Early 2018 Mock Draft

[Steelerette]

1. Justin Reid FS Stanford
2. Dorance Armstrong OLB Kansas
3. Mason Rudolph QB OK State
5. Antonio Callaway WR Florida
5. Ralph Webb RB Vandy
7. Will Gleeson P Ole Miss
7. Mavin Saunders TE FSU

(assuming the conditional for Cockrell will be a 7th)

[Steeldude]

I can't nail down who to pick by name. I just want the Steelers to BPA a OLB, ILB, S, CB, or TE.

[Iron Steeler]

What pick do we have?

[teegre]

1. Justin Reid FS Stanford

:nod:

- - - Updated - - -


What pick do we have?

28

[st33lersguy]

My first mock from walkthemock (only has the Steelers with 1 7th round pick)

1:28 Malik Jefferson LB Texas
2:28 Quin Blanding FS Virginia
3:28 Luke Falk QB Washington St.
5:9 Jaylen Samuels TE NC St.
5:28 Jalen Jelks EDGE Oregon
7:28 Mike McCray LB Michigan

[teegre]

My first mock from walkthemock (only has the Steelers with 1 7th round pick)
1:28 Malik Jefferson LB Texas


I go back & forth with my R1 pick, between Malik Jefferson and Justin Reid.

[Steelerette]

My first mock from walkthemock (only has the Steelers with 1 7th round pick)

The slots you have are right on the money. Where I got that other 7th: I believe we're due a conditional pick for the Cockrell trade and I'm presuming that it'll be a seventh rounder.

[Born2Steel]

Just stoooopid early, but here it goes....

Rd1. Terrell Edmunds Safety VT
Rd2. Leighton Vander Esch LB Boise State
Rd3. Chad Thomas OLB Miami
Rd5a. Kenny Young ILB UCLA
Rd5b. LJ Scott RB MichState
Rd7. Shaquem Griffin LB UCF

And there it is.

[teegre]

Just stoooopid early, but here it goes....

Rd1. Terrell Edmunds Safety VT
Rd2. Leighton Vander Esch LB Boise State
Rd3. Chad Thomas OLB Miami
Rd5a. Kenny Young ILB UCLA
Rd5b. LJ Scott RB MichState
Rd7. Shaquem Griffin LB UCF

And there it is.

I could certainly be on board with that.

But... I’d switch R1 & R2.

[Born2Steel]

I could certainly be on board with that.

But... I’d switch R1 & R2.

4 of 6 picks at LB. That's just sad.

[Born2Steel]

New format, new info, changing needs. 2nd attempt of 2018.

Rd1. Derwin James, Safety FSU
Rd2. Ronald Jones II, RB USC
Rd3. Josey Jewell, ILB Iowa
Rd5a. Justin Lawler, OLB SMU
Rd5b. Kenny Young, ILB UCLA
Rd7a. Hercules Mata'afa, OLB WSU
Rd7b. Allen Lazard, WR ISU

[teegre]

New format, new info, changing needs. 2nd attempt of 2018.

Rd1. Derwin James, Safety FSU
Rd2. Ronald Jones II, RB USC
Rd3. Josey Jewell, ILB Iowa

1) Do you foresee Derwin James sliding? I could maybe see that, because he’s gone from a top 5 pick, to a top 10 pick, to a mid-teens pick... With three months to go, I guess that anything is possible.

2) Don’t be surprised if Jones isn’t the second RB drafted (late-teens). It’s been Barkley, followed by Guice for so long, that everyone just assumes that it will stay that way. But, I could see Jones leap-frogging Guice (that’s not a slight about Guice but rather a confirmation about Jones.)

3) Good pick. :nod:

[Born2Steel]

1) Do you foresee Derwin James sliding? I could maybe see that, because he’s gone from a top 5 pick, to a top 10 pick, to a mid-teens pick... With three months to go, I guess that anything is possible.

2) Don’t be surprised if Jones isn’t the second RB drafted (late-teens). It’s been Barkley, followed by Guice for so long, that everyone just assumes that it will stay that way. But, I could see Jones leap-frogging Guice (that’s not a slight about Guice but rather a confirmation about Jones.)

3) Good pick. :nod:

Derwin James is a mystery guy, a lot like Peppers was last year. Not really a true fit for any defense. My thinking is that we need help at so many places in the middle of that defense, and he's such a great athlete, he fits us like a glove this draft. So, a lot of hope in that pick.

LOL. I honestly have no idea yet. With Love opting to return to school, Jones definitely gets a boost in the rankings. Hopefully we will keep Bell and it won't matter as much.

Jewell could very well be gone here too. But if Bell stays, we may get our ILB in the 2nd round anyway.(Darius Leonard?) If that happens, I also like Royce Freeman at RB, and Ade Aruna at OLB. Freeman looks like another Bettis to me, and Aruna may be the sleepiest sleeper in this draft. I saw him play a couple times and Aruna has elite take-off on the edge.

[st33lersguy]

1:28 Rashaan Evans LB Alabama
2:28 Justin Reid FS Stanford
3:28 Uchenna Nwosu LB USC
5:9 Josh Adams RB Notre Dame
5:28 Jaylon Ferguson EDGE Louisiana Tech
7:28 John Wolford QB Wake Forest

Evans and Reid rounds 1 and 2 would be a dream 1st 2 rounds and Josh Adams in round 5 could be a steal

[teegre]

Derwin James is a mystery guy, a lot like Peppers was last year. Not really a true fit for any defense. My thinking is that we need help at so many places in the middle of that defense, and he's such a great athlete, he fits us like a glove this draft. So, a lot of hope in that pick.

LOL. I honestly have no idea yet. With Love opting to return to school, Jones definitely gets a boost in the rankings. Hopefully we will keep Bell and it won't matter as much.

Jewell could very well be gone here too. But if Bell stays, we may get our ILB in the 2nd round anyway.(Darius Leonard?) If that happens, I also like Royce Freeman at RB, and Ade Aruna at OLB. Freeman looks like another Bettis to me, and Aruna may be the sleepiest sleeper in this draft. I saw him play a couple times and Aruna has elite take-off on the edge.

Re-sign Bell.
Draft Derwin James.

Done.

Now... which ILB shall we choose at 60? :wink02:

[Born2Steel]

Re-sign Bell.
Draft Derwin James.

Done.

Now... which ILB shall we choose at 60? :wink02:

There are a few I like for the 2nd round. Since I don't think Shazier will be back on the field, I look for someone of his style more. I like Jerome Baker, another Ohio State guy, and Christian Sam of Arizona State, and Josey Jewell of Iowa. I think any of those guys could play next to VW.

[teegre]

1:28 Rashaan Evans LB Alabama
2:28 Justin Reid FS Stanford
3:28 Uchenna Nwosu LB USC
5:9 Josh Adams RB Notre Dame
5:28 Jaylon Ferguson EDGE Louisiana Tech
7:28 John Wolford QB Wake Forest

Evans and Reid rounds 1 and 2 would be a dream 1st 2 rounds and Josh Adams in round 5 could be a steal

I’d love 1,2,3... I especially like the Nwosu pick. A very underrated player.

That said, I think Reid is the third best safety in this draft, and thus, he’ll be gone by 60. (Heck, he could be gone by 28.)

[st33lersguy]

I’d love 1,2,3... I especially like the Nwosu pick. A very underrated player.

That said, I think Reid is the third best safety in this draft, and thus, he’ll be gone by 60. (Heck, he could be gone by 28.)

Probably, this was a walkthemock simulation and Reid was there at 60 so I had to take him

[teegre]

There are a few I like for the 2nd round. Since I don't think Shazier will be back on the field, I look for someone of his style more. I like Jerome Baker, another Ohio State guy, and Christian Sam of Arizona State, and Josey Jewell of Iowa. I think any of those guys could play next to VW.

What about Derwin James at ILB???... (a la Deone Bucannon)

[Born2Steel]

What about Derwin James at ILB???... (a la Deone Bucannon)

OK, I'm fine with that. But like you posted in another thread, either Mitchell or Haden gets re-signed, the other is gone. As bad as the safety group would become minus Mitchell, Haden improves the CB group more. With that in mind, and James weighing in at 215lbs, I'd play him at FS. At least until he can bulk up 10lbs minimum. Then I would move James to SS/ILB (a la Bucannon) and Davis(205lbs maybe?) to FS.

