had a ton of time but concentration level has been amiss from pain , meds, hospitalization x2 , not to mention financial concerns from not being able to finish my work season ( had some big jobs to do that was my winter living expenses and then busted this leg all to hell ) so have not been on top of things as I normally would be in the prospects department from the mental aspect ...I find myself watching and then all the sudden I realize I have no clue what I just witnessed , rewind rewatch etc

[Shoes]

No NT? McLendon can't stay healthy and I don't know what to think about Big Dan.

[Steeltreal]

No NT? McLendon can't stay healthy and I don't know what to think about Big Dan.
Maybe Woodley will be ready to play some NT by next Season

[st33lersguy]

6. Useless DE since they won't let Kissel retire until age 75
7. Useless TE because Matt Spaeth will get a contract extension until 2040.

Some add ons :chuckle:

Sent from my GT-N7105 using Tapatalk

Nailed it

[Texasteel]

I like Rowe as well , in fact mentioned him to Tex in Direct msg a couple days ago ...

kind of holding back this year , have had a ton of time but concentration level has been amiss from pain , meds, hospitalization x2 , not to mention financial concerns from not being able to finish my work season ( had some big jobs to do that was my winter living expenses and then busted this leg all to hell ) so have not been on top of things as I normally would be in the prospects department from the mental aspect ...I find myself watching and then all the sudden I realize I have no clue what I just witnessed , rewind rewatch etc

Actually, Rowe and Josh Shaw are a couple of kids I was thinking might play FS for us. Both look to be settling into the 3rd round, but then Nelson will go in the 3rd as well. What are the chances of getting two 3rd round picks?

[Dwinsgames]

What are the chances of getting two 3rd round picks?


I would say pretty good ... Sanders tearing it up in Denver should easily garner us a 3rd round comp ...

[Dwinsgames]

another guy I am pretty high on is Anthony Harris FS Virginia . good ball skills not afraid to make a tackle and can cover some ground top it off he has nice size at 6-1 -195

while on the Virginia Cavaliers topic , Canaan Severin wr made a one handed catch today for a TD that rivals any I have seen #nowords but it earned him a follow from me on twitter

[Texasteel]

Ibraheim Campbell of Northwestern is another SS I like. Has been a little overlooked early but people are starting to take notice. Doubt if he comes out this year, but one to watch in the future.

[Dwinsgames]

another guy I am pretty high on is Anthony Harris FS Virginia . good ball skills not afraid to make a tackle and can cover some ground top it off he has nice size at 6-1 -195

while on the Virginia Cavaliers topic , Canaan Severin wr made a one handed catch today for a TD that rivals any I have seen #nowords but it earned him a follow from me on twitter



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u_osbd58Boc

[Dwinsgames]

when you guys get a chance Check out CB Bobby McCain from Memphis could make a nice middle round pick

[tube517]

when you guys get a chance Check out CB Bobby McCain from Memphis could make a nice middle round pick that will eventually get taken from us off the practice squad by Arizona

Fixed! :chuckle:

[st33lersguy]

when you guys get a chance Check out CB Bobby McCain from Memphis could make a nice middle round pick

Cause we all know Colbert won't draft a CB til the middle rounds anyway

[Dwinsgames]

McCain

http://www.ncaa.com/news/football/article/2014-09-24/memphis-db-bobby-mccain-consistent-playermaker-tigers

[Steeltreal]

Georgia Tech has a pair of Safetes I like. Really hope they can pull the upset on Florida St in the ACC championship

[st33lersguy]

Really need to get a CB and OL

[Steeltreal]

Really need to get a CB and OL

Troy looking like he's ready to retire. I think this Defensive scheme needs an overhaul. The offense can score with the OL it has.

[Dwinsgames]

Troy looking like he's ready to retire. I think this Defensive scheme needs an overhaul. The offense can score with the OL it has.

Troys wife quoted as wanting him to retire ... so just might happen

[st33lersguy]

Troy looking like he's ready to retire. I think this Defensive scheme needs an overhaul. The offense can score with the OL it has.

Yeah, the defense is a problem, but Ben is still facing pressure, the OTs are sub-adequate, and Marcus Gilbert is useless

[86WARD]

You need to talk about the 2016 and 2017 drafts as well.

[Dwinsgames]

Yeah, the defense is a problem, but Ben is still facing pressure, the OTs are sub-adequate, and Marcus Gilbert is useless

and today adams wasnt much better

[Texasteel]

Only saw clips of todays game, but from I have seen so far, and what I think we will see in the draft, I think we might need to go OT, FS, and CB.

[Steeltreal]

http://www.spotrac.com/free-agents/nfl/cornerback/

u can add up the other 3 guys with 11yr experience still playing and it doesn't equal Ike Taylor's Cap Hit. Ouch

[SteelerFanInStl]

Troy looking like he's ready to retire. I think this Defensive scheme needs an overhaul. The offense can score with the OL it has.

He needs to. I'm tired of seeing him whiffing on tackles and trying to chase down receivers. He just can't make the plays any more.

Thanks for the many great years Troy but it's time to hang it up.

[Texasteel]

Watched the Florida St. BC game again last night. I wanted to watch CB Williams, and OT Erving again. Erving is playing a very solid center position for Florida St. right now and has shown in the past that he is a capable LT in the past. I think he is a kid that could end up at LT for us, plus be able to slide up and down the front line in an emergency. Right now we are sitting at the number 15 spot, and could go higher. In that case I think it would be a good possibility that we could land Williams.

1. PJ Williams CB. PJ has the speed and ability to cover most any WR one on one, and could give us the ints. we have been missing. He also has been showing his run support ability, with his speed, and physical play.

2. Cameron Erving OT. Erving can and does control his man at the point of attack in the running game, and has the ability to protect the blind side in the passing game. Needs a little coaching, but I think we have a good line coach to do that. He also has shown the ability to play about any line position if needed. Our coaching staff seems to really like that ability.

3.Eric Rowe CB. I'm looking for a FS here, and think Rowe could fit the bill. If not we can certainly us another good CB. He is a big kid with great length. May be a little over looked right now.


3 comp. Nick O'Leary TE. He would go much high if not for his injury. Needs work on his blocking, but there is no question about his hands, and his route running ability. Just so his ankle is sound.


4.Louis Trinca-Pisat DT. Davis gets all the talk at Iowa, but Louis has been doing the dirty work. Right now it looks like we need bodies on the defensive line.


Interested in a DE from Norfolk ST. by the name of LyndenTrail. Plays mostly at OLB in their 3-4. Started at Florida but left for Norfolk when Meyers left.

[Dwinsgames]

Watched the Florida St. BC game again last night. I wanted to watch CB Williams, and OT Erving again. Erving is playing a very solid center position for Florida St. right now and has shown in the past that he is a capable LT in the past. I think he is a kid that could end up at LT for us, plus be able to slide up and down the front line in an emergency. Right now we are sitting at the number 15 spot, and could go higher. In that case I think it would be a good possibility that we could land Williams.

1. PJ Williams CB. PJ has the speed and ability to cover most any WR one on one, and could give us the ints. we have been missing. He also has been showing his run support ability, with his speed, and physical play.

2. Cameron Erving OT. Erving can and does control his man at the point of attack in the running game, and has the ability to protect the blind side in the passing game. Needs a little coaching, but I think we have a good line coach to do that. He also has shown the ability to play about any line position if needed. Our coaching staff seems to really like that ability.

3.Eric Rowe CB. I'm looking for a FS here, and think Rowe could fit the bill. If not we can certainly us another good CB. He is a big kid with great length. May be a little over looked right now.




if that where the first 3 selections I would be very pleased

[Steeltreal]

I hope 3 of the first 4 picks are used on DB

[Texasteel]

if that where the first 3 selections I would be very pleased

I think those 3 picks will very doable. After that there are several ways we could go, a FS, TE, a pass rusher, perhaps even a OG to strengthen the line interior. We could help this team in talent and depth with this draft.

[Dwinsgames]

I think those 3 picks will very doable. After that there are several ways we could go, a FS, TE, a pass rusher, perhaps even a OG to strengthen the line interior. We could help this team in talent and depth with this draft.

would be nice , but as we know all to well you just never know how a draft will fall

[Texasteel]

would be nice , but as we know all to well you just never know how a draft will fall

That's true. You never know who a team is going to fall in love with. Plus, even though teams say that the combines are only a small part of the process it always seems to change a lot of minds.

[Shoes]

Is the draft going to be in May again?

[Godfather]

Should pick:

1) Shutdown corner
2) Nose tackle
3) Strong safety
4) Tight end
5-7) Depth

Will pick:

1) Brittle outside linebacker
2) 6'5" wide receiver with limited route running and situational awareness
3) 5'4", 120-pound running back
4) Scrambilng quarterback with below average accuracy
5) Offensive lineman
6) Cornerback
7) Random scrub

[86WARD]

By Random scrub do you mean another 7th Round TE?

[Steeltreal]

Looks like we're playoff bound, won't net us the top Corner or Safety, How about a disruptive DT like Michael Bennett or Danny Shelton.
I thought we would have taken Aaron Donald had he fallen to us LY.

[Dwinsgames]

Ronnie Stanley request the advisory board evaluation , if he declares would probably be the top or 2nd best T in the draft , pushing another good player down in our direction

[Dwinsgames]

As expected. In the mold of Kelvin Benjamin WR/TE Devin Funchess will forgo his SR season & enter the Draft

[Texasteel]

My opinion of what we need has not changed much if any over the last couple of month, just the fact that a later draft pick will make it more difficult to get the players I want.

1st. I still want a CB, but will not pick a CB just for the sake of picking one. I still think we may have a shot at PJ Williams. This is the kid I have wanted from the start and still do. He is fast, and physical, and also a fluid player. He has tremendous length with long arms and a good vertical, will be hard to through over even against a tall receiver. Plus, he give good run support. The kid can play.

If PJ is gone, I don't think there would be another CB, that would be available, that I would take at this point, and with Doss entering the draft we have a chance at a very good CB in the second. There are a couple of players I like if PJ is gone. FS Gerod Holliman would be interesting but I don't see the Steelers going FS in the first. I also like OLBs Nate Orchard, and Lorezo Mauldin are both very good at putting pressure on the QB. Michael Bennett would help our depleting DL, and can also put pressure on a QB.


2nd. If we don't get Williams I would look at Lorenzo Doss, now that he has declare for this years draft. I think he is underrated at this point. I also like Ronald Darby but think he may be gone. If we do get PJ, I like OT Jake Fisher here. I know this would not be a popular pick, but I don't have the faith in our line that some do. Fisher is a quick, athletic, and strong OT that in a year might free up one of our best OLinemen to play a position that I think he would be even better at. Till then let him get his feet wet on the right side which I think is a weak point of our line.


3rd. I like a FS here, Kurtis Drummonds. Durmmonds has great size with great length. Looks almost acrobatic on some of his plays. Tipping a pass or positioning himself for an int, or giving run support he is a well rounded player.

3rd comp, if we get one. I'm tore between 3 players. Eric Rowe CB. Tyler Kroft TE, and Tyeler Davison DT. I answer this will two other questions. Is the Steeler really likely to draft a CB in the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd, and then take another on with this pick? Even though I like Kroft very much, is he that much better than Jeff Hererman who we might be able to get with our 4th round pick. If we do not get a DT earlier, I would probably go with Davison to strengthen our DL.

4th. Jeff Hererman TE. Good hands, can block, to me has a lot of upside with good coaching.

5th. Tony Lippett WR. We're going to take a WR someplace, why not here. Saw Lippett play quit a bit. He has large, strong hands that let him snag the high throws, and take the ball away from his defender. Show good concentration in traffic. Worked hard on his route running and has shown a great deal of improvement. A little lean but plays bigger than he looks. Could be a good red zone, and 3rd down receiver.

