In looking at the NFL draft needs for the Pittsburgh Steelers, an edge rusher has to be up near the top of the list. Pittsburgh has a star in T.J. Watt but after him, things get a little less exciting. Bud Dupree is playing the final year of his contract and hasn’t lived up to the hype. Anthony Chickillo is the team’s primary backup but offers very little in terms of pass rush.
Looking at the edge rushers in the upcoming draft there are some elite prospects at the top but the depth is solid as well. Here is an edge rusher for the Steelers to consider in every round of the upcoming draft.
First round-Montez Sweat | Mississippi State
If not for a heart condition found at the scouting combine Mississippi State edge rusher Montez Sweat would be among the first 10 picks in the draft. If he happens to slide because of it, the Steelers should snatch him up. Sweat has one of the best first steps in the entire draft and shows a great package of pass-rush moves.
Second round-Chase Winovich | Michigan
Moving to the second round we have Michigan’s Chase Winovich. He’s not the polished technician or athlete Sweat is but he’s a hard worker who finds a way to get to the football. Winovich is a smart player who wins with effort and a high football IQ.
Third round-Oshane Ximines | Old Dominion
Old Dominion edge rusher Oshane Ximines could end up coming off the board sooner than this is someone is banking on his athleticism and hoping he can learn technique quickly at the next level. He needs to be stronger at the point of attack and isn’t experienced in terms of coverage.
Fourth round-Joe Jackson | Miami
In college, Miami edge rusher Joe Jackson beefed up to almost 260 pounds and his athleticism took a hit. He was already not the most diverse edge rusher in the draft but losing some explosion with the added bulk doesn’t help his case. The team who drafts Jackson will need to not only work on polish to his game but also lean out to get his explosion up.
Fifth round-Wyatt Ray | Boston College
In terms of upside, Boston College’s Wyatt Ray might have the most of any guy on this list. He’s not the most explosive guy off the snap but consistently finds ways to be productive.
Sixth round-Ben Banogu | TCU
TCU’s Ben Banogu looks the part of an NFL edge rusher but he is very much a developmental prospect. If the Steelers draft him it isn’t in hopes he’s rushing the passer as a rookie but more that he could benefit from NFL coaching and end up being a productive rotational guy.
Seventh round-Carl Granderson | Wyoming
Again, this late in the draft we are thinking upside and Wyoming’s Carl Granderson has plenty of it. He’s not a very instinctive player and takes himself out of plays too often but his hard skills are all there. He needs to show more consistent effort as it will waiver when he opts to be overly cautious.