[Born2Steel]

Re-sign Bell.
Draft Derwin James.

Done.

Now... which ILB shall we choose at 60? :wink02:

Another question for these early round picks is which of this year's prospects match up with some of last year's prospects? Meaning, I think Derwin James is comparable to last draft's Jabrill Peppers, in that he has no true position on the defense, yet plays them all. This draft doesn't have that "WOW" factor when you immediately look at it. But there are some quality guys there. Who is the TJ Watt in this draft? Who is the Hassan Riddick? Or even who is this draft's Lawrence Timmons? This is really a cookie cutter class so far.

[Steelerette]

I'm more of the mind now to take the best Safety available in R1. If that happens to be Reid, I'm fine. If it happens to be a SS, then move Davis over. Either way, cut Mitchell, extend Haden.

[teegre]

Another question for these early round picks is which of this year's prospects match up with some of last year's prospects? Meaning, I think Derwin James is comparable to last draft's Jabrill Peppers, in that he has no true position on the defense, yet plays them all. This draft doesn't have that "WOW" factor when you immediately look at it. But there are some quality guys there. Who is the TJ Watt in this draft? Who is the Hassan Riddick? Or even who is this draft's Lawrence Timmons? This is really a cookie cutter class so far.

I think that there are five “top tier” ILBs in this draft, followed by a bunch of very good ILBs.

Whereas, there is one (maybe two) “top tier” safeties, and a huge group with R2 grades.

SUMMATION:
I’d go ILB first, and then S.

[Neversatisfied]

Inside Linebacker. With that said it's very worrisome to look at the Linebacker situation on this team especially after the numerous picks in the last 4-5 drafts, what does this team really have to show for it? Shazier (future uncertain) and Watt (looks promising).

[DesertSteel]

I'm curious: if they let Bell walk, how does that affect everyone's mock?

If Bell is gone, I'd go RB in the 2nd. If he's tagged, I'd go RB in the 4th and if he's signed, I'd go RB in the 7th. I like Guice or Chubb in R2.

[Born2Steel]

I'm curious: if they let Bell walk, how does that affect everyone's mock?

If Bell is gone, I'd go RB in the 2nd. If he's tagged, I'd go RB in the 4th and if he's signed, I'd go RB in the 7th. I like Guice or Chubb in R2.

Any way it goes, at 28 I'm looking for that game changer athlete. If that happens to be Ronald Jones, I would take him there. I'm hoping it's Derwin James or Tremaine Edmunds. Any love for Royce Freeman in the 2nd or 3rd rounds?

[st33lersguy]

I'm curious: if they let Bell walk, how does that affect everyone's mock?

If Bell is gone, I'd go RB in the 2nd. If he's tagged, I'd go RB in the 4th and if he's signed, I'd go RB in the 7th. I like Guice or Chubb in R2.

3rd round at the earliest, especially considering the draft class is deep. RBs are a dime a dozen, S, ILB, and OLB are much more pressing and provide much more value

[LLT]

Round 1
Rashaan Evans, ILB, Alabama, Height: 6'3. Weight: 231.
Evans keep showing up on mock drafts as the Steelers first pick and for good reason. Shazier will probably never play another down of football and Williams is a wave player that could be upgraded.


Round 2
Sony Michel, RB, Georgia, Height: 5'11. Weight: 212.
Solid runner, good receiver, and can block. Played behind Nick Chubb at Georgia and still had a 7.9 yard average with 1,227 yards and 16 touchdowns. Bell is about to talk his way out of Pittsburgh and let's be honest...With the NFL being a passing league, I can think of better place to lay 50 million dollars...like on the defensive side of the ball.


Round 3
Kyzir White, S, West Virginia, Height: 6'2. Weight: 218
In 2017 White had three interceptions, four passes broken up, 94 tackles, two forced fumbles, and one sack. More than any other position in football...early draft picks at the safety position do not always equate to value. White has the potential to be a day one starter and is DEFINATELY an upgrade over Mitchell.


Round 5
Ja'Von Rolland-Jones, OLB/DE, Arkansas State, Height: 6'2. Weight: 244.
Try-hard competitor with 26.5 sacks over the last two years. Add 40.5 tackles for loss and 4 forced fumbles over that time period. Dupree isn't going anywhere, (at least for this next year) so a fifth round flyer on Rolland-Jones is good value.


Round 5
Michael Joseph, CB Dubuque, Height 6'1, Weight 190.
D-3 prospect and Senior Bowl invite who racked up 56 tackles, 8 interceptions, 8 pass breakups and 16 passes defended this last year. if you think he isn't worth a shot in the 5th round...well...31 out of 32 NFL teams have sent scouts to look at him.


Round 7
Brendan Mahon, OG/OT, Penn State, Height: 6'4. Weight: 315.
Local kid who played a lot of tackle but would be an offensive guard for the Steelers. Good run blocker but will need a season or two to mature as a pass protector. Move to the inside should help


Round 7
Richie James, WR, Middle Tennessee, Height: 5'9. Weight: 180.
Diminutive but productive receiver who could make Rogers expendable. Missing 7 games last year has dropped him on most draft boards... but if you do your homework you can see that previously, over a two year span, he had 213 catches, 2,971 yards, and 20 TD's

[teegre]

@LLT
I love the Kyzir White pick. But, do you think he’ll still be there in R3. He had a great Senior Bowl week, which raised his draft stick...

[LLT]

@LLT
I love the Kyzir White pick. But, do you think he’ll still be there in R3. He had a great Senior Bowl week, which raised his draft stick...

I still have him as a 3rd round grade...but you are right...he may be gone. Also...the combine will totally mess up the existing grades.

[Mojouw]

My latest mock from walkthemock.com for PIT via Default ranking

1:28 - LB Tremaine Edmunds, Virginia Tech
2:28 - EDGE Hercules Mata'afa, Washington St.
3:28 - FS Justin Reid, Stanford
5:11 - CB Adonis Alexander, Virginia Tech
5:28 - LB Christian Sam, Arizona St.
7:28 - WR Cedric Wilson, Boise St.

The rankings are a bit all over the map to say the least. Also I do not honestly think the Steelers will go an entire draft with only one pick on offense.

But seriously, look at that! I mean I know there are questions about all of those guys, but still. If I was Butler and this was the actual end of the draft, I would do cartwheels.

[teegre]

My latest mock from walkthemock.com for PIT via Default ranking

1:28 - LB Tremaine Edmunds, Virginia Tech
2:28 - EDGE Hercules Mata'afa, Washington St.
3:28 - FS Justin Reid, Stanford
5:11 - CB Adonis Alexander, Virginia Tech
5:28 - LB Christian Sam, Arizona St.
7:28 - WR Cedric Wilson, Boise St.

The rankings are a bit all over the map to say the least. Also I do not honestly think the Steelers will go an entire draft with only one pick on offense.

But seriously, look at that! I mean I know there are questions about all of those guys, but still. If I was Butler and this was the actual end of the draft, I would do cartwheels.

Tremaine Edmunds at 28 is a steal.

Justin Reid in R3 is grand larceny.

[Mojouw]

Tremaine Edmunds at 28 is a steal.

Justin Reid in R3 is grand larceny.

Yeah. I liked that sim last year but I think their rankings are a bit off right now. I'm sure once combine and pro day data gets compiled it will shift.