6th. Lyndon Trail OLB. Left Florida when Meyer did, and chose to play at small school Norfolk ST. Quick of the line, with all the tools just waiting for a good coach to bring out. If he is invited to the combine will likely go a bit higher.

7th. Corey Grant RB. The coaches like speed? OK let see if they can develop this kid. 5'10", 200 lbs, mid 4.3s in the 40. If is the 7th round after all.

[Dwinsgames]

My opinion of what we need has not changed much if any over the last couple of month, just the fact that a later draft pick will make it more difficult to get the players I want.

1st. I still want a CB, but will not pick a CB just for the sake of picking one. I still think we may have a shot at PJ Williams. This is the kid I have wanted from the start and still do. He is fast, and physical, and also a fluid player. He has tremendous length with long arms and a good vertical, will be hard to through over even against a tall receiver. Plus, he give good run support. The kid can play.

If PJ is gone, I don't think there would be another CB, that would be available, that I would take at this point, and with Doss entering the draft we have a chance at a very good CB in the second. There are a couple of players I like if PJ is gone. FS Gerod Holliman would be interesting but I don't see the Steelers going FS in the first. I also like OLBs Nate Orchard, and Lorezo Mauldin are both very good at putting pressure on the QB. Michael Bennett would help our depleting DL, and can also put pressure on a QB.


2nd. If we don't get Williams I would look at Lorenzo Doss, now that he has declare for this years draft. I think he is underrated at this point. I also like Ronald Darby but think he may be gone. If we do get PJ, I like OT Jake Fisher here. I know this would not be a popular pick, but I don't have the faith in our line that some do. Fisher is a quick, athletic, and strong OT that in a year might free up one of our best OLinemen to play a position that I think he would be even better at. Till then let him get his feet wet on the right side which I think is a weak point of our line.


3rd. I like a FS here, Kurtis Drummonds. Durmmonds has great size with great length. Looks almost acrobatic on some of his plays. Tipping a pass or positioning himself for an int, or giving run support he is a well rounded player.

3rd comp, if we get one. I'm tore between 3 players. Eric Rowe CB. Tyler Kroft TE, and Tyeler Davison DT. I answer this will two other questions. Is the Steeler really likely to draft a CB in the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd, and then take another on with this pick? Even though I like Kroft very much, is he that much better than Jeff Hererman who we might be able to get with our 4th round pick. If we do not get a DT earlier, I would probably go with Davison to strengthen our DL.

4th. Jeff Hererman TE. Good hands, can block, to me has a lot of upside with good coaching.

5th. Tony Lippett WR. We're going to take a WR someplace, why not here. Saw Lippett play quit a bit. He has large, strong hands that let him snag the high throws, and take the ball away from his defender. Show good concentration in traffic. Worked hard on his route running and has shown a great deal of improvement. A little lean but plays bigger than he looks. Could be a good red zone, and 3rd down receiver.

6th. Lyndon Trail OLB. Left Florida when Meyer did, and chose to play at small school Norfolk ST. Quick of the line, with all the tools just waiting for a good coach to bring out. If he is invited to the combine will likely go a bit higher.

7th. Corey Grant RB. The coaches like speed? OK let see if they can develop this kid. 5'10", 200 lbs, mid 4.3s in the 40. If is the 7th round after all.

if I didnt know better I would swear you stole my notes on the first 3 rounds ....

I will post up my player grouping i would like to see a little later today or tomorrow ... some more names I would add to this and would like to trade down ( don't I always )

I think the difference in a late 1st round FS and a mid 3rd rd FS in this draft is very miniscule and 3 guys I would put in that grouping trading back from where we stand now at 22 to top 5 in round 2 gaining a high 3 would really open up our ability to nab another player or two we ordinarily wouldnt get ....

more to come .......

[Dwinsgames]

like we where saying above ...

I think the first three rounds these are my " Target guys " if we can trade back and gain an extra early 3rd round pick we could walk away with 4 of these guys ...... any 4 and I am a happy camper

Players to target

group 1

CBs
Trae Waynes
Ifo Ekpre-Olomu
Kevin Johnson
Pj Williams
Ronald Darby

FS

Gerod Holliman
Cody Prewitt
Kurtis Drummond

DE-OLB
Shane Ray - would have to get lucky to get him IMO and could not trade down
Lorenzo Mauldin
Nate Orchard
Hauoli Kikaha
Randy Gregory

OT
La'el Collins
Spencer Drango
Cameron Erving
Ereck Flowers
Ty Sambrailo

3rd round comp would permit an additional selection that I consider a high end luxury pick and I target a TE or C at that spot and from my grades the best possible scenario I see at these spots being there at that point would be

Hroniss Grasu C-G
Andy Gallik C-G
Tyler Kroft TE

4th round on I look to fill needs with BPA ...we lack team depth and I want guys who will make the roster here ....

RB
Jeremy Langford
David Johnson
Malcolm Brown
Malcolm Agnew

WR
Antwan Goodley
Tyler Lockett
Phillip Dorsett
Tony Lippet
Jamison Crowder

DT
Grady Jarrett
Louis Trinca-Pasat
James Castleman

CB
Josh Shaw
Erik Rowe
Doran Grant

probably forgetting a few guys and who knows how it will fall but this list should get one through 7 rounds and procure quality players and filling needs along the way

[Texasteel]

Does Drangos back surgery last year worry you any? Does Darby's involvement in the sexual abuse case give you any second thoughts?

[Dwinsgames]

Does Drangos back surgery last year worry you any? Does Darby's involvement in the sexual abuse case give you any second thoughts?

sure both concern me to some degree ...

But ... Drango is a first round talent if not for medical red flags IMO if you can get him in the 2nd I think its well worth the risk

Darby was cleared of any criminal involvement so for me its no worse than Bens ordeal ( x2 ) and no worse than FSU cornerback P.J. Williams reportedly fled the scene of a crash that totaled two vehicles, but received just two traffic tickets instead of hit-and-run charges..........

this is what we get to pick from in today's modern era a bunch of kids that do not know how to act because of Athletic immunity , child stars that are always protected from fault by parents , coaches and society because they play a game well ... most of these kids do not come from " heartland backgrounds" they are inner city kids that as bad as they where / are is some of the better kids from their social setting ...

doesnt make it right but it is what it is , we live in an imperfect world full of imperfect people and it is getting worse and worse every day ... you just hope you get kids that can be molded into young men you can be proud of , that comes with a strong organization standard and leadership ...

[Texasteel]

I agree completely.

[LLT]

1. CB P.J. Williams of Florida State 6’0 196
I think most of us know that Williams is going to be a riser on most draft boards. Should still be there at the end of first round.

2. OT Spencer Drango of Baylor 6’5 315
I know this is not a high priority on most fans draft list...but we could use a SERIOUS upgrade at both tackle positions. Just because our line is better than it was last year does NOT mean that it cant be upgraded.

3. FS Kurtis Drummond of Michigan State 6‘1 200
Great player with good field awareness...will have to add some meat to his bones to reach full potential. I also like Prewitt here if he is still on the board

3a. CB Steven Nelson of Oregon State 5’11 195
Yes...another cornerback. Nelson makes the most out of his talents and body type. Hard worker who seems to be very football smart.

4. TE Jeff Heuerman of Ohio State 6’5 255
Cant say anything here that hasn't been said before. Good blocker with good hands. Could be a starter is a few years.

5. DE Henry Anderson of Stanford 6’6 295
Steal in the 5th round. Strong and quick. Great depth player who might end up as a solid rotational guy.

6. WR Tre McBride of William & Mary 6’1 205
Very good speed. Underrated. Runs a 4.4 and lets be honest....I love the fact that he is from Tomlins alma mater.

7. OLB Zach Wagenmann of Montana 6’4 250
This is what the 7th round is for. Productive DE in college with a high motor. Move him to OLB and see if he can make the 53.

[Texasteel]

1. CB P.J. Williams of Florida State 6’0 196
I think most of us know that Williams is going to be a riser on most draft boards. Should still be there at the end of first round.

2. OT Spencer Drango of Baylor 6’5 315
I know this is not a high priority on most fans draft list...but we could use a SERIOUS upgrade at both tackle positions. Just because our line is better than it was last year does NOT mean that it cant be upgraded.

3. FS Kurtis Drummond of Michigan State 6‘1 200
Great player with good field awareness...will have to add some meat to his bones to reach full potential. I also like Prewitt here if he is still on the board

3a. CB Steven Nelson of Oregon State 5’11 195
Yes...another cornerback. Nelson makes the most out of his talents and body type. Hard worker who seems to be very football smart.

4. TE Jeff Heuerman of Ohio State 6’5 255
Cant say anything here that hasn't been said before. Good blocker with good hands. Could be a starter is a few years.

5. DE Henry Anderson of Stanford 6’6 295
Steal in the 5th round. Strong and quick. Great depth player who might end up as a solid rotational guy.

6. WR Tre McBride of William & Mary 6’1 205
Very good speed. Underrated. Runs a 4.4 and lets be honest....I love the fact that he is from Tomlins alma mater.

7. OLB Zach Wagenmann of Montana 6’4 250
This is what the 7th round is for. Productive DE in college with a high motor. Move him to OLB and see if he can make the 53.

Don't mind this one at all Perry, and it looks to be doable. Makes you wonder. How is our war room going to screw this thing up. Don't know much about Wagermann.

I really like this years CBs all the way down into the 5th round.

[st33lersguy]

1. CB P.J. Williams of Florida State 6’0 196
I think most of us know that Williams is going to be a riser on most draft boards. Should still be there at the end of first round.

2. OT Spencer Drango of Baylor 6’5 315
I know this is not a high priority on most fans draft list...but we could use a SERIOUS upgrade at both tackle positions. Just because our line is better than it was last year does NOT mean that it cant be upgraded.

3. FS Kurtis Drummond of Michigan State 6‘1 200
Great player with good field awareness...will have to add some meat to his bones to reach full potential. I also like Prewitt here if he is still on the board

3a. CB Steven Nelson of Oregon State 5’11 195
Yes...another cornerback. Nelson makes the most out of his talents and body type. Hard worker who seems to be very football smart.

4. TE Jeff Heuerman of Ohio State 6’5 255
Cant say anything here that hasn't been said before. Good blocker with good hands. Could be a starter is a few years.

5. DE Henry Anderson of Stanford 6’6 295
Steal in the 5th round. Strong and quick. Great depth player who might end up as a solid rotational guy.

6. WR Tre McBride of William & Mary 6’1 205
Very good speed. Underrated. Runs a 4.4 and lets be honest....I love the fact that he is from Tomlins alma mater.

7. OLB Zach Wagenmann of Montana 6’4 250
This is what the 7th round is for. Productive DE in college with a high motor. Move him to OLB and see if he can make the 53.

Is Spencer Drangos a polished technically sound tackle or is he one of those raw players who has shown little ability in college that only gets pushed up due to potential? I have no problem drafting a polished technician whose only concern is adjusting to the pro game, I want no part of some bug strong guy who will need 2 years of coaching just to learn how to pass block properly, that does this team no good

[Dwinsgames]

Is Spencer Drangos a polished technically sound tackle or is he one of those raw players who has shown little ability in college that only gets pushed up due to potential? I have no problem drafting a polished technician whose only concern is adjusting to the pro game, I want no part of some bug strong guy who will need 2 years of coaching just to learn how to pass block properly, that does this team no good

he is a big strong kid ...

BUT .........

has good feet , gets to second level with his run blocking , gets his hands on his man with good pop in both pass pro and run game , controls his man moves him where he wants him ....

not a work in progress this kid would enter camp looking to take not only a roster spot but somebody's job in the starting lineup and with this group we have he would do it easily ....

can play right or left tackle in a ZBS and has the feet to pull it off ( nimble footed for big man ) and pretty athletic ...

IMO 2 years with Munch and he would be a pro bowl quality Tackle ...that is my take looking forward to what others have to say ...

here is some early tape of him ...

note the feet , at 50 seconds in he PULLS from RT to LG area for a run play ....


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DboHv3ebtw

[st33lersguy]

he is a big strong kid ...

BUT .........

has good feet , gets to second level with his run blocking , gets his hands on his man with good pop in both pass pro and run game , controls his man moves him where he wants him ....

not a work in progress this kid would enter camp looking to take not only a roster spot but somebody's job in the starting lineup and with this group we have he would do it easily ....

can play right or left tackle in a ZBS and has the feet to pull it off ( nimble footed for big man ) and pretty athletic ...

IMO 2 years with Munch and he would be a pro bowl quality Tackle ...that is my take looking forward to what others have to say ...

here is some early tape of him ...

note the feet , at 50 seconds in he PULLS from RT to LG area for a run play ....


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DboHv3ebtw

I probably should have clarified better, I am fine with a big strong guy who is also technically sound, it is just the linemen who are just big and strong and do not have a firm grasp on technique that I have an aversion to.
As to the player, I liked what I saw on the video, I think he worth considering if the value is right

[LLT]

Is Spencer Drangos a polished technically sound tackle or is he one of those raw players who has shown little ability in college that only gets pushed up due to potential? I have no problem drafting a polished technician whose only concern is adjusting to the pro game, I want no part of some bug strong guy who will need 2 years of coaching just to learn how to pass block properly, that does this team no good

Dwins pretty much nailed it. He is a strong guy with light feet and an good anchor. Exceptional kick slide and strong initial punch. I know in one game the announcer was saying that he was letting a quick smaller DE get around him and I thought it was absolutely stupid for him to say that. Drango was keeping himself between the rusher and the QB and let the DE run himself out of the play. Just another talking head who opens his mouth and lets things fall out without critical analysis.

[Texasteel]

His ability to get his hand inside on the defender will serve him well in the pro. Watch his man closely, they often will be stopped in their tracks or get knock back. I haven't talked about him much but has been one of my targets early in the year. IMO you could play Gilbert and Adams side by side and not be as affective. May start on the right side but would quickly be moved to the left. No, he is not a project. IMO.

[Texasteel]

One other thing. He has a high football IQ and will learn very quickly.

[Aussie_steeler]

You stole my late round pimp for my next draft Perry.

I have been keeping the William & Mary WR up my sleeve for a while.

Also a big fan of Nelson at CB.

Good to see you can still read my mind across all that distance

Hope to have a mock up soon and better feedback to follow soon

[Dwinsgames]

one of my favorite CBs in this next draft stock just fell , Ifo Ekpre-Olomu feared to have torn acl in practice


http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000445208/article/report-oregon-cb-ifo-ekpreolomu-suffers-injury-in-practice

[Texasteel]

Could be a opportunity for some team. Draft him late and see how well he can recover. Would be a 2 year project.

[Dwinsgames]

Could be a opportunity for some team. Draft him late and see how well he can recover. Would be a 2 year project.

I wouldnt let him get past the 3rd round if I where a GM . just to good of prospect

[Dwinsgames]

Stanford CB Alex Carter expected to declare ( under rated ) Big Physical Corner who can sit in a Receivers hip pocket and wait to make a play on the ball , not the best of hands for making a pick but normally in very good pos ... 6 ft 200 pound , runs well , can play bump n run man or zone

[Texasteel]

I'm a little surprised Carter is coming out. I thought he would stay in school one more year, and to be honest, I think he should. How ever, it does give us one more option. A class I liked in the first place got a little stronger. I see him in the bunch that will likely go in the mid 3rd or so maybe. Where would you put him Dwins?

[Dwinsgames]

I'm a little surprised Carter is coming out. I thought he would stay in school one more year, and to be honest, I think he should. How ever, it does give us one more option. A class I liked in the first place got a little stronger. I see him in the bunch that will likely go in the mid 3rd or so maybe. Where would you put him Dwins?

I think your about right early to mid 3rd depends on how the top falls ...

I have him just ahead of Rowe and Shaw but behind Doss , Johnson

[Dwinsgames]

I think your about right early to mid 3rd depends on how the top falls ...

I have him just ahead of Rowe and Shaw but behind Doss , Johnson


watching some more tape ... I think perhaps Carter is above Doss - Johnson ... he does still have work to do before becoming a finished product ( but don't they all ? ) his size /athletic ability are top notch he could test himself into the late 1st round

[thesteelerdealer]

The players that are getting talked up a lot at the CB position are not all that to me. The Player that excites me, and who is being considered more of a 3rd round prospect is Ohio State's " Doran Grant " At 5ft, 11, 195Lbs, he doesn't have the elite size and speed the NFL Drools over. But he does have excellent technique, and is a play-maker out there. Well tonight he will get his chance to Shine going up against not only the Favorite to win it all In Alabama, but the BEST WR in this draft class in Amari Cooper. I like Grant, and he is one of my own highly regarded CB's I like in this draft. Right now, who knows where the Draft pundits will rank Grant...( 3rd to 4th rounder, or maybe he climbs as high as a Late 1st or early 2nd rounder )......all I know is I am looking forward to tonight's game.

[Dwinsgames]

Cam Erving making money today ..... 1st round ( where I had him last year had he came out Remember Tex ? )

[SteelerFanInStl]

I watched the Mizzou bowl game yesterday vs Minnesota and was very impressed with the MN TE Maxx Williams. Did anyone else see the play where he hurdled two defenders and took the ball in for a TD?

http://screengrabber.deadspin.com/maxx-williams-dominates-missouri-defense-double-hurdle-1676982310

[Texasteel]

As I see it, and it hasn't changed much, we need to find a CB, a Safety, a pass rush, and OL help.

[Drazo85]

Pass rush please. And a few players in the secondary wouldnt hurt either.

[Steeltreal]

Shane Ray , Michael Bennett. these DTs on the can't stay on the field for a single drive. Is it conditioning or scheme.

[SteelerFanInStl]

Shane Ray , Michael Bennett. these DTs on the can't stay on the field for a single drive. Is it conditioning or scheme.

Ray is a first round pick, possibly as high as top 10. He's most likely gone before we draft. I watched almost every Mizzou game this year and Ray played great. Of course he'll have to convert to LBer in the NFL.

I also don't think that we should take a LBer in the first though even though we certainly need an OLBer that can rush the QB.

[Dwinsgames]

As I see it, and it hasn't changed much, we need to find a CB, a Safety, a pass rush, and OL help.

Bingo

[Steeltreal]

As I see it, and it hasn't changed much, we need to find a CB, a Safety, a pass rush, and OL help.

But the Steelers probably put a priority on pass rushearly in the draft vs Corner, just their M.O.

[Texasteel]

But the Steelers probably put a priority on pass rushearly in the draft vs Corner, just their M.O.

Depending on who is there, I'm not sure they wouldn't be right to do so. There are two DE that would play OLB for us that IMO would improve the pass rush next year. The fact that, again IMO, there will be a CB in the second or third that would help our defensive back field tremendously plays into my thoughts. To be honest, I'm not sure I wouldn't like that first pick to come in the early second round. Again, this will all depend on who is still on the board when they call our name.

[Dwinsgames]

we are drafting in a bad spot IMO I do not expect ANY CBs or DE/OLB tweeners worthy of a 1st round pick to be on the board when we pick ...

by the time the second round comes I still do not see a CB with the proper grade being available we either just missed them 5-8 picks ahead of us and the next graded out guys shouldnt go for another 10 picks or more ...

so we are either reaching / over spending to fill a need or waiting and going without anyone worthy of starting as a rookie ....

I say it every year ( and often times because the talent we need isnt going to be there at our pick point without over spending ) is trading down may yet again be the best option but like prior years an option we do not explore to seriously as a franchise

[Texasteel]

Like you Dwins, I do not want to draft a CB just to draft a CB in the 1st. I like the DE Orchard very much, but in the 1st? I don't know. This is going to kill some people, or they will want to kill me, but theres a good chance the position most worthy a 1st round pick at that point is going to be an O-lineman. To me trading down, if the guy we want is not there make sense. Get a 2nd, and a 3rd, hopefully get a 3rd round comp, and start plugging hole that we have all been talking about. Of course things can change over the next few month, including my mind.

[steelerdude15]

I see the Steelers either drafting an outside linebacker or a corner in the first round. If they did draft a corner in the first round, of course this is a big if; I think Trae Waynes of Michigan State could be a good fit for this team. He's 6'1 and is around 182 pounds. He seems to cover receivers pretty well, he has good vision, he is physical, and can also catch. Just food for thought.

[Texasteel]

I see the Steelers either drafting an outside linebacker or a corner in the first round. If they did draft a corner in the first round, of course this is a big if; I think Trae Waynes of Michigan State could be a good fit for this team. He's 6'1 and is around 182 pounds. He seems to cover receivers pretty well, he has good vision, he is physical, and can also catch. Just food for thought.

Personally, if Waynes were there when we pick I would be knocking tables over getting the card up there. How ever I will be shocked if he gets any where close to us.

[steelerdude15]

Personally, if Waynes were there when we pick I would be knocking tables over getting the card up there. How ever I will be shocked if he gets any where close to us.

I just imagined some guy running and knocking tables over at the draft with a determined look on his face. :chuckle:

I would surprised if he made it that far too. He's seems to be a highly regarded corner in this years draft.

[Dwinsgames]

I just imagined some guy running and knocking tables over at the draft with a determined look on his face. :chuckle:

I would surprised if he made it that far too. He's seems to be a highly regarded corner in this years draft.


I had that same vision lmao ...

Yes he will be the first CB taken IMO and we all know more than 1 will be drafted in this new breed NFL before we select that being said ( and the premium put on the position ) we would be forced to way over draft or end up with a head case ..I prefer to do neither

[Texasteel]

Maybe that's the real reason we signed Tate.

[MULLDOG24]

I like a lot of what guys are saying on here about pass rush and coverage but what I would like to see is to draft a NT in the 1st or 2nd rd of the draft like Danny Shelton from washington. I think this guy can give us a good push in the middle and eat up some O-linemen for our LB's

[Steeltreal]

I like a lot of what guys are saying on here about pass rush and coverage but what I would like to see is to draft a NT in the 1st or 2nd rd of the draft like Danny Shelton from washington. I think this guy can give us a good push in the middle and eat up some O-linemen for our LB's
I think we can move forward with McClendon and McCullers it's just Dicks scheme that pulls them off the field, if your going to draft a DT/rotational guy it shouldn't be a 1st rounder

[Dwinsgames]

I like a lot of what guys are saying on here about pass rush and coverage but what I would like to see is to draft a NT in the 1st or 2nd rd of the draft like Danny Shelton from washington. I think this guy can give us a good push in the middle and eat up some O-linemen for our LB's

if we didnt have McCullers on the roster I would be right there with you pounding my fist , however I believe in big Dan and think with a full off season of work ( if he puts in the work but the team should know by draft time if he has not been in the complex ) and another training camp ( this one actually understanding what he is supposed to do ) we will be pretty good there .. I sure hope so anyways

you have to admit he is a mountain to move and he can get penetration when given a chance to line up ...

[Count Steeler]

if we didnt have McCullers on the roster I would be right there with you pounding my fist , however I believe in big Dan and think with a full off season of work ( if he puts in the work but the team should know by draft time if he has not been in the complex ) and another training camp ( this one actually understanding what he is supposed to do ) we will be pretty good there .. I sure hope so anyways

you have to admit he is a mountain to move and he can get penetration when given a chance to line up ...

I like what I have seen so far from McCullers. He even shed some blocks and made some tackles last night. He has also destroyed some centers in some of the games he has played. Hit the weights and the tape and keep learning. He has a future in the black and gold.