[Shoes]

You guys can get pissed all you want. If Goedert is there in R2 I'm taking him! :chuckle:


Round 1 Pick 28: Tremaine Edmunds (https://www.google.com/search?q=Tremaine+Edmunds+Virginia+Tech+NFL+Draft+ Profile), OLB, Virginia Tech (A-)
Round 2 Pick 28: Dallas Goedert (https://www.google.com/search?q=Dallas+Goedert+South+Dakota+State+NFL+Dra ft+Profile), TE, South Dakota State (A+)
Round 3 Pick 28: Donte Jackson (https://www.google.com/search?q=Donte+Jackson+LSU+NFL+Draft+Profile), CB, LSU (A+)
Round 5 Pick 11: Christian Sam (https://www.google.com/search?q=Christian+Sam+Arizona+State+NFL+Draft+Pro file), ILB, Arizona State (A-)
Round 5 Pick 28: Terrell Edmunds (https://www.google.com/search?q=Terrell+Edmunds+Virginia+Tech+NFL+Draft+P rofile), SS, Virginia Tech (A)
Round 7 Pick 28: DaeSean Hamilton (https://www.google.com/search?q=DaeSean+Hamilton+Penn+State+NFL+Draft+Pro file), WR, Penn State (A)

[teegre]

You guys can get pissed all you want. If Goedert is there in R2 I'm taking him! :chuckle:


Round 1 Pick 28: Tremaine Edmunds (https://www.google.com/search?q=Tremaine+Edmunds+Virginia+Tech+NFL+Draft+ Profile), OLB, Virginia Tech (A-)
Round 2 Pick 28: Dallas Goedert (https://www.google.com/search?q=Dallas+Goedert+South+Dakota+State+NFL+Dra ft+Profile), TE, South Dakota State (A+)
Round 3 Pick 28: Donte Jackson (https://www.google.com/search?q=Donte+Jackson+LSU+NFL+Draft+Profile), CB, LSU (A+)
Round 5 Pick 11: Christian Sam (https://www.google.com/search?q=Christian+Sam+Arizona+State+NFL+Draft+Pro file), ILB, Arizona State (A-)
Round 5 Pick 28: Terrell Edmunds (https://www.google.com/search?q=Terrell+Edmunds+Virginia+Tech+NFL+Draft+P rofile), SS, Virginia Tech (A)
Round 7 Pick 28: DaeSean Hamilton (https://www.google.com/search?q=DaeSean+Hamilton+Penn+State+NFL+Draft+Pro file), WR, Penn State (A)

STEAL!!!!!

Seriously, those settings are so far off.

Tremaine Edmunds is a top 15 pick, and his brother is easily a R2 pick. Jackson is mocked by many to go at around 31 (to the Taperiots).

If Goedert is there in R2, I’d had zero problem with drafting him (over a safety/linebacker). :nod:

[Born2Steel]

STEAL!!!!!

Seriously, those settings are so far off.

Tremaine Edmunds is a top 15 pick, and his brother is easily a R2 pick. Jackson is mocked by many to go at around 31 (to the Taperiots).

If Goedert is there in R2, I’d had zero problem with drafting him (over a safety/linebacker). :nod:

I don't know. I just don't think a TE hits the radar this draft. IMO, JJ improved and McDonald played better than hoped for. I really think this entire draft, for the Steelers, revolves around who is there when we pick at 28. So much of the rest depends on that pick. Moreso than in years past. Example, if we were able to get Tremaine Edmunds, I believe he would give us such a boost in the middle that we could consider more options in round 2, even RB or TE. But if we are made to reach for a player that doesn't have that high grade (another Burns pick), then maybe we look to double dip to improve the chance of success. Just my thoughts.

And yes, I do understand it's 'mock drafting', so no, I'm not debating, just discussing. I'm starting to believe I must have a very argumentative tone on here. I don't mean to.

[Mojouw]

STEAL!!!!!

Seriously, those settings are so far off.

Tremaine Edmunds is a top 15 pick, and his brother is easily a R2 pick. Jackson is mocked by many to go at around 31 (to the Taperiots).

If Goedert is there in R2, I’d had zero problem with drafting him (over a safety/linebacker). :nod:

There seems, right now, to be a WILD range of rankings of guys. Every write-up I see is high on Reid from Stanford and every mock draft simulation site has him ranked in the 5th round or so. Honestly, I think the safety class is going to be ranked very differently by a lot of people. Many are going to rank down any prospect with the words "in the box", "downhill", or "ss" attached to their name.

[Shoes]

STEAL!!!!!

Seriously, those settings are so far off.

Tremaine Edmunds is a top 15 pick, and his brother is easily a R2 pick. Jackson is mocked by many to go at around 31 (to the Taperiots).

If Goedert is there in R2, I’d had zero problem with drafting him (over a safety/linebacker). :nod:

They are indeed and some way more than others.

[teegre]

I don't know. I just don't think a TE hits the radar this draft. IMO, JJ improved and McDonald played better than hoped for. I really think this entire draft, for the Steelers, revolves around who is there when we pick at 28. So much of the rest depends on that pick. Moreso than in years past. Example, if we were able to get Tremaine Edmunds, I believe he would give us such a boost in the middle that we could consider more options in round 2, even RB or TE. But if we are made to reach for a player that doesn't have that high grade (another Burns pick), then maybe we look to double dip to improve the chance of success. Just my thoughts.

And yes, I do understand it's 'mock drafting', so no, I'm not debating, just discussing. I'm starting to believe I must have a very argumentative tone on here. I don't mean to.

From what I’m reading & hearing, Goedert has been compared to Gronk and to Gates. He is likely going to be a the best TE in this draft... and I’m thinking he goes late R1/early R2. If we are drafting BPA, then Goedert at 58 is an outstanding value (although, not necessarily a glaring need).

[Born2Steel]

From what I’m reading & hearing, Goedert has been compared to Gronk and to Gates. He is likely going to be a the best TE in this draft... and I’m thinking he goes late R1/early R2. If we are drafting BPA, then Goedert at 58 is an outstanding value (although, not necessarily a glaring need).

I am a believer in the BPA technique in the first round. I think that is where you get the game changers. I don't think there is another Shazier in this draft, even if we were selecting number one overall. So by that logic, I can forego taking an ILB at 28, or even in the 2nd depending on how the picks are falling. That said, I will be shocked if there is no ILB selected in either round.

If pick 28 comes around and still on the board are Goedert, Tremaine Edmunds, and Derwin James, who's your pick?

[Shoes]

I am a believer in the BPA technique in the first round. I think that is where you get the game changers. I don't think there is another Shazier in this draft, even if we were selecting number one overall. So by that logic, I can forego taking an ILB at 28, or even in the 2nd depending on how the picks are falling. That said, I will be shocked if there is no ILB selected in either round.

If pick 28 comes around and still on the board are Goedert, Tremaine Edmunds, and Derwin James, who's your pick?

As much as I want a TE & Edge/ILB I'd go with James. This Kid is going to be really special and he has the leadership skills the defense is lacking, they need a fiery leader. Heck you put some weight on him with his size he could double as an ILB/Edge rusher. :chuckle:

[teegre]

If pick 28 comes around and still on the board are Goedert, Tremaine Edmunds, and Derwin James, who's your pick?

Edmunds or James

You can’t go wrong with Florida St. DBs. But, Edmunds is a freak. Gun to my head... Edmunds.

(Goedert at 60 is a steal; Goedert at 28 is a reach.) b

[Shoes]

What do you guys think of Marcus Davenport?

[BlackAndGold]

My 5 round mock draft

1. Rashaan Evan, ILB, Alabama (Have to replace Shazier, may need some luck for him to fall to #28)
2. Jessie Bates, S, Wake Forrest (still learning about this guy but he's getting some hype. Here's a post by Daniel Jeremiah on his Instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/BfDOJghlxm0/?hl=en&taken-by=movethesticks
3. Deon Cain, WR, Clemson (AB, JuJu, Bryant....then who?)
5. Skai Moore, ILB, South Carolina (Tweener LB who has very good coverage skills. Could makes a very good dimebacker)
5. Marquis Haynes, OLB, Ole Miss (athletic player that needs to get bigger and work on his pass rushing skills. May go go in round 4 if he tests well)

[LLT]

Not sure if its been discussed yet or not....But I am becoming more and more confident that we will draft a DL in the first three rounds. We play 4-3 to such an extent that it warrants another athletic big-body in the middle...and lets be honest...our push up front was terrible this last year. It really IS a priority.

Also thinking we may double up on ILB. Shazier is never going to play another down and Williams isn't a starter on most teams in the league.

I'm almost thinking ILB in the first, with DL and Safety being addressed early. Latter part of the draft should bring us a project ILB...a WR...and possibly an offensive lineman and CB.