[Texasteel]

I like a lot of what guys are saying on here about pass rush and coverage but what I would like to see is to draft a NT in the 1st or 2nd rd of the draft like Danny Shelton from washington. I think this guy can give us a good push in the middle and eat up some O-linemen for our LB's

If the steelers decide to go in that direction Shelton just might be there. Then again, that what we said about Poe till the combines.

[Dwinsgames]

potential help from the middle rounds of the draft ... don't over look this kid ( I think Tex also has his eye on him but maybe it was LLT )


http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24831853/nfl-draft-uclas-owamagbe-odighizuwa-a-name-to-know-now

[Texasteel]

potential help from the middle rounds of the draft ... don't over look this kid ( I think Tex also has his eye on him but maybe it was LLT )


http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24831853/nfl-draft-uclas-owamagbe-odighizuwa-a-name-to-know-now

I believe we both are. LLT and I have developed a habit of not talking a lot about kids we really like.

[MULLDOG24]

Absolutely agree with you on that! If he puts up great numbers at the combine with what he has put on tape some team will pull the trigger on him early...oh well story of our draft LOL1

[st33lersguy]

Steelers need to draft a defensive back with the 22nd pick, I don't care if it is corner or safety

[Texasteel]

Steelers need to draft a defensive back with the 22nd pick, I don't care if it is corner or safety

Be careful painting yourself in a corner with one position. There could conceivably not be a DB that is worth a first round pick, at that point. In that case I would hope we could find a trade partner. Besides, we don't really know who the new DC is going to be, he could effect our first pick on the draft.

[steelerdude15]

Be careful painting yourself in a corner with one position. There could conceivably not be a DB that is worth a first round pick, at that point. In that case I would hope we could find a trade partner. Besides, we don't really know who the new DC is going to be, he could effect our first pick on the draft.

Yeah, I definitely feel we're in a pretty tight position with the spot we have in the draft. Dick resigning might have an affect on that too.

[st33lersguy]

I would like to see the Steelers do what they did in '03 drafting a db in the first (corner or safety, and I am not saying trade up like they did that year, if anything trade down and get more picks if the value isn't there) and then whatever db position they don't draft in round 1, draft in rounds 3 or 4, order doesn't matter. I think it is the correct thing to do given that the db situations then and now are similar

[Dwinsgames]

I would like to see the Steelers do what they did in '03 drafting a db in the first (corner or safety, and I am not saying trade up like they did that year, if anything trade down and get more picks if the value isn't there) and then whatever db position they don't draft in round 1, draft in rounds 3 or 4, order doesn't matter. I think it is the correct thing to do given that the db situations then and now are similar

and in between those picks take a DE or OLB dependent upon what scheme is going to be the primary base formation under Butler ...

I suspect it will be 3-4 so OLB/DE tweener type that can rush the passer

[Steelman]

and in between those picks take a DE or OLB dependent upon what scheme is going to be the primary base formation under Butler ...

I suspect it will be 3-4 so OLB/DE tweener type that can rush the passer

Alvin Dupreeeeeeeeeeee

[Dwinsgames]

Alvin Dupreeeeeeeeeeee

would be a good choice provided he is still lingering , but I suspect he will be gone by our pick in round 2 but ya just never know until it happens

[Steelman]

would be a good choice provided he is still lingering , but I suspect he will be gone by our pick in round 2 but ya just never know until it happens

Do you not think he's worth it at 22?

Seems like there are good corners in the 2-3 rounds which would allow us to not have to reach for one in the first, provided there are any good pass rushers left.

[Dwinsgames]

Do you not think he's worth it at 22?

Seems like there are good corners in the 2-3 rounds which would allow us to not have to reach for one in the first, provided there are any good pass rushers left.

may be a bit high at 22 ...

22 is just a bad bad spot in this draft IMO pretty large disparity in talent at most positions from 15-18 onward and if we cant get one of those top tier guys from that top area I am not so sure we should be selecting at that point cause the value is not truly there ... however that being said who is going to be dumb enough to want to come up ( unless its Denver wanting to come up and take a QB who may be there still in a guy like Conner Cook ?? ) ...

I like Dupree but is he a full round in the draft better than say Hauoli Kikaha (http://www.google.com/search?q=Hauoli+Kikaha+Draft+Profile&btnI&as_sitesearch=nfl.com) or Lorenzo Mauldin (http://www.google.com/search?q=Lorenzo+Mauldin+Draft+Profile&btnI&as_sitesearch=nfl.com) or Markus Golden (http://www.google.com/search?q=Markus+Golden+Draft+Profile&btnI&as_sitesearch=nfl.com) ... for me the answer is no

[Texasteel]

I believe I heard that Cook already said he is going to stay in school.

[Dwinsgames]

I believe I heard that Cook already said he is going to stay in school.

you may be right , been busy with prospect interviews ( getting them lined up and questions /communications as of late ) missed a bunch of news I am sure

[LLT]

Being that we will probably free up about 8 mil in cap space if Troy retires.....In a perfect world that could allow us to sign one or two premium free agents. For instance...TE Jordan Cameron, OLB Sam Acho , or perhaps CB Chris Culliver . All who both made about 1.5 mil last year.

I think we could pick up at least two FA's this offseason. That would clear up a rather murky draft scenario.

[Aussie_steeler]

Fix the Defence. Push the Offence over the edge.

Round 1. Bud Dupree DE Kentucky ( Elephant pass rusher that will give Butler some scheme diversity)
Round 2: Jalen Collins CB LSU (word is from Dave-Te Thomas is that the steelers really like him)
Round 3: Ben Koyack TE Notre Dame (Give him a year to learn from Heath and he will be Heath 2.0)
Round 4: Jeremy Langford RB Michigan State (runs with the same patience as Bell. Not the pass catching threat like Bell however)
Round 4 Comp Eric Rowe CB / FS Utah ( if troy retires I look at Will Allen, Shamarko and Mike Mitchell as SS options. Roster will need a FS)
Round 5: Steven Nelson CB Oregon State (I think he falls through the cracks draft day. IMO a late 3rd round talent)
Round 6: James Vaughters OLB Stanford ( a pass rusher who can pass rush and also drop back into coverage. Dupree will be more rush and run plug)
Round 7: Blake Bell TE Oklahoma (emerging on the radar at the shrine game week. smooth pass catcher. )

UDFA
Tre McBride WR / KR Tomlin & Mary ( has some height and is a possession type guy. Let Tomlin get a W&M player to join BM Webb)
Mitch Morse OT/OG Mizzou ( plays LT but will be more an OG)
Cameron Botticelli DT Minnesota ( high motor guy who played beside Hagemann at Minnesota.

[st33lersguy]

Fix the Defence. Push the Offence over the edge.

Round 1. Bud Dupree DE Kentucky ( Elephant pass rusher that will give Butler some scheme diversity)
Round 2: Jalen Collins CB LSU (word is from Dave-Te Thomas is that the steelers really like him)
Round 3: Ben Koyack TE Notre Dame (Give him a year to learn from Heath and he will be Heath 2.0)
Round 4: Jeremy Langford RB Michigan State (runs with the same patience as Bell. Not the pass catching threat like Bell however)
Round 4 Comp Eric Rowe CB / FS Utah ( if troy retires I look at Will Allen, Shamarko and Mike Mitchell as SS options. Roster will need a FS)
Round 5: Steven Nelson CB Oregon State (I think he falls through the cracks draft day. IMO a late 3rd round talent)
Round 6: James Vaughters OLB Stanford ( a pass rusher who can pass rush and also drop back into coverage. Dupree will be more rush and run plug)
Round 7: Blake Bell TE Oklahoma (emerging on the radar at the shrine game week. smooth pass catcher. )

UDFA
Tre McBride WR / KR Tomlin & Mary ( has some height and is a possession type guy. Let Tomlin get a W&M player to join BM Webb)
Mitch Morse OT/OG Mizzou ( plays LT but will be more an OG)
Cameron Botticelli DT Minnesota ( high motor guy who played beside Hagemann at Minnesota.

Dupree probably will be the pick if available given the new scheme transition and Colbert's love of neglecting the CB position

[Texasteel]

Dupree probably will be the pick if available given the new scheme transition and Colbert's love of neglecting the CB position

If Dupree is available is going to be a big question here, but if he is I could see us taking him. That, how ever, does not mean the DB position is going to be ignored. There are several good CB, and safeties that will go in the 2nd and 3rd round. A couple that may be plug in a play players for us. There is still a lot of preparation to get ready for the draft. The most visible to us is the FA process. Signing a player can turn a draft need into a draft luxury.

[Dwinsgames]

I like Dupree but must be in the minority here on him ...

for me he lacks ideal strength and struggles to disengage once a Lineman gets his hands on him ( Jarvis Jones has the exact same problem ) , he does not take full advantage of his height and put him arms up to dispute the view of the QB ...

there are guys I like as much , maybe even more that may be had in the second round

[Texasteel]

I like Dupree but must be in the minority here on him ...

for me he lacks ideal strength and struggles to disengage once a Lineman gets his hands on him ( Jarvis Jones has the exact same problem ) , he does not take full advantage of his height and put him arms up to dispute the view of the QB ...

there are guys I like as much , maybe even more that may be had in the second round

Don't know if you are in the minority as much as what some of us think may happen. If it is a choice of Dupree or trading down, I would still rather trade down.

[st33lersguy]

If Dupree is available is going to be a big question here, but if he is I could see us taking him. That, how ever, does not mean the DB position is going to be ignored. There are several good CB, and safeties that will go in the 2nd and 3rd round. A couple that may be plug in a play players for us. There is still a lot of preparation to get ready for the draft. The most visible to us is the FA process. Signing a player can turn a draft need into a draft luxury.

I could see the team going safety as early as the 3rd if they don't sign one, but corner will get ignored until round 5 again

[Dwinsgames]

I could see the team going safety as early as the 3rd if they don't sign one, but corner will get ignored until round 5 again

if it is I will definitely break something

[Texasteel]

I could see the team going safety as early as the 3rd if they don't sign one, but corner will get ignored until round 5 again

Your still talking out of last years disappointment. I could be wrong, but I expect a CB no later than the 3rd round.

[Aussie_steeler]

I like Dupree but must be in the minority here on him ...

for me he lacks ideal strength and struggles to disengage once a Lineman gets his hands on him ( Jarvis Jones has the exact same problem ) , he does not take full advantage of his height and put him arms up to dispute the view of the QB ...

there are guys I like as much , maybe even more that may be had in the second round

I watched a lot of film on Dupree and the more I watch the more natural football instincts to read a play I see in him than other DE / OLB's

He diagnoses plays better than most. He doesn't put his head down and charge blindly. This makes him an asset in the run game as he is able to move towards the runner and not over run it. He remains in the play more than most. I see this a lot from guys like Orchard, Fowler, Mauldin, Kikaha. They are all good pass rushers ( equal to Dupree) but I think his asset is to contain the run game.

I see his awareness allowing him to slid past the blockers and get to the blocker. Truthfully I haven't seen him get locked up like you say.

He has played standing up, with his hand down and on both sides.

I am wanting a guy who can play in the style of James Harrison ( rush and run contain). Not saying his is even close to Harrison but closing down the run has to be a priority for one of the edge rushers on this team.

My main issue with scouting all the edge rushers is in the way their sacks have occurred. Most (like the Jarvis Jones college sacks) come on free runs at the QB. These sacks quickly disappear in the NFL.

I prefer to watch how a player handles the other 98% of their rushes and how they fight to stay in the play. This is why I have Dupree at the top of my list.

(note: I haven't scouted Randy Gregory or Shane Ray as I believe they are out of play

[Dwinsgames]

I watched a lot of film on Dupree and the more I watch the more natural football instincts to read a play I see in him than other DE / OLB's

He diagnoses plays better than most. He doesn't put his head down and charge blindly. This makes him an asset in the run game as he is able to move towards the runner and not over run it. He remains in the play more than most. I see this a lot from guys like Orchard, Fowler, Mauldin, Kikaha. They are all good pass rushers ( equal to Dupree) but I think his asset is to contain the run game.

I see his awareness allowing him to slid past the blockers and get to the blocker. Truthfully I haven't seen him get locked up like you say.

He has played standing up, with his hand down and on both sides.

I am wanting a guy who can play in the style of James Harrison ( rush and run contain). Not saying his is even close to Harrison but closing down the run has to be a priority for one of the edge rushers on this team.

My main issue with scouting all the edge rushers is in the way their sacks have occurred. Most (like the Jarvis Jones college sacks) come on free runs at the QB. These sacks quickly disappear in the NFL.

I prefer to watch how a player handles the other 98% of their rushes and how they fight to stay in the play. This is why I have Dupree at the top of my list.

(note: I haven't scouted Randy Gregory or Shane Ray as I believe they are out of play

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1877307/alvin-dupree

Rob Rang says .....
WEAKNESSES: Needs to get stronger. Struggles to rip himself free once engaged, relying on his agility and savvy to slip by would-be blockers, rather than physically breaking their grasp. Rarely gets his hands up to cloud the vision of quarterbacks. Sometimes takes wide angles in pursuit, giving up extra yardage.
COMPARES TO: Kamerion Wimbley, Tennessee Titans - Like Wimbley, Dupree has the blend of length and burst to enjoy a long, productive career as an NFL edge rusher. To achieve his full potential, however, he'll need to get stronger in run support.



Matt Miller says .... http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2296741-2015-nfl-draft-matt-millers-scouting-notebook-for-week-15
Weaknesses


Must learn secondary pass-rushing moves. Needs a Plan-B pass rush.
Doesn't generate a ton of power for a good bull rush.
May be physically maxed out.
Film shows his production was at times uncontested and a routine play.
Has to improve angles to the ball-carrier vs. the run.
Can be slow off the ball and may be mis-timing snap anticipation.








NFL.com says .... http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/bud-dupree?id=2552289
Weaknesses

Tall but not long. Wins with athleticism over skill at this point. Some scouts believe his instincts are below average, leading to hesitation. Will get caught taking bad angles to the ball. Needs to improve hand fighting. Still raw rushing the passer. Doesn't possess a go-to pass-rush move. Appears to lack urgency in-game.



I want more in the first round than that ...we have one of those guys in Jarvis Jones ... fool me once shame on you fool me twice ... NOPE to steal a line from the immortal band the Who .... I wont get fooled again ....oh no

[Aussie_steeler]

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1877307/alvin-dupree

Rob Rang says .....


Matt Miller says .... http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2296741-2015-nfl-draft-matt-millers-scouting-notebook-for-week-15


NFL.com says .... http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/bud-dupree?id=2552289



I want more in the first round than that ...we have one of those guys in Jarvis Jones ... fool me once shame on you fool me twice ... NOPE to steal a line from the immortal band the Who .... I wont get fooled again ....oh no


But what do your eyes see Dwins?

In todays day and age a lot of internet guys are only watching draftbreakdown ( like you and me). Matt Miller may have better access to players at the organised events but at the end of the day it is all about film and their personal opinions.

By the nature of being an internet writer they all must write positives and negatives.

Lets analyse Matt millers comments

1. Elite athlete with grown-man strength, ideal wingspan and very good burst VERSUS Doesn't generate a ton of power for a good bull rush.

2. Added 15 pounds of muscle to his frame before senior season, per coaches. VERSUS May be physically maxed out.

3. Pops off game film as a player who lives around the ball. Impact defender consistently VERSUS Film shows his production was at times uncontested and a routine play.

4. Tackles with power and can be an intimidating hitter in space. VERSUS Tackles with power and can be an intimidating hitter in space. ( don't forget he was always around the ball)

I call Bullsh*t many times with these guys. They have to have an escape plan incase a player doesn't pan out.


When I see a bird that walks like a duck and swims like a duck and quacks like a duck, I call that bird a duck.

or

When I see a college player that (using Matt Millers words)
*Pops off game film as a player who lives around the ball. Impact defender consistently.
*Shows good Football IQ in reading-and-reacting to different offensive schemes.
*Coaches praise his work ethic and wiring as a player who "gets it."

then I call that man a football player in my mind.

and if you read all of Rob Rang's write up he either stole Millers info or Miller stole his. Or did both just steal it from the some scouting service????


I will stick to what my eyes tell me.

And Dwins, I trust your eyes, just like I trust Tex and Perry's.

[Dwinsgames]

But what do your eyes see Dwins?

In todays day and age a lot of internet guys are only watching draftbreakdown ( like you and me). Matt Miller may have better access to players at the organised events but at the end of the day it is all about film and their personal opinions.

By the nature of being an internet writer they all must write positives and negatives.

Lets analyse Matt millers comments

1. Elite athlete with grown-man strength, ideal wingspan and very good burst VERSUS Doesn't generate a ton of power for a good bull rush.

2. Added 15 pounds of muscle to his frame before senior season, per coaches. VERSUS May be physically maxed out.

3. Pops off game film as a player who lives around the ball. Impact defender consistently VERSUS Film shows his production was at times uncontested and a routine play.

4. Tackles with power and can be an intimidating hitter in space. VERSUS Tackles with power and can be an intimidating hitter in space. ( don't forget he was always around the ball)

I call Bullsh*t many times with these guys. They have to have an escape plan incase a player doesn't pan out.


When I see a bird that walks like a duck and swims like a duck and quacks like a duck, I call that bird a duck.

or

When I see a college player that (using Matt Millers words)
*Pops off game film as a player who lives around the ball. Impact defender consistently.
*Shows good Football IQ in reading-and-reacting to different offensive schemes.
*Coaches praise his work ethic and wiring as a player who "gets it."

then I call that man a football player in my mind.

and if you read all of Rob Rang's write up he either stole Millers info or Miller stole his. Or did both just steal it from the some scouting service????


I will stick to what my eyes tell me.

And Dwins, I trust your eyes, just like I trust Tex and Perry's.

I see a ton of good things and he also puts up very good numbers ... but we also seen some very good things and good numbers from Jarvis Jones , what concerns me so much is I got burned by Jones ( to this point ) and some of the things that I felt where weaknesses in Jones's college tape are also some of the same ones in Duprees game ( THAT scares the hell out of me )


I like Dupree but must be in the minority here on him ...

for me he lacks ideal strength and struggles to disengage once a Lineman gets his hands on him ( Jarvis Jones has the exact same problem ) , he does not take full advantage of his height and put him arms up to dispute the view of the QB ...

there are guys I like as much , maybe even more that may be had in the second round

and this




22 is just a bad bad spot in this draft IMO pretty large disparity in talent at most positions from 15-18 onward and if we cant get one of those top tier guys from that top area I am not so sure we should be selecting at that point cause the value is not truly there ... however that being said who is going to be dumb enough to want to come up ( unless its Denver wanting to come up and take a QB who may be there still in a guy like Conner Cook ?? ) ...

I like Dupree but is he a full round in the draft better than say Hauoli Kikaha (http://www.google.com/search?q=Hauoli+Kikaha+Draft+Profile&btnI&as_sitesearch=nfl.com) or Lorenzo Mauldin (http://www.google.com/search?q=Lorenzo+Mauldin+Draft+Profile&btnI&as_sitesearch=nfl.com) or Markus Golden (http://www.google.com/search?q=Markus+Golden+Draft+Profile&btnI&as_sitesearch=nfl.com) ... for me the answer is no

to me the value disparity between Dupree and the above 3 guys per example is not much talent wise ... however a full round ( maybe a bit more ) in draft slotting ( at this point we don't know that for certain its all conjecture ) .... I do not see the value in making that selection and I feel its a risky pick ...

I do believe Dupree is a slightly better prospect than Jones was but the similarities in their short comings scare me half to death

scratch The Connor Cook comment had missed where he stated was staying in school

[Dwinsgames]

as a side note ... could i be wrong .... certainly , clearly to this point I was on Jones

[Aussie_steeler]

I saw no run stopping capacity out of Jarvis ever. He was a rush guy, like Bruce Davis and other DE's we have missed on. Dupree is nothing like Jones in my eyes. ( chalk and cheese). Jones was schemed open all the time. Dupree is the primary rusher on a lesser team that commands more attention. He is around the ball and importantly for me, tackling low bringing the runner down more often than a person who tackles high. ( in all Southern Hemisphere football we are / and I was coached to tackle the legs and knees. you cant run without legs, no matter how tall the tree)

To me I would like to see Butler have one bigger rusher (like Dupree, Mauldin, Kikaha etc) who is able to change to the weak side to exploit the rush, whilst Jones is able to drop into coverage or rush depending on the read / call.

Worilds could well be that man ( I think the new buzz word is ELEPHANT) who is allowed exclusive rights to rush from the weak side, however not at $8M plus. I don't see anyone else on the roster who may fit that mould. Who that free agent is, I don't know but I am sure one will be coming in.

I think Butler will go full time 1 gap from the D-line ( we saw more of it this season) and he will have a four man rushing front. Also I don't want to see the teams best pass rusher dropping into coverage 25% of the time.

At 22 the realistic options for me are:

1. Brandon Scherff at OG ( DeCastro like fall because everyone has doubts on him as a LT). We don't need a round 1 OG
2. Melvin Gordon. He may well be on the board ( he shouldn't) so I would be trading this spot for someone who wants him
3. Brett Hundley. Someone always overdrafts a QB in the late 1st. Trade down to benefit.
4. Danny Shelton / Danny Goldman - for a 2 down lineman in our system I cannot see value
5. Fowler or Dupree: My eyes see a better football player in Dupree. ( I don't know how to describe it. I couldn't put a finger on it with Kiko Alonzo but I saw something. Same with Dupree. However I have been wrong with many others before)
6. For me the 2 CB's I like the look of are Marcus Peters and Jalen Collins and I wouldn't be surprised to see them climb. Remember Kyle Fuller last year. ( by the way the younger Fuller brother at VTech looks good too) Trae Waynes has been scorched too often for my liking.
7. It aint going to happen but I would even consider Shaq Thompson at SS ( but then we might as well just put Shazier there)

Butler will get a new toy, ideally a rush OLB. I think he will get one of Fowler, Dupree, Kikaha, Mauldin, Orchard. I would gladly take two.

What scares me is if it is Tomlins call I can see it being Orchard because of his speed edge over the others. ( I never saw Shazier ever being considered last year)

The next four months are going to be fun.

[Dwinsgames]

I saw no run stopping capacity out of Jarvis ever. He was a rush guy, like Bruce Davis and other DE's we have missed on. Dupree is nothing like Jones in my eyes. ( chalk and cheese). Jones was schemed open all the time. Dupree is the primary rusher on a lesser team that commands more attention. He is around the ball and importantly for me, tackling low bringing the runner down more often than a person who tackles high. ( in all Southern Hemisphere football we are / and I was coached to tackle the legs and knees. you cant run without legs, no matter how tall the tree)

To me I would like to see Butler have one bigger rusher (like Dupree, Mauldin, Kikaha etc) who is able to change to the weak side to exploit the rush, whilst Jones is able to drop into coverage or rush depending on the read / call.

Worilds could well be that man ( I think the new buzz word is ELEPHANT) who is allowed exclusive rights to rush from the weak side, however not at $8M plus. I don't see anyone else on the roster who may fit that mould. Who that free agent is, I don't know but I am sure one will be coming in.

I think Butler will go full time 1 gap from the D-line ( we saw more of it this season) and he will have a four man rushing front. Also I don't want to see the teams best pass rusher dropping into coverage 25% of the time.