[SteelMember]

What do you guys think of Marcus Davenport?

Good player, but probably a 4-3 DE... so unless we're changing something. :wink02:

Probably a top 15 pick anyway.

[SteelMember]

Not sure if its been discussed yet or not....But I am becoming more and more confident that we will draft a DL in the first three rounds. We play 4-3 to such an extent that it warrants another athletic big-body in the middle...and lets be honest...our push up front was terrible this last year. It really IS a priority.

If we do, and we very well could, I'd think we go more in the mold of our classic picks at DE... 6-4" @ 290

[st33lersguy]

Latest mock draft simulation, this one from fanspeak (Had it down that the Steelers got a 7th, not a 6th from the Giants)

28: R1P28 LB RASHAAN EVANS ALABAMA
60: R2P28 TE DALLAS GOEDERT SOUTH DAKOTA STATE
92: R3P28 S ARMANI WATTS TEXAS A&M
150: R5P11 EDGE DUKE EJIOFOR WAKE FOREST
167: R5P28 LB JACK CICHY WISCONSIN
220: R7P2 RB AKRUM WADLEY IOWA
246: R7P28 WR QUADREE HENDERSON PITTSBURGH

[SteelMember]

What if... :scratchchin:

28. Pittsburgh Steelers: Ronnie Harrison, S, Alabama

The Steelers could use a strong safety to pair with Sean Davis.

In 2017, Harrison totaled 74 tackles with three interceptions, 2.5 sacks and four passes batted. He played really well as an enforcer in the middle of the field. Aside from coverage issues, Harrison had a quality 2016 season as the strong safety when he totaled 86 tackles with seven passes broken up and two interceptions.

Harrison (6-3, 216) is a tough run defender who has the athletic skills to cover, but he has issues covering receivers in man coverage. Team sources have said an example of that is Clemson's Hunter Renfrow really abusing Harrison in the past, and that is why Minkah Fitzpatrick served as the coverage safety for the Crimson Tide. Playing zone in the middle of the field is a better fit for Harrison. Because of some coverage limitations, Harrison is a strong safety type for the NFL.



Read more: http://walterfootball.com/draft2018charlie_1.php#ixzz57gNRRmEJ

[st33lersguy]

What if... :scratchchin:

28. Pittsburgh Steelers: Ronnie Harrison, S, Alabama

The Steelers could use a strong safety to pair with Sean Davis.

In 2017, Harrison totaled 74 tackles with three interceptions, 2.5 sacks and four passes batted. He played really well as an enforcer in the middle of the field. Aside from coverage issues, Harrison had a quality 2016 season as the strong safety when he totaled 86 tackles with seven passes broken up and two interceptions.

Harrison (6-3, 216) is a tough run defender who has the athletic skills to cover, but he has issues covering receivers in man coverage. Team sources have said an example of that is Clemson's Hunter Renfrow really abusing Harrison in the past, and that is why Minkah Fitzpatrick served as the coverage safety for the Crimson Tide. Playing zone in the middle of the field is a better fit for Harrison. Because of some coverage limitations, Harrison is a strong safety type for the NFL.



Read more: http://walterfootball.com/draft2018charlie_1.php#ixzz57gNRRmEJ


Pass.
Steelers need a deep center fielder, a safety that can actually cover people. I read through his nfl.com draft profile and it felt like I was reading about Mike Mitchell at times

[Six Rings]

1. Justin Reid FS Stanford
2. Dorance Armstrong OLB Kansas
3. Mason Rudolph QB OK State
5. Antonio Callaway WR Florida
5. Ralph Webb RB Vandy
7. Will Gleeson P Ole Miss
7. Mavin Saunders TE FSU

(assuming the conditional for Cockrell will be a 7th)

Reid is more of a 2nd round type of talent.

I like Rudolph a lot and would take him in round three.

If you want to pick punter, take the Texas or Alabama guy.

[Born2Steel]

Gonna make some heads itch.

R1. Anthony Miller WR
R2. Dallas Goedert TE
R3. Royce Freeman RB
R5a. Kurt Benkert QB
R5b. Damon Webb Safety
R7a. Kenny Young LB
R7b. Genard Avery LB

[Born2Steel]

Now breathe easier.

R1. Harold Landry Edge - Most pro ready pass rusher in this draft, IMO.
R2. Leighton Vander Esch ILB - Best of the rest.
R3. Mike Hughes CB - Very under-rated CB. Steal in the 3rd, IMO.
R5a. Bo Scarbrough RB - Between the tackles hard ass runner.
R5b. Allen Lazard WR - Big tall WR/TE for the NFL.
R6. Ade Aruna OLB - Solid player. Can also backup at DE. True edge guy.
R7a. Evan Berry Safety(Kick return specialist) - Not much to see as a safety due to injury. KR specialist and backup safety.
R7b. Antonio Callaway WR - Late enough to take a chance on a high risk/high reward WR. 1st round talent if he can stay on the field.

[teegre]

Gonna make some heads itch.

R1. Anthony Miller WR
R2. Dallas Goedert TE
R3. Royce Freeman RB
R5a. Kurt Benkert QB
R5b. Damon Webb Safety
R7a. Kenny Young LB
R7b. Genard Avery LB

If 3 and 5a were ILB/S (S/ILB), I might actually be fine with this.

It’s the 80/20 principle: focus on your strengths (as opposed to trying to correct your weaknesses).

The offebse would legitimately score 35+ per game. As long as the defense could hold teams to 30...

- - - Updated - - -


Now breathe easier.

R1. Harold Landry Edge - Most pro ready pass rusher in this draft, IMO.
R2. Leighton Vander Esch ILB - Best of the rest.
R3. Mike Hughes CB - Very under-rated CB. Steal in the 3rd, IMO.
R5a. Bo Scarbrough RB - Between the tackles hard ass runner.
R5b. Allen Lazard WR - Big tall WR/TE for the NFL.
R6. Ade Aruna OLB - Solid player. Can also backup at DE. True edge guy.
R7a. Evan Berry Safety(Kick return specialist) - Not much to see as a safety due to injury. KR specialist and backup safety.
R7b. Antonio Callaway WR - Late enough to take a chance on a high risk/high reward WR. 1st round talent if he can stay on the field.

I don’t see LVE making it to 60. And, some mocks have Mike Hughes going in the top 10... not that they’re right, but I doubt that they’d be off by 70+ spots.

Lazard!!! Yes to that!!!!!

[Born2Steel]

If 3 and 5a were ILB/S (S/ILB), I might actually be fine with this.

It’s the 80/20 principle: focus on your strengths (as opposed to trying to correct your weaknesses).

The offebse would legitimately score 35+ per game. As long as the defense could hold teams to 30...

- - - Updated - - -



I don’t see LVE making it to 60. And, some mocks have Mike Hughes going in the top 10... not that they’re right, but I doubt that they’d be off by 70+ spots.

Lazard!!! Yes to that!!!!!

Really, Hughes in the top 10? I had not heard that. LVE's combine numbers will make a huge impact this week. Plus, no way we would ever draft Callaway, but if he were actually there that late....we took Holliman after all. I also have 3 possible KRs in that mock.

[teegre]

Really, Hughes in the top 10?

A few have him that high, most have him in the teens, and the rest have him going in the 20’s.

[Mojouw]

Ok. So played around on FirstPick.com on the assumption that some team will want to come up into the end of the 1st round for a QB or a pass rusher. A trade out into the early 2nd round ends up with this:

Round 2 Pick 5 (NYJ): Vander Esch, Leighton (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Vander+Esch,+Leighton+Boise+State+NFL+Dr aft+Profile), OLB/ILB, Boise State (ILB of the future)
Round 2 Pick 28: Allen, Marcus (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Allen,+Marcus+Penn+State+NFL+Draft+Profi le), FS, Penn State (PLug and play safety)
Round 3 Pick 8 (NYJ): Guice, Derrius (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Guice,+Derrius+LSU+NFL+Draft+Profile), RB, LSU (Let's just get some unquestioned L Bell and Conner insurance. If Guice gets healthy he is Marshawn Lynch right when Bell starts breaking down)
Round 3 Pick 28: Carter, Lorenzo (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Carter,+Lorenzo+Georgia+NFL+Draft+Profil e), OLB, Georgia (Outside. Inside. I don't care. Take another high end athlete for the LB level and figure out the fit on the fly)
Round 5 Pick 11: Fumagalli, Troy (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Fumagalli,+Troy+Wisconsin+NFL+Draft+Prof ile), TE, Wisconsin (Because even with a healthy McDonald, no one really believes in the current TE group. The inverse Jesse James. I know he can block, not sure he is much in the pass game at the NFL level. Matt Spaeth at worst?)
Round 5 Pick 28: Ateman, Marcell (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Ateman,+Marcell+Oklahoma+State+NFL+Draft +Profile), WR, Oklahoma State (Keep the WR pipeline running)
Round 7 Pick 2: J Hall, P (https://www.google.com/search?q=+J+Hall,+P+Sam+Houston+State+NFL+Draft+Pr ofile), DT, Sam Houston State (Big Guy for the middle with some nimbleness.)
Round 7 Pick 28: Ogundeko, Ebenezer (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Ogundeko,+Ebenezer+Tennessee+State+NFL+D raft+Profile), DE/OLB, Tennessee State (Lottery ticket. If his head is together and he can put in the work, get a pass rush specialist. If he is a terminal knucklehead, then at this point -- who cares?)

If it could go down like this, I really like the idea of trading back. The only real drawback with it is how folks see the following guys:

1. Evans at LB
2. Key at pass rusher
3. Harrison at safety

Trade back means you almost surely pass on these guys and lose out on Reid as well.

[teegre]

Ok. So played around on FirstPick.com on the assumption that some team will want to come up into the end of the 1st round for a QB or a pass rusher. A trade out into the early 2nd round ends up with this:

Round 2 Pick 5 (NYJ): Vander Esch, Leighton (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Vander+Esch,+Leighton+Boise+State+NFL+Dr aft+Profile), OLB/ILB, Boise State (ILB of the future)
Round 2 Pick 28: Allen, Marcus (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Allen,+Marcus+Penn+State+NFL+Draft+Profi le), FS, Penn State (PLug and play safety)
Round 3 Pick 8 (NYJ): Guice, Derrius (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Guice,+Derrius+LSU+NFL+Draft+Profile), RB, LSU (Let's just get some unquestioned L Bell and Conner insurance. If Guice gets healthy he is Marshawn Lynch right when Bell starts breaking down)
Round 3 Pick 28: Carter, Lorenzo (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Carter,+Lorenzo+Georgia+NFL+Draft+Profil e), OLB, Georgia (Outside. Inside. I don't care. Take another high end athlete for the LB level and figure out the fit on the fly)
Round 5 Pick 11: Fumagalli, Troy (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Fumagalli,+Troy+Wisconsin+NFL+Draft+Prof ile), TE, Wisconsin (Because even with a healthy McDonald, no one really believes in the current TE group. The inverse Jesse James. I know he can block, not sure he is much in the pass game at the NFL level. Matt Spaeth at worst?)
Round 5 Pick 28: Ateman, Marcell (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Ateman,+Marcell+Oklahoma+State+NFL+Draft +Profile), WR, Oklahoma State (Keep the WR pipeline running)
Round 7 Pick 2: J Hall, P (https://www.google.com/search?q=+J+Hall,+P+Sam+Houston+State+NFL+Draft+Pr ofile), DT, Sam Houston State (Big Guy for the middle with some nimbleness.)
Round 7 Pick 28: Ogundeko, Ebenezer (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Ogundeko,+Ebenezer+Tennessee+State+NFL+D raft+Profile), DE/OLB, Tennessee State (Lottery ticket. If his head is together and he can put in the work, get a pass rush specialist. If he is a terminal knucklehead, then at this point -- who cares?)

If it could go down like this, I really like the idea of trading back. The only real drawback with it is how folks see the following guys:

1. Evans at LB
2. Key at pass rusher
3. Harrison at safety

Trade back means you almost surely pass on these guys and lose out on Reid as well.

I love this idea... but, the Steelers seem to just stand pat.

The year that that we drafted Burns, there were offers like this... but, Colbert got his guy.

Oh... Guice in R3 would be the biggest steal since AB in R6. (These sites don’t seem to have any realistic and/or consistent rankings.)

[Mojouw]

I love this idea... but, the Steelers seem to just stand pat.

The year that that we drafted Burns, there were offers like this... but, Colbert got his guy.

Oh... Guice in R3 would be the biggest steal since AB in R6. (These sites don’t seem to have any realistic and/or consistent rankings.)

Yeah the rankings are all over the place. I suspect the next 2-3 weeks will bring almost ever ranking place into alignment.

Unless I'm picking in the top 10-12, I'm a huge fan of the trade back. But you're right, Colbert is not -- so it won't happen.

[Shoes]

Round 1 Pick 28: Allen, Josh (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Allen,+Josh+Wyoming+NFL+Draft+Profile), QB, Wyoming (A+)
Round 2 Pick 28: Reid, Justin (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Reid,+Justin+Stanford+NFL+Draft+Profile) , FS, Stanford (A)
Round 3 Pick 28: Holland, Jeff (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Holland,+Jeff+Auburn+NFL+Draft+Profile), OLB, Auburn (A)
Round 5 Pick 11: Wilson, Cedrick (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Wilson,+Cedrick+Boise+State+NFL+Draft+Pr ofile), WR, Boise State (A)
Round 5 Pick 28: Cichy, Jack (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Cichy,+Jack+Wisconsin+NFL+Draft+Profile) , ILB/OLB, Wisconsin (B+)
Round 7 Pick 2: J Hall, P (https://www.google.com/search?q=+J+Hall,+P+Sam+Houston+State+NFL+Draft+Pr ofile), DT, Sam Houston State (A+)
Round 7 Pick 28: King, Jamarcus (https://www.google.com/search?q=+King,+Jamarcus+South+Carolina+NFL+Draft+ Profile), CB, South Carolina (A)

[Born2Steel]

Round 1 Pick 28: Allen, Josh (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Allen,+Josh+Wyoming+NFL+Draft+Profile), QB, Wyoming (A+)
Round 2 Pick 28: Reid, Justin (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Reid,+Justin+Stanford+NFL+Draft+Profile) , FS, Stanford (A)
Round 3 Pick 28: Holland, Jeff (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Holland,+Jeff+Auburn+NFL+Draft+Profile), OLB, Auburn (A)
Round 5 Pick 11: Wilson, Cedrick (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Wilson,+Cedrick+Boise+State+NFL+Draft+Pr ofile), WR, Boise State (A)
Round 5 Pick 28: Cichy, Jack (https://www.google.com/search?q=+Cichy,+Jack+Wisconsin+NFL+Draft+Profile) , ILB/OLB, Wisconsin (B+)
Round 7 Pick 2: J Hall, P (https://www.google.com/search?q=+J+Hall,+P+Sam+Houston+State+NFL+Draft+Pr ofile), DT, Sam Houston State (A+)
Round 7 Pick 28: King, Jamarcus (https://www.google.com/search?q=+King,+Jamarcus+South+Carolina+NFL+Draft+ Profile), CB, South Carolina (A)

This is a pretty strong draft. I could definitely live with this.

[Six Rings]

1 ) ILB Vander Esch
2 ) Safety Reid
3 ) Running Back Penny
5) Offensive Tackle Cappa
5 ) Punter Dickson
7 ) NT/DT Richardson
7 ) S/Special teams. Apke

[LLT]

1: ILB RASHAAN EVANS , ALABAMA
2: S KYZIR WHITE, WEST VIRGINIA
3: RB RASHAAD PENNY , SAN DIEGO STATE
5a: OLB LEON JACOBS,WISCONSIN
5b: WR RICHIE JAMES , MIDDLE TENNESSEE
7a: CB MICHAEL JOSEPH, DUBUQUE
7b: DL JOSHUA FRAZIER , ALABAMA


Still believe that ILB is the priority....and that we will sign a FA offensive lineman before the draft.