At 22 the realistic options for me are:

1. Brandon Scherff at OG ( DeCastro like fall because everyone has doubts on him as a LT). We don't need a round 1 OG
2. Melvin Gordon. He may well be on the board ( he shouldn't) so I would be trading this spot for someone who wants him
3. Brett Hundley. Someone always overdrafts a QB in the late 1st. Trade down to benefit.
4. Danny Shelton / Danny Goldman - for a 2 down lineman in our system I cannot see value
5. Fowler or Dupree: My eyes see a better football player in Dupree. ( I don't know how to describe it. I couldn't put a finger on it with Kiko Alonzo but I saw something. Same with Dupree. However I have been wrong with many others before)
6. For me the 2 CB's I like the look of are Marcus Peters and Jalen Collins and I wouldn't be surprised to see them climb. Remember Kyle Fuller last year. ( by the way the younger Fuller brother at VTech looks good too) Trae Waynes has been scorched too often for my liking.
7. It aint going to happen but I would even consider Shaq Thompson at SS ( but then we might as well just put Shazier there)

Butler will get a new toy, ideally a rush OLB. I think he will get one of Fowler, Dupree, Kikaha, Mauldin, Orchard. I would gladly take two.

What scares me is if it is Tomlins call I can see it being Orchard because of his speed edge over the others. ( I never saw Shazier ever being considered last year)

The next four months are going to be fun.

good post and I fully understand 5 ...

have that unexplainable feeling about several kids every year , cant quite put my finger on a way to explain the "IT" but the feeling is there regardless

next week could make a difference in how I look at a few kids as well ......... I know yesterday disappointed me on some guys who could have made money solidifying themselves at the shrine game a few did pop and make money but damned few compared to the list of guys who could have , some who I had as late 4th onward may actually go undrafted because of it ...

but if I am pulling the trigger in this draft I am going to get SOMEBODY in the defensive backfield with my first pick ( be is CB or S ) and address the pass rush in round 2 ( unless the unfathomable happens and Ray falls 10 or more spots to us )

Holliman 12 or 13 INT is very tempting we need a turnover machine but his seemingly fear of contact is concerning for our play style so he may not even be on their board

Prewitt had a horrible bowl game .... may drop some because of it but was never any better than a 2nd rounder anyways

Smith and Drummond are also 2md -3rd round kind of players that can add some excitement to the def ....

so no real S 1st round guy that fits this team or has 22 kind of value ....

for me this sucks .... I hate being forced into a corner with my selections and we almost are IMO , that is a recipe to over draft on pure need and I hate it ...

when you have 2 specific needs and 1 is considerably larger than the other the potential top make a bad pick is dramatically increased

[Texasteel]

for me this sucks .... I hate being forced into a corner with my selections and we almost are IMO , that is a recipe to over draft on pure need and I hate it ...

when you have 2 specific needs and 1 is considerably larger than the other the potential top make a bad pick is dramatically increased

We may be able to force our way out of that corner. Points 1, 2, 3, 4, and maybe 5 in Aussies post, could be our way out. If one or two of those players make it to 22, there will likely be a team or two falling all over themselves to trade up. We could go from over drafting a player, to getting more out of our pick than we should. If the team thinks that Dupree is the guy they want, or what ever CB that may be there for that matter, they should take him. Otherwise, there is going to be some very good players available in the 2nd and 3rd rounds. Players that would fit our team and make contributions fairly quickly. 2 picks in the 2nd, and 2, maybe 3 if we get a 3rd round comp., would go a long ways in fixing our defense, used properly.

Remember there is still a few players on this team that are question marks. Will Jones show improvement, or turn out to be the bust several think he is? Was Mitchel and Allen in deed injured most of this year, and will they show the ability we thought they had? Will the OL continue to improve, or be as inconsistent has they have been in the past? Can Thomas stay healthy?

Your right Aussie, this is going to be a fun, and frustrating off season.

[steelerdude15]

So, I've been looking at bigger running backs in this years draft that are durable and strong. It would be nice to have a bigger running back who could help the offense with short yardage plays and punching in touchdowns at the goal line. Also, it would be nice to have a bigger running back who could be a nice complement for Le'Veon. A couple of guys have caught my eye and could help our offense. I would say these guys would be drafted anywhere from the forth to the seventh round; players who the Steelers wouldn't use a high draft pick on. Anyways, the first person who comes to mind is David Cobb of Minnesota. According to WalterFootball.com, he is 5-11 and 220 pounds. He's physical, is good with ball security, and has good vision. Here's a short video of his highlights from this past year:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSHhWohBk1c

Here is his profile by CBS Sports: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1824389/david-cobb

Another guy is Malcolm Brown of Texas. Per WalterFootball.com, he is 6-1 and 228 pounds. Like Cobb, he is physical, is good with ball security, and has good vision, but is even more physical, faster, and has a better first step then Cobb. Here is a video:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVYtWF3aRAo

CBS Sports profile: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVYtWF3aRAo

[Dwinsgames]

Out me down for this kid

http://www.ncaa.com/video/football/2014-11-29/cfb-stephen-f-austin-state-northern-iowa

[Steelman]

Not sure if this was posted earlier, here's Alex's breakdown of Dupree: http://www.steelersdepot.com/2015/01/2015-nfl-draft-player-profiles-kentucky-olb-alvin-dupree/

[Dwinsgames]

Not sure if this was posted earlier, here's Alex's breakdown of Dupree: http://www.steelersdepot.com/2015/01/2015-nfl-draft-player-profiles-kentucky-olb-alvin-dupree/

nice piece of work by Alex , a lot that I agree with...

as a side note Alex had come a LONG ways in the last two years in his player breakdowns and evaluations , he is good and his arrow is pointed up

[Aussie_steeler]

Out me down for this kid

http://www.ncaa.com/video/football/2014-11-29/cfb-stephen-f-austin-state-northern-iowa

He measured in well today at the Senior Bowl.

I watched the cut ups on him last night and he is a highlight real package.

Liked his speed, ability to turn the corner, hands out of the backfield, route running and size.

He didn't show much between the tackles which left me with some questions. Good 3rd down back but can he be a workhorse between the tackles in the NFL??

Don't know if it is a positive or a negative but he looks really loose in the legs when he runs. He looks built for speed, not power.

[Dwinsgames]

Rumored that Steelers are enamored with Carl Davis ... he is IMO a second round prospect .. many like him as much or more than Shelton but he figures to be a 2nd round pick ..

that being said make of it what you will

if believing the rumor mill

that would have us Taking

1) Johnson CB

2) Carl Davis NT

[st33lersguy]

Not sure if this was posted earlier, here's Alex's breakdown of Dupree: http://www.steelersdepot.com/2015/01/2015-nfl-draft-player-profiles-kentucky-olb-alvin-dupree/

I say no to Dupree based on lack of strength, and hell no to Dupree over a DB

[st33lersguy]

I say no to Dupree based on lack of strength, and hell no to Dupree over a DB

Also, the guy is raw, I don't like raw. Raw is OK in the 3rd day when picks panning out mean less, but in the 1st round, I want a polished player who mastered the game at the college level.

[Aussie_steeler]

(older rumor) Dave-Te Thomas draft chat a few weeks ago at

http://profootball.scout.com/story/1499077-2015-draft-chat-nfl-scout-dave-te-thomas


Which cornerbacks would fit best into the Steelers' defensive scheme?

First, they need to blow up the defense & change their scheme - man coverage no longer works in this league. They need to address the front 7 first & then OLB, but look for Ike Taylor, Polomalu & probably Cortez Allen no longer Steelers. They have a sleeper in Blake, but Rollins-Miami, Ohio & Eric Rowe-Utah would be nice finds in round 3/4 area

Heard they were interested (Pitt) in Collins-LSU as a CB & not as a safety also

[Aussie_steeler]

Also, the guy is raw, I don't like raw. Raw is OK in the 3rd day when picks panning out mean less, but in the 1st round, I want a polished player who mastered the game at the college level.

All the scouts, even on this board, will never admit that any guy has mastered the game at the college level.

I heard a podcast today that mentioned a one year player (ex basketballer) who may move into first round steeler range after the combine. He hasn't even begun to learn his position, let alone understand the game.

http://www.steelersdepot.com/2015/01/2015-nfl-draft-player-profiles-miami-oh-cb-quinten-rollins/

[st33lersguy]

All the scouts, even on this board, will never admit that any guy has mastered the game at the college level.

I heard a podcast today that mentioned a one year player (ex basketballer) who may move into first round steeler range after the combine. He hasn't even begun to learn his position, let alone understand the game.

http://www.steelersdepot.com/2015/01/2015-nfl-draft-player-profiles-miami-oh-cb-quinten-rollins/

I am talking about raw still learning the position vs a guy who is technically sound who had a great career at the college level

[TMC]

I am not a big Dupree fan. I think he struggles to shed blockers and if the Steelers want a guy that can help them early, I would rather have a lesser athlete that is more developed in his game than I would an elite athlete that has a steep learning curve. I think Dupree is a couple seasons away at best. And, he tends to want to hang outside sometimes, keeping space between himself and a blocker. I am not so sure that he is reading the play or if he does not want to engage because he cannot shed the block. He would rather run around the blocker than beat it. If he goes in the first, I hope he goes somewhere else. Just do not think he is worth that value. I would rather move down and take another guy later. I think the 2nd round is where the real value is found when you are looking for a pass rusher.

[Dwinsgames]

I am not a big Dupree fan. I think he struggles to shed blockers and if the Steelers want a guy that can help them early, I would rather have a lesser athlete that is more developed in his game than I would an elite athlete that has a steep learning curve. I think Dupree is a couple seasons away at best. And, he tends to want to hang outside sometimes, keeping space between himself and a blocker. I am not so sure that he is reading the play or if he does not want to engage because he cannot shed the block. He would rather run around the blocker than beat it. If he goes in the first, I hope he goes somewhere else. Just do not think he is worth that value. I would rather move down and take another guy later. I think the 2nd round is where the real value is found when you are looking for a pass rusher.


I am not a fan of Dupree in round 1 either , value not there at all for me , would much rather have several of the guys many thing will be on the board in round 2 ( nearly same talent level and much better value ) talked about this earlier in the thread

- - - Updated - - -


may be a bit high at 22 ...

22 is just a bad bad spot in this draft IMO pretty large disparity in talent at most positions from 15-18 onward and if we cant get one of those top tier guys from that top area I am not so sure we should be selecting at that point cause the value is not truly there ... however that being said who is going to be dumb enough to want to come up ( unless its Denver wanting to come up and take a QB who may be there still in a guy like Conner Cook ?? ) ...

I like Dupree but is he a full round in the draft better than say Hauoli Kikaha (http://www.google.com/search?q=Hauoli+Kikaha+Draft+Profile&btnI&as_sitesearch=nfl.com) or Lorenzo Mauldin (http://www.google.com/search?q=Lorenzo+Mauldin+Draft+Profile&btnI&as_sitesearch=nfl.com) or Markus Golden (http://www.google.com/search?q=Markus+Golden+Draft+Profile&btnI&as_sitesearch=nfl.com) ... for me the answer is no

take away the Connor Cook statement because he did not declare

[TMC]

A guy I like is Hau'oli Kikaha. Now, he is far from a finished product in coverage and may never be as good as Woodley, but he does drop in zones and will pick up some man coverage at times. In that area, he is not great, but good enough. He is pretty stout at the point. I like how he bends the corner. Even when offensive tackles engage, he does a nice job of not getting run past the QB. He also uses that outside speed rush to set up some inside moves. He will throw a spin, shows the rip, arm over, and works well with his hands. He is a guy that does not seem to stick on blocks. Instead of posting a ton of videos showing a lot of stuff, here are some highlights for Danny Shelton. I would suggest watching how many times Kikaha ran the arc and forced the QB to step up. Shelton made a lot of plays because the QB stepped right into his kitchen and much of that was due to Kikaha forcing the issue. I would also point out how many times teams slipped their RB over to help the OT on Kikaha.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjSO21zK5EQ
The kid from UCLA with every letter of the alphabet in his name is pretty solid too. I like Fowler, just not sure I want to pay that price. All those guys get off blockers. Tired of seeing OLBs have a tackle put their hands on them and they are done.