[BlackAndGold]

1. Jessie Bates, FS, Wake Forest (True center fielder, will play on 3rd downs when the defense goes subpackage and Burnnet goes into the box as a LB)
2. James Washington, WR, Oklahoma State (Deep threat WR. Bryant is a FA next season, James will be his replacement)
3. Genard Avery, ILB, Memphis (A good athlete with upside as an off ball LB)
5. Allen Lazard, WR, Iowa State (6'5" red zone target with good hands)
5. Troy Fumagalli, TE, Wisconsin (Prototypical blocking TE that will bring depth to the position)
7. ​Joshua Frazier, NT, Alabama (A project that can battle Big Dan for the back up NT job, also Dunbar knows him)
7. Curtis Cothran, DE, Penn State (Another project defensive lineman with some solid measurables)


**I had Mason Rudolph as my #1 pick, just not ready for that to be the case lol

[Texasteel]

Actually like this one a little better than your first mock LLT. Then again I like any draft that puts Evans in a Steeler uniform.


1: ILB RASHAAN EVANS , ALABAMA
2: S KYZIR WHITE, WEST VIRGINIA
3: RB RASHAAD PENNY , SAN DIEGO STATE
5a: OLB LEON JACOBS,WISCONSIN
5b: WR RICHIE JAMES , MIDDLE TENNESSEE
7a: CB MICHAEL JOSEPH, DUBUQUE
7b: DL JOSHUA FRAZIER , ALABAMA

[Mojouw]

1. Jessie Bates, FS, Wake Forest (True center fielder, will play on 3rd downs when the defense goes subpackage and Burnnet goes into the box as a LB)
2. James Washington, WR, Oklahoma State (Deep threat WR. Bryant is a FA next season, James will be his replacement)
3. Genard Avery, ILB, Memphis (A good athlete with upside as an off ball LB)
5. Allen Lazard, WR, Iowa State (6'5" red zone target with good hands)
5. Troy Fumagalli, TE, Wisconsin (Prototypical blocking TE that will bring depth to the position)
7. ​Joshua Frazier, NT, Alabama (A project that can battle Big Dan for the back up NT job, also Dunbar knows him)
7. Curtis Cothran, DE, Penn State (Another project defensive lineman with some solid measurables)


**I had Mason Rudolph as my #1 pick, just not ready for that to be the case lol

I think you can draft Bates almost two full rounds later based on what I am seeing in most projection systems. Other than that, I like it!!

[Mojouw]

Variation on a theme:


28: R1P28

EDGE JOSH SWEAT
FLORIDA STATE



60: R2P28

LB DARIUS LEONARD
SOUTH CAROLINA STATE



92: R3P28
S TERRELL EDMUNDS
VIRGINIA TECH



148: R5P11
DL FOLORUNSO FATUKASI
CONNECTICUT



165: R5P28
TE TROY FUMAGALLI

WISCONSIN



220: R7P2
RB ITO SMITH
SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI



246: R7P28

WR CEDRICK WILSON
BOISE STATE



Sweat is potentially top 10 value at 28. But we have all heard that before - Bud Dupree. Leonard is a reach according to a ton of rankings at 2.28, but so were the remaining safeties and he wouldn't have been there in the third. Edmunds was the pick after Bates III went off the board two picks before. Not my favorite safety, but with the singing of Burnett, gambling on the crazy athletic guy is more possible. Whatever his name gets the team another DT style guy to add to the mix. Then we have the TE. Gamble on a small-school back to vastly outplay his draft slot. WR prospect.

[teegre]

Variation on a theme:


28: R1P28

EDGE JOSH SWEAT
FLORIDA STATE



60: R2P28

LB DARIUS LEONARD
SOUTH CAROLINA STATE



92: R3P28
S TERRELL EDMUNDS
VIRGINIA TECH



148: R5P11
DL FOLORUNSO FATUKASI
CONNECTICUT



165: R5P28
TE TROY FUMAGALLI

WISCONSIN



220: R7P2
RB ITO SMITH
SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI



246: R7P28

WR CEDRICK WILSON
BOISE STATE



Sweat is potentially top 10 value at 28. But we have all heard that before - Bud Dupree. Leonard is a reach according to a ton of rankings at 2.28, but so were the remaining safeties and he wouldn't have been there in the third. Edmunds was the pick after Bates III went off the board two picks before. Not my favorite safety, but with the singing of Burnett, gambling on the crazy athletic guy is more possible. Whatever his name gets the team another DT style guy to add to the mix. Then we have the TE. Gamble on a small-school back to vastly outplay his draft slot. WR prospect.

Very nice

Sweat: you nailed it

Leonard: I’d have zero problem with him at 60

Edmunds: he’s a SS/ILB tweeter. Maybe he’s (finally) the guy who can cover the opposing team’s TE.

[Dwinsgames]

Pick
Player
Pos
College


1:28
Ronnie Harrison
FS
Alabama


2:28
Darius Leonard
LB
South Carolina St.


3:28
Royce Freeman
RB
Oregon


5:11
Keke Coutee
WR
Texas Tech



5:28
Joe Giles-Harris
LB
Duke


7:2
Jaylon Ferguson
EDGE
Louisiana Tech


7:28
Matt Elam
NT
Kentucky

[Dwinsgames]

round 1 Pick 28: Landry, Harold, OLB/DE, Boston College
Round 2 Pick 28: Michel, Sony, RB, Georgia
Round 3 Pick 28: Leonard, Darius, OLB/ILB, South Carolina State
Round 5 Pick 11: Watts, Armani, FS, Texas AM
Round 5 Pick 28: Malone, KJ, OG, LSU
Round 7 Pick 2: Coutee, Keke, WR, Texas Tech
Round 7 Pick 28: Springs, Arrion, CB, Oregon

[Dwinsgames]

these sims .... what can I say other than yea ok as if one could walk away with this one LOL ( used fanspeak this time )


28: R1P28
LB RASHAAN EVANS
ALABAMA



60: R2P28
EDGE JOSH SWEAT
FLORIDA STATE



92: R3P28
LB DARIUS LEONARD
SOUTH CAROLINA STATE



148: R5P11
RB MARK WALTON
MIAMI



165: R5P28
RB BO SCARBROUGH
ALABAMA



220: R7P2
S GODWIN IGWEBUIKE
NORTHWESTERN



246: R7P28
QB LUKE FALK
WASHINGTON STAT

[Born2Steel]

RD1 - Roquan Smith ILB Ga
RD2 - Josh Sweat Edge FSU
RD3 - Bo Scarbrough RB Bama
RD5a - Ada Aruna Edge Tulane
RD5b - Allen Lazard WR Iowa State
RD7a - Josh Frazier DL Bama
RD7b - Cedric Wilson WR Boise State

[BlackAndGold]

I think you can draft Bates almost two full rounds later based on what I am seeing in most projection systems. Other than that, I like it!!

I don't believe most sites have caught on Bates rise.

Daniel Jeremiah has him ranked 30th in his top 50

Bates is a tall, lean safety for the Demon Deacons. He has outstanding range, instincts and ball skills from the deep middle and he flashed the ability to match up in the slot. He's a very fluid athlete and has plenty of makeup speed if he's caught out of position. Against the run, he's quick to key/read and fill the alley. He is a low, wrap/drag tackler and he does have some misses on tape. His lack of strength shows up at times. Overall, Bates is a very athletic middle-of-the-field defender and he has the versatility to cover in the slot. He should quickly emerge as a Pro Bowl-caliber player.

[Dwinsgames]

little different approach this time

our exit from the playoffs had a direct coloration with being gashed by the run ...

this aims to stop that we can get a S next year as Barnett can man the store for now




Pick
Player
Pos
College


1:28
Leighton Vander Esch
LB
Boise St.


2:28
Tim Settle
NT
Virginia Tech


3:28
Mark Walton
RB
Miami (FL)


5:11
Keke Coutee
WR
Texas Tech


5:28
Adonis Alexander
CB
Virginia Tech


7:2
Jaylon Ferguson
EDGE
Louisiana Tech


7:28
Brendan Mahon
G
Penn St.

[Mojouw]

I don't believe most sites have caught on Bates rise.