[Shoes]

Man,Shelton looks very quick for his size! Do you take him if he's there at 22?

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000462723/article/mayock-danny-shelton-in-same-category-as-vince-wilfork

[Dwinsgames]

Man,Shelton looks very quick for his size! Do you take him if he's there at 22?

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000462723/article/mayock-danny-shelton-in-same-category-as-vince-wilfork

I wouldn't ... I think he is over rated , he has some good tape no question about it but he also turns in his fair share of dud performances ..

[Dwinsgames]

kinda funny look who they compare Shelton to ( and the review not all that great either ) seems they like him even less than me but for all the same reasons http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/danny-shelton?id=2552325

[TMC]

Man,Shelton looks very quick for his size! Do you take him if he's there at 22?

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000462723/article/mayock-danny-shelton-in-same-category-as-vince-wilfork

I do not. I think Shelton will struggle to hold his ground in the NFL and will have to work on that area. When he locks up with guys, he tends to press to a side, working to get free. He does that on his own often. He gives up gap integrity when he does it. In essence, he does not have the feel of a 2-gap guy. Those things happen when he is asked to play a 2-gap style. He just lacks the ability to grow roots and hold the position. He is at his best when he can work into a gap, play up the field, and penetrate. I think his best fit is in an up-tempo 4-3 chase defense like you see with Atlanta, Tampa Bay, Detroit, or St. Louis. I think asking him to play the nose in a 3-4 is taking him away from his strength unless you run a Ryan 3-4, where you 1-gap the nose.

I also think that since the Steelers went with undersized ILBs, you need a 2-gap nose. It would preclude a fundamental change in our defense. And, if you put on the junior tape of Stephon Tuitt, he plays a very similar style. The difference is, Tuitt showed the ability to be a 2-gap player as well. He was not as effective as a senior when he weighed 320, but is back down to 305 now and has that quickness back.

Another thing that bothers me, Shelton was weighed at the Senior Bowl and touched the scale at 343-pounds. He pumped his fist, happy. He stated he ballooned to 360-pounds after the football season was over. Steeler fans were all over Casey Hampton at the end of his career because of his size, but few remember that Hampton was only 314-pounds at the combine. Shelton is a big dude right now. His weight is an issue. If you look at Hampton while at Texas, he did not carry a pile of weight on his mid-section.
http://ww2.hdnux.com/photos/31/12/25/6595913/3/960x540.jpg

But, compare that to Shelton:
http://thumb.usatodaysportsimages.com/image/thumb/650-510nw/8178212.jpg

Shelton looks like Hampton does when Hampton was 30. What if he adds the weight back after he gets drafted?

[Dwinsgames]

I do not. I think Shelton will struggle to hold his ground in the NFL and will have to work on that area. When he locks up with guys, he tends to press to a side, working to get free. He does that on his own often. He gives up gap integrity when he does it. In essence, he does not have the feel of a 2-gap guy. Those things happen when he is asked to play a 2-gap style. He just lacks the ability to grow roots and hold the position. He is at his best when he can work into a gap, play up the field, and penetrate. I think his best fit is in an up-tempo 4-3 chase defense like you see with Atlanta, Tampa Bay, Detroit, or St. Louis. I think asking him to play the nose in a 3-4 is taking him away from his strength unless you run a Ryan 3-4, where you 1-gap the nose.

I also think that since the Steelers went with undersized ILBs, you need a 2-gap nose. It would preclude a fundamental change in our defense. And, if you put on the junior tape of Stephon Tuitt, he plays a very similar style. The difference is, Tuitt showed the ability to be a 2-gap player as well. He was not as effective as a senior when he weighed 320, but is back down to 305 now and has that quickness back.

Another thing that bothers me, Shelton was weighed at the Senior Bowl and touched the scale at 343-pounds. He pumped his fist, happy. He stated he ballooned to 360-pounds after the football season was over. Steeler fans were all over Casey Hampton at the end of his career because of his size, but few remember that Hampton was only 314-pounds at the combine. Shelton is a big dude right now. His weight is an issue. If you look at Hampton while at Texas, he did not carry a pile of weight on his mid-section.
http://ww2.hdnux.com/photos/31/12/25/6595913/3/960x540.jpg

But, compare that to Shelton:
http://thumb.usatodaysportsimages.com/image/thumb/650-510nw/8178212.jpg

Shelton looks like Hampton does when Hampton was 30. What if he adds the weight back after he gets drafted?


he is the Willie Parker of DT's , he feasts vs weaker opponents ( more specifically weak centers ) and struggles vs the better ones , not someone I would want to invest a first round pick in

[Texasteel]

With a couple of the latest developments at WR. it look like we may be more interested in drafting a WR. I think we would have anyway, but now it could be a little more serious. There are a couple of names I am very interested in.


Jamison Crowder. Despite his lack of size has shown he maybe one to watch. Is more quick than fast, and can change direction in a dime. I think this is more important in getting himself open. Has good hands and looks to be an instinctive runner which has served him well in the past as a punt returner. Problem, his showing in Senior Bowl practice has brought him a lot of attention. May be the fastest riser as a WR. If him shows this well at the combines he could go much to high for us. I think a good receiver coach would have a field day with this kid.

Tony Lippett. Tony has been one of my favorite WR possibilities. He has very large hand, and a larger catching radius. He is not a body catcher and will snag the ball long before it gets to his body. He will jump, dive, and fight for a catch,,, even if it is not his job,,,, and has often foiled an int. simply be taking the ball away from the defender. Would make a good red zone WR. Probably a 3rd or 4th round pick.

Antwan Goodiey. Has had a good year on an underrated pass happy team. Just seems to make the catch when he had to. Likely to be a later round pick.

Any WRs you would like us to look at? Try to keep it real.

[Drazo85]

Any WRs you would like us to look at? Try to keep it real.

What about Tyler Lockett from Kansas State?

[st33lersguy]

I am just going to throw this out there because it's on my mind and he has been mocked to the Steelers on 2 of the 4 mock drafts I saw on my mock draft binge. If the Steelers select Marcus Peters, I will throw something to the ground like Rex Ryan at the end of the 2010 AFC Championship game. The Steelers have failed miserably with multiple basket cases and there are plenty of ways the Steelers can address the cornerback position without risking disaster.

[Dwinsgames]

I am just going to throw this out there because it's on my mind and he has been mocked to the Steelers on 2 of the 4 mock drafts I saw on my mock draft binge. If the Steelers select Marcus Peters, I will throw something to the ground like Rex Ryan at the end of the 2010 AFC Championship game. The Steelers have failed miserably with multiple basket cases and there are plenty of ways the Steelers can address the cornerback position without risking disaster.


I agree 110% we have had our share of 10 cent heads , no need to travel that road again any time soon

[st33lersguy]

With a couple of the latest developments at WR. it look like we may be more interested in drafting a WR. I think we would have anyway, but now it could be a little more serious. There are a couple of names I am very interested in.

In my personal opinion, I really don't see the value in drafting a wide receiver. We have AB, a rising player in Martavis Bryant, Wheaton did good enough for his position as a no. 3 WR, and we have probably the best pass-catching RB in the game with Le'Veon Bell, and Heath Miller to catch some passes. That leaves us with a no. 4 WR, a position of little-to-no value. Last year our no. 4 WR was Lance Moore, and he was used so infrequently that he is requesting a release. In my opinion, we can get away with signing random guys in free agency (including un-drafted free agency) to fill the WR depth chart. That's just me, Todd Haley may possibly want to draft one of his other X-factor wide receivers, and I am sure Kevin Colbert has discrepancies in opinions to me on somethings

[Dwinsgames]

In my personal opinion, I really don't see the value in drafting a wide receiver. We have AB, a rising player in Martavis Bryant, Wheaton did good enough for his position as a no. 3 WR, and we have probably the best pass-catching RB in the game with Le'Veon Bell, and Heath Miller to catch some passes. That leaves us with a no. 4 WR, a position of little-to-no value. Last year our no. 4 WR was Lance Moore, and he was used so infrequently that he is requesting a release. In my opinion, we can get away with signing random guys in free agency (including un-drafted free agency) to fill the WR depth chart. That's just me, Todd Haley may possibly want to draft one of his other X-factor wide receivers, and I am sure Kevin Colbert has discrepancies in opinions to me on somethings

I would be fine with a couple UDFA types with the right body size , hand and willingness to block top be tossed into the mix and see what develops ( or doesn't and call it a day ) unless someone just to good to pass on falls to late in the draft then by all means take a swing at the fences ...otherwise stay the course and draft Def skill players for the backend , pass rushers and the token TE perhaps a O-Lineman that can play all 3 interior spots ..... spend any free money for a proven Tackle

give me a couple guys like this to get an extended look at for basically free and see what our coaches can do with him


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENljSs-8ZLQ&app=desktop

[TMC]

In my personal opinion, I really don't see the value in drafting a wide receiver. We have AB, a rising player in Martavis Bryant, Wheaton did good enough for his position as a no. 3 WR, and we have probably the best pass-catching RB in the game with Le'Veon Bell, and Heath Miller to catch some passes. That leaves us with a no. 4 WR, a position of little-to-no value. Last year our no. 4 WR was Lance Moore, and he was used so infrequently that he is requesting a release. In my opinion, we can get away with signing random guys in free agency (including un-drafted free agency) to fill the WR depth chart. That's just me, Todd Haley may possibly want to draft one of his other X-factor wide receivers, and I am sure Kevin Colbert has discrepancies in opinions to me on somethings

I think this draft is pretty strong at WR, so I would not mind if they spent a pick on one, especially if the right player hit them in the right round. For example, if Sammie Coates slipped to the second round, I would have to strongly consider him. I know it is a second round pick, but it is also a chance to add a dynamic player at WR, I mean a potential consistent visitor to the Pro Bowl. I doubt it happens, but he would be hard to just let slide into the 3rd. Very unlikely, kind of talking out my rear, but I just think if talent falls in your lap, you have to take the talent.

With all that said, I can see them investing a 4th/5th/6th on a WR because in this draft, I think you could hit another Brown type guy in those rounds (not necessarily a Pro Bowler, but a quality WR).

[Texasteel]

I don't think they would use a pick in any of the first four rounds on a WR, unless something unthinkable happens, but I have thought all alone they would use one of the last two picks on one. I think they may even use a 5th. Particularly if our comp. pick turns out to be a 5th.

[Steelerette]

Comp pick round pick on a WR, I can handle that.

But with Brown, Wheaton, Bryant, and probably DHB. I won't be surprised if we draft a guy but I also would probably expect some combination of a veteran retread and UDFA talent to be competing with DHB for spots 4 and 5.

[Aussie_steeler]

You guys might like this draft related video. As I get closer to the draft the players names all seem to get jumbled up in my head


https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=gODZzSOelss

[Texasteel]

Have been looking at a few mocks, and saw a couple that had us taking Peters, but have more that have us taking Rollins. I know Rollins has been rising fast, but I have never seen him play. Will have to pull up a couple videos on the kid.

[Dwinsgames]

Have been looking at a few mocks, and saw a couple that had us taking Peters, but have more that have us taking Rollins. I know Rollins has been rising fast, but I have never seen him play. Will have to pull up a couple videos on the kid.

very athletic , inexperienced so raw to a degree , has a high ceiling but those type picks are risky but at times can also pay high dividends , I think round 1 is to soon but it only takes 1 team to fall in love

[Texasteel]

very athletic , inexperienced so raw to a degree , has a high ceiling but those type picks are risky but at times can also pay high dividends , I think round 1 is to soon but it only takes 1 team to fall in love

Which brings us back to get the hell out of the 1st round.