Daniel Jeremiah has him ranked 30th in his top 50

Didn't realize he was rising so fast up the latest draft boards.

I liked it better when he had a 4th round grade!

- - - Updated - - -


little different approach this time

our exit from the playoffs had a direct coloration with being gashed by the run ...

this aims to stop that we can get a S next year as Barnett can man the store for now




Pick
Player
Pos
College


1:28
Leighton Vander Esch
LB
Boise St.


2:28
Tim Settle
NT
Virginia Tech


3:28
Mark Walton
RB
Miami (FL)


5:11
Keke Coutee
WR
Texas Tech


5:28
Adonis Alexander
CB
Virginia Tech


7:2
Jaylon Ferguson
EDGE
Louisiana Tech


7:28
Brendan Mahon
G
Penn St.




Interesting idea. Kinda ironic that it I see it the same day I see this http://www.steelersdepot.com/2018/04/casey-hampton-on-playing-nt-what-i-did-is-almost-entirely-extinct-now/

Just not sure that Settle is going to a popular pick come draft day. Doesn't fit the current trends at DT. Billings and othes (who may be more talented?) plumetted just a few years ago...But he sure is a big boy!

[teegre]

2: S KYZIR WHITE, WEST VIRGINIA
3: RB RASHAAD PENNY , SAN DIEGO STATE


Two of my “very biased” favorites (my parents alma mater, my brother’s alma mater). :lol:

Joking aside, those two picks are great.

[LLT]

RD 1: LB RASHAAN EVANS, ALABAMA
Sticking with ILB being our greatest need. Still a toss up for me if we go with Evans or Vander Esch

RD 2: RB SONY MICHEL, GEORGIA
Colbert is saying that Bell will be our RB this year...but I have no confidence that we will sign him to a long term contract. Michel can run, catch and block. I think either he or Rashaad Penny may be a Steeler this year.

RD 3: S KYZER WHITE, WEST VIRGINIA
I want to go with Bates at this spot but I think its more likely that White is still on the board. Bates is the more athletic...White has the better instincts.

RD 5: DL FOLORUNSO FATUKASI, CONNECTICUT
We need another big body up front when we run the 4 man fronts. Fatukasi could be what we need to plug up the middle.

RD 5: WR RICHIE JAMES, MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE
Most mocks have him as s 7th round pick....I do NOT see him making it out of the fifth round. he needs to bluk up but he catches absolutely everything thrown his way.

RD 7: OLB LEON JACOBS, WISCONSIN
Project player with great size, strength and speed. If he is coached up ....he is a steal.

RD 7: CB MICHAEL JOSEPH, DUBUQUE
Another project who needs some time to take ultra athleticism and have it transfer to the NFL level.

[Dwinsgames]

Interesting idea. Kinda ironic that it I see it the same day I see this http://www.steelersdepot.com/2018/04/casey-hampton-on-playing-nt-what-i-did-is-almost-entirely-extinct-now/

Just not sure that Settle is going to a popular pick come draft day. Doesn't fit the current trends at DT. Billings and othes (who may be more talented?) plumetted just a few years ago...But he sure is a big boy!

another interesting thing is this ( was posted today ) from our old friend Curt https://steelerswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/04/3-dramatic-changes-the-steelers-can-make-on-defense-in-2018/

[st33lersguy]

My walk the mock. I envision my future mocks getting a little boring as I continue to put Bates and Leonard as 1-2. That would be my ideal scenario at 1 and 2

1:28 Jessie Bates FS Wake Forest
2:28 Darius Leonard LB South Carolina St.
3:28 Mark Walton RB Miami (FL)
5:11 Hercules Mata'afa EDGE Washington St.
5:28 Mike White QB Western Kentucky
7:2 Will Dissly TE Washington
7:28 Jordan Thomas CB Oklahoma

[Mojouw]

another interesting thing is this ( was posted today ) from our old friend Curt https://steelerswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/04/3-dramatic-changes-the-steelers-can-make-on-defense-in-2018/

The NT issue is interesting from a move countermove perspective. Defenses have adapted to a pass wacky league by shifting responsibility for penetration and pass rush back to the down front. Discourages two gap and using the big uglies as sponges to soak up blockers. Teams like Jags and the Titans have responded by bulking up up front and bringing old school power plays back in an attempt to push around lighter fronts.

The question is will enough teams revisit that on offense to make it valuable for defenses to return to strong run stuffing fronts? I don’t know. But it makes it interesting to project where trends are going. I still believe a pure run stuffing NT does have a role but not as a front line feature of a defense. I think there is just too much movement is asked of down linemen to plug a relatively immobile nose in there and call it a day.

But on the other hand there are many reasons I’m not paid to build NFL defenses!

[Born2Steel]

RD1:LVE - ILB
RD2:Ogbonnia Okoronkwo - Edge
RD3:Allen Lazard - WR
RD5a:Frank Ragnow - OG
RD5b:Genard Avery - ILB/OLB
RD7a:Austin Corbett - OG
RD7b:Troy Fumagalli - TE

[Born2Steel]

RD1: Jessie Bates Safety
RD2: D.J. Chark WR
RD3: Frank Ragnow OC
RD5a: Shaun Dion Hamilton ILB
RD5b: Troy Fumagalli TE
RD7a: Wyatt Teller OG
RD7b: Kahlil McKenzie NT

[BlackAndGold]

1. Jessie Bates, FS, Wake Forest
2. Malik Jefferson, ILB, Texas
3. Richie James, WR, MTSU
5. Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, OLB, Oklahoma
5. Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State
7. ​Jordan Mailata, Tackle, International(AU) (Rugby star, 6'8", athletic, 20 years old. Give Munchak a project to work with. Steelers brought him in for a pre draft visit)
7. Joshua Frazier, NT, Alabama

[Born2Steel]

RD1: Mason Rudolph QB
RD2: Lorenzo Carter OLB/ILB
RD3: Terrell Edmunds Safety
RD5a: Troy Fumagalli TE
RD5b: Wyatt Teller OG
RD7a: Josh Frazier DL
RD7b: Jack Cichy ILB/OLB

[LLT]

R1: LB LEIGHTON VANDER ESCH, BOISE STATE
R2: S JESSIE BATES III, WAKE FOREST
R3: CB DUKE DAWSON, FLORIDA
R5: RB BO SCARBROUGH, ALABAMA
R5: WR RICHIE JAMES, MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE
R7: OLB LEON JACOBS, WISCONSIN
R7: DL PJ HALL, SAM HOUSTON STATE

[SteelMember]

these sims .... what can I say other than yea ok as if one could walk away with this one LOL ( used fanspeak this time )

Oh, yeah. Even set on the difficult level, it seems you really need to use a ranking list that comes "somewhat" close to your line of thinking... or you get

28: R1P28
LB LEIGHTON VANDER ESCH
BOISE STATE

60: R2P28
TE DALLAS GOEDERT
SOUTH DAKOTA STATE

92: R3P28
DL TIM SETTLE
VIRGINIA TECH

148: R5P11
S KYZIR WHITE
WEST VIRGINIA

165: R5P28
LB DARIUS LEONARD
SOUTH CAROLINA STATE

220: R7P2
WR JAVON WIMS
GEORGIA

246: R7P28
CB LEVI WALLACE
ALABAMA

[Born2Steel]

RD1: Rashaan Evans ILB
RD2: Lorenzo Carter OLB/ILB
RD3: Kyzir White Safety/ILB
RD5a: Allen Lazard WR
RD5b: Wyatt Teller OG
RD7a: Josh Frazier DL
RD7b: Riley Ferguson QB

[Dwinsgames]

RD1: Rashaan Evans ILB
RD2: Lorenzo Carter OLB/ILB
RD3: Kyzir White Safety/ILB
RD5a: Allen Lazard WR
RD5b: Wyatt Teller OG
RD7a: Josh Frazier DL
RD7b: Riley Ferguson QB

first 3 rounds are killer

[st33lersguy]

1:28 Rashaan Evans LB Alabama
2:28 Josh Sweat EDGE Florida St.
3:28 Armani Watts FS Texas A&M
5:11 Akrum Wadley RB Iowa
5:28 Kevin Toliver CB LSU
7:2 Maea Teuhema G SLU
7:28 Darren Carrington WR Utah