[st33lersguy]

Have been looking at a few mocks, and saw a couple that had us taking Peters, but have more that have us taking Rollins. I know Rollins has been rising fast, but I have never seen him play. Will have to pull up a couple videos on the kid.

The kid has only played one year of college ball I think. The Steelers really should draft a corner with more experience, someone who isn't that much of a project

[Aussie_steeler]

Daniel Jeremiah has a podcast called Move the Sticks. His last episode was all about how the NFL teams he worked for and how they set their draft boards and what impact the combine has on the movement of players up and down those boards

He also read some of his old scouting reports in full for some current players ( Brian Orakpo was one I can remember)

Very insightful podcast and one that definitely helped this inexperienced NFL mind.

[Texasteel]

Just a pre-combine mock. Not taking into account any trades that probably won't happen any way.


1. PJ Williams, CB, Got on his bandwagon early, not getting off now

2. Hauoli Kikaha (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1785852/hauoli-kikaha), OLB, Has show an ability to find a path to the QB

3. Gerod Holliman, FS, A hedge for a position that we are still unsure about.

4. David Johnson, RB, If we don't sign a FA could be a good running mate for Bell

5. Xavier Williams, DT, Could be useful if we do play more 4-3.

6. Miles Dieffenbach, OG. A gamble. If he can come back from his torn ACL would likely be a steal in the 6th.

7. Don't really have a name here, but would like to see us give one of the small school kids given a shot. Maybe a kid Dwins brought to our attention like Dante Moses.

If we get a comp. pick early enough would like to see us draft another CB. I think Doss is very underrated right now, and would work his way into the starting line up teaming him with Williams.

I know there has got to be a name here you don't like. Tell me who.

[Aussie_steeler]

We have been doing this a lot time TEX.

This has got to be the first year that you and I aren't on the same wavelength with players. Position wise we very close.


1. PJ Williams, CB, ......................... Marcus Peters CB

2. Hauoli Kikaha (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1785852/hauoli-kikaha), OLB,.................... Lorenzo Mauldin OLB

3. Gerod Holliman, FS, ..................Derron Smith FS

4. David Johnson, RB,...................... Jeremy Langford RB

5. Xavier Williams, DT...................... Derrick Lott DT

6. Miles Dieffenbach, OG. ................. Tyrus Thompson OT

7. Dante Moses...............................


this is the most polarising draft class I have seen for a long time.

Across the board I see players with a good range of skills but with some noticeable holes in their game.

eg. Kikaha is a strong, leverage pass rusher who struggles in coverage whilst Mauldin has less strength but greater range.


In Aussie terms: If we are going to local dance we all fell like we are taking a good looking girl , but she certainly isn't a beauty queen. But we are confident that our date is better looking than our best friends girl. To make ourselves feel better we all decide to drink more beer to ensure she looks prettier than she really is. Then you hope in the morning when you wake up you hope that you don't have to chew your own arm off to get away.

Translation: I think my players are OK but I definitely have reservations about them, plus the other viable options.

[Texasteel]

We're not as far off as you may think Ausse. If the Steeler are comfortable with Peters I would take him in a heart beat. I just don't have that comfort zone with Peters yet. To me he is high reward, higher risk right now.
Mauldin would be my second choice at OLB. Just thinking Kikaha could power himself through a block if he gets tied up in traffic. You do have a good point with the coverage though.
I went back and forth between Holliman and Smith. This is liable to be a choice one of the teams ahead of us makes for us.
Don't see Langford getting out of the 3rd round, plus I think Johnson running with a little more power.
Thompson would be a safer pick but I see Dieffenbach as a high risk, high reward player, a gamble I would be willing to take with a 6th round pick.

Your right most all of these kids have holes in their game. Hopefully some of these holes can be coached out of them.

[Dwinsgames]

We have been doing this a lot time TEX.

This has got to be the first year that you and I aren't on the same wavelength with players. Position wise we very close.


1. PJ Williams, CB, ......................... Marcus Peters CB

2. Hauoli Kikaha (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1785852/hauoli-kikaha), OLB,.................... Lorenzo Mauldin OLB

3. Gerod Holliman, FS, ..................Derron Smith FS

4. David Johnson, RB,...................... Jeremy Langford RB

5. Xavier Williams, DT...................... Derrick Lott DT

6. Miles Dieffenbach, OG. ................. Tyrus Thompson OT

7. Dante Moses...............................


this is the most polarising draft class I have seen for a long time.

Across the board I see players with a good range of skills but with some noticeable holes in their game.

eg. Kikaha is a strong, leverage pass rusher who struggles in coverage whilst Mauldin has less strength but greater range.


In Aussie terms: If we are going to local dance we all fell like we are taking a good looking girl , but she certainly isn't a beauty queen. But we are confident that our date is better looking than our best friends girl. To make ourselves feel better we all decide to drink more beer to ensure she looks prettier than she really is. Then you hope in the morning when you wake up you hope that you don't have to chew your own arm off to get away.

Translation: I think my players are OK but I definitely have reservations about them, plus the other viable options.


kind of funny but I could see either of those drafts being my mock ...

the only changes I would make is round 6 pencil me in for Carlif Taylor DT-NT ( I like him a little more than Williams but its close )

round 7 as much as I like Moses I like Arthur Ray Jr a little better ( can play all 3 interior spots )


nice mocks though both of you

[Aussie_steeler]

Detailed interview with Marcus Peters

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/02/11/marcus-peters-washington-nfl-draft-combine/23259443/
(http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/02/11/marcus-peters-washington-nfl-draft-combine/23259443/)

[Texasteel]

Has the sound of a carefully prepared statement. My first thought was. Why speak up now? The answer may be the combines.

I hope the young man is sincere, and has his head ready to move forward. He will likely be a hell of a player. I would be more interested in the private interviews. Peters only has to convince one team, the right team. If that team is Pittsburgh I will be on that bandwagon till he pushes me off. Peters has a job in front of him.

[Steelman]

Maybe he and Cortez can start a Headcase Club together and work their shit out. :chuckle:

[LLT]

1. CB P.J. Williams of FSU….Like most on this board, I like Williams a LOT. Unlike most..I also like Trae Waynes. In actuality I think it will be a moot point because a team like the Chargers or Eagles will probably grab Trae Waynes before we pick at #22 and Williams should be there for us.

2. CB Ronald Darby of Florida state…Yes, Im doubling up early. If Darby passes the character test, he possibly has one of the highest ceilings of any of this years cornerbacks. True cover corner.

3. OLB Markus Golden of Missouri…I’m not as big of a fan of Hau'Oli Kikaha as some. He looked like he lacked strength at the senior bowl. If Nate Orchard were still on the board I would grab him up in a New York minute, but I think he will be gone. Golden actually impresses me as I watch tape on him and I think that he could push for a starting position by the end of the year.

4. SS Jaquiski Tartt of Samford…This is a guy that I think just needs a little tweeking to be a VERY good free safety. Small school prospect but looked solid at the senior bowl. Mix him in this year and I think he is a future starter in the outfield.

5. RB Matt Jones of Florida….Strong back who hits the hole hard. Chain mover who would be a complimentary back to Bell and a wave starter if needed.

6. WR Titus Davis of Central Michigan…Not a burner, but perhaps one of the best route running WR’s in this class. Shows the technique to separate and has soft hands.

7. NT Terry Williams of East Carolina….sleeper pick for me. HUGE man with a bit of a character concern, but hey…its worth a 7th round gamble.

[LLT]

With a couple of the latest developments at WR. it look like we may be more interested in drafting a WR. I think we would have anyway, but now it could be a little more serious. There are a couple of names I am very interested in.

Any WRs you would like us to look at? Try to keep it real.


Titus Davis is really starting to pique my interest. 6'2 190lbs. Played at Central Michigan. Only player in NCAA history to ever catch 8 or more touchdown passes in four years. One of the best route runners I have seen in a few years. Doesnt appear to have blazing speed but seems fast enough and very good quickness.

[LLT]

1. CB P.J. Williams of FSU….Like most on this board, I like Williams a LOT. Unlike most..I also like Trae Waynes. In actuality I think it will be a moot point because a team like the Chargers or Eagles will probably grab Trae Waynes before we pick at #22 and Williams should be there for us.

2. CB Ronald Darby of Florida state…Yes, Im doubling up early. If Darby passes the character test, he possibly has one of the highest ceilings of any of this years cornerbacks. True cover corner.



Looks like Williams stock took a hit...while Darby is on the rise.

[Dwinsgames]

Looks like Williams stock took a hit...while Darby is on the rise.

I wouldnt put a ton of stock into talking heads with stock rising /falling unless there is documented reasons behind it ( like trouble with the law or failed drug tests from combine ) you know how it is every year we hear this stuff and come draft week most of it amounts to a whole lot to do about nothing when it comes time to walk to the podium ...

Per example a month ago Darby stock was falling and some had him as late as round 4 ( 2 months ago 2nd rounder ) now back to where it all started ...

[LLT]

I wouldnt put a ton of stock into talking heads with stock rising /falling unless there is documented reasons behind it ( like trouble with the law or failed drug tests from combine ) you know how it is every year we hear this stuff and come draft week most of it amounts to a whole lot to do about nothing when it comes time to walk to the podium ...

Per example a month ago Darby stock was falling and some had him as late as round 4 ( 2 months ago 2nd rounder ) now back to where it all started ...

Well...that would be true if I was basing my opinion on the talking heads thoughts. But I'm not. I'm talking about a slow 40 time PLUS some pretty obvious hitches in his backpedal and what looked (to me) like hesitation or wasted motion in transition at the top of his backpedal. Even turning the wrong way at one point

He has a good chance of redeeming himself at the pro day due to good instincts and even with a mid 4.5 range he could still be a first rounder...but what is alarming is that his 20 yard shuttle was the 4th slowest out of all defensive backs..and his three cone drill was the 6th worst. He is going to have to show a whole lot more at the pro day to not slide into the second.


That being said....Darby looked smooth in his transition...good quickness...and fundamentally solid in his backpedal. Good drop on the hips and fluid in on the back end. No wasted motion at all.

Someone else that I thought looked great but isn't getting much coverage is Craig Mager from Texas St.

[Devilsdancefloor]

dream pick danny shleton
reality landon collins right now even though i love williams, but mitchell was not to impressive, but i am hoping ha turns around this year

[LLT]

dream pick danny shleton
reality landon collins right now even though i love williams, but mitchell was not to impressive, but i am hoping ha turns around this year

Dream pick? CB Trae Waynes

[Texasteel]

Well...that would be true if I was basing my opinion on the talking heads thoughts. But I'm not. I'm talking about a slow 40 time PLUS some pretty obvious hitches in his backpedal and what looked (to me) like hesitation or wasted motion in transition at the top of his backpedal. Even turning the wrong way at one point

He has a good chance of redeeming himself at the pro day due to good instincts and even with a mid 4.5 range he could still be a first rounder...but what is alarming is that his 20 yard shuttle was the 4th slowest out of all defensive backs..and his three cone drill was the 6th worst. He is going to have to show a whole lot more at the pro day to not slide into the second.


That being said....Darby looked smooth in his transition...good quickness...and fundamentally solid in his backpedal. Good drop on the hips and fluid in on the back end. No wasted motion at all.

Someone else that I thought looked great but isn't getting much coverage is Craig Mager from Texas St.

Can't get the combine, but I haven't noticed those traits out of Williams during the season. Lets see if he bounces back on Pro Day.

I always thought Darby would make a good second round pick. I think most of the teams would have agreed, just not the talking heads.

I think you can put the Waynes idea back to bed now LLT.

I was encouraged by what one of my preseason favorites did, Jones out of Connecticut. Looks like he may be bouncing back from the injury very well.