[Dwinsgames]

My latest mock from walkthemock.com for PIT via Default ranking

1:28 - LB Leighton Vander Esch, Boise St.
2:28 - QB Mason Rudolph, Oklahoma St.
3:28 - EDGE Josh Sweat, Florida St.
5:11 - WR Keke Coutee, Texas Tech
5:28 - RB Nyheim Hines, NC St.
7:2 - G Sam Jones, Arizona St.
7:28 - CB Brandon Facyson, Virginia Tech

[Dwinsgames]

My latest mock from walkthemock.com for PIT via Default ranking

1:28 - LB Rashaan Evans, Alabama
2:28 - RB Nick Chubb, Georgia
3:28 - EDGE Josh Sweat, Florida St.
5:11 - WR Cedric Wilson, Boise St.
5:28 - LB Skai Moore, South Carolina
7:2 - G Brian Allen, Michigan St.
7:28 - CB Arrion Springs, Oregon

[Dwinsgames]

My latest mock from walkthemock.com for PIT via Default ranking

1:28 - LB Rashaan Evans, Alabama ....fills the most pressing need on the team day 1
2:28 - QB Mason Rudolph, Oklahoma St. .....if the rumors are true and they are enamored with him and he falls to this point I do not see them passing
3:28 - RB Royce Freeman, Oregon .... probably a round sooner than he is on most boards but we seen this with the last 2 Steelers RBs drafted both Bell and Conner went off before most thought they would
5:11 - WR Keke Coutee, Texas Tech ....he bailed out Mahomes more times than I could count when scouting Patrick last year fell in love with this kid
5:28 - EDGE Ja'Von Rolland-Jones, Arkansas St...... kid has a chance to be an excellent backup with starter potential
7:2 - WR Tre'Quan Smith, UCF ...steelers mold fights for the football and track speed
7:28 - CB Deion Harris, North Dakota .... Tall corner a bit raw but a very good athlete with a chance to develop a redshirt jr

[Born2Steel]

RD1: Rashaan Evans ILB
RD2: Sam Hubbard OLB
RD3: Terrell Edmunds Safety
RD5a: Bo Scarbrough RB
RD5b: Shaun Dion Hamilton ILB
RD7a: Russell Gage WR
RD7b: Jake Krause OG

3 Bama boys this time, lol. NEVER happen!

[st33lersguy]

1:28 Rashaan Evans LB Alabama
2:28 Terrell Edmunds FS Virginia Tech
3:28 Mark Walton RB Miami (FL)
5:11 Hercules Mata'afa EDGE Washington St.
5:28 Will Dissly TE Washington
7:2 Maea Teuhema G SLU
7:28 Darren Carrington WR Utah

[st33lersguy]

1:28 Jessie Bates FS Wake Forest
2:28 Darius Leonard LB South Carolina St.
3:28 Royce Freeman RB Oregon
5:11 Tyler Conklin TE Central Michigan
5:28 Ja'Von Rolland-Jones EDGE Arkansas St.
7:2 Cam Phillips WR Virginia Tech
7:28 Kendrick Norton DT Miami (FL)

[Born2Steel]

RD1: Darrius Guice RB
RD2: Will Hernandez OG
RD3: Mike Gesicki TE
RD5a: Shaun Dion Hamilton ILB
RD5b: Damon Webb Safety
RD7a: Genard Avery ILB/OLB
RD7b: Russell Gage WR

[Shoes]

RD1: Rashaan Evans ILB
RD2: Sam Hubbard OLB
RD3: Terrell Edmunds Safety
RD5a: Bo Scarbrough RB
RD5b: Shaun Dion Hamilton ILB
RD7a: Russell Gage WR
RD7b: Jake Krause OG

3 Bama boys this time, lol. NEVER happen!


I could live with this.

[Dwinsgames]

I could live with this.

you can ? with no TE ?

someone catch me I might faint LOL

[Shoes]

you can ? with no TE ?

someone catch me I might faint LOL

:lol:

[86WARD]

My latest mock from walkthemock.com for PIT via Default ranking

1:28 - LB Rashaan Evans, Alabama
2:28 - QB Mason Rudolph, Oklahoma St.
3:28 - WR DaeSean Hamilton, Penn St.
5:11 - RB Bo Scarbrough, Alabama
5:28 - SS Trayvon Henderson, Hawaii
7:2 - TE Marcus Baugh, Ohio St.
7:28 - SS Donnie Miles, North Carolina


My latest mock from walkthemock.com for PIT via Default ranking

1:28 - LB Rashaan Evans, Alabama
2:28 - WR James Washington, Oklahoma St.
3:28 - FS Tarvarius Moore, Southern Miss
5:11 - SS Jordan Whitehead, Pitt
5:28 - RB Nyheim Hines, NC St.
7:2 - TE Marcus Baugh, Ohio St.
7:28 - EDGE Jaylon Ferguson, Louisiana Tech

[Dwinsgames]

28: R1P28

CB JOSH JACKSON
IOWA



60: R2P28
LB LEIGHTON VANDER ESCH
BOISE STATE



92: R3P28
RB ROYCE FREEMAN
OREGON



148: R5P11
QB KYLE LAULETTA
RICHMOND



165: R5P28
WR KEKE COUTEE
TEXAS TECH



220: R7P2
S TRE' FLOWERS
OKLAHOMA STATE



246: R7P28
C SCOTT QUESSENBERRY
UCLA




using fanspeak this time around ... we all know this is not possible even in the draft where most anything can happen

[Dwinsgames]

My latest mock from walkthemock.com for PIT via Default ranking

1:28 - LB Rashaan Evans, Alabama
2:28 - EDGE Arden Key, LSU
3:28 - LB Josey Jewell, Iowa
5:11 - FS Godwin Igwebuike, Northwestern
5:28 - RB Nyheim Hines, NC St.
7:2 - G Scott Quessenberry, UCLA
7:28 - WR Steve Ishmael, Syracuse

[SteelMember]

Fanspeak/DraftUtopia big board... seems a little off even in difficult mode. :chuckle:

28: R1P28
LB LEIGHTON VANDER ESCH
BOISE STATE

60: R2P28
S JESSIE BATES III
WAKE FOREST

92: R3P28
TE DALLAS GOEDERT
SOUTH DAKOTA STATE

148: R5P11
LB JEROME BAKER
OHIO STATE

165: R5P28
RB SONY MICHEL
GEORGIA

220: R7P2
WR RITCHIE JAMES
MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE

246: R7P28
DL BILAL NICHOLS
DELAWARE

[Dwinsgames]

Fanspeak/DraftUtopia big board... seems a little off even in difficult mode. :chuckle:

28: R1P28
LB LEIGHTON VANDER ESCH
BOISE STATE

60: R2P28
S JESSIE BATES III
WAKE FOREST

92: R3P28
TE DALLAS GOEDERT
SOUTH DAKOTA STATE

148: R5P11
LB JEROME BAKER
OHIO STATE

165: R5P28
RB SONY MICHEL
GEORGIA

220: R7P2
WR RITCHIE JAMES
MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE

246: R7P28
DL BILAL NICHOLS
DELAWARE

yeah that is off more than a little .... where do I sign up to make it happen ? lol

[BlackAndGold]

Final Mock Draft


1. Jessie Bates, FS, Wake Forest
2. Malik Jefferson, ILB, Texas
3. Richie James, WR, MTSU
5. Akrum Wadley, RB, Iowa
5. Marquis Haynes, OLB, Ole Miss
7. Russell Gage, WR, LSU
7. Jordan Mailata, Tackle, International(AU)


I'm pretty happy with my final mock, believe I filled all the needs.

[st33lersguy]

Final walkthemock simulation of the year, a lot like my previous simulations

1:28 Jessie Bates FS Wake Forest
2:28 Darius Leonard LB South Carolina St.
3:28 Royce Freeman RB Oregon
5:11 Hercules Mata'afa EDGE Washington St.
5:28 Will Dissly TE Washington
7:2 Sam Jones G Arizona St.
7:28 Darren Carrington WR Utah