If you are like us, this offseason has been brutal and you are just itching for something Pittsburgh Steelers related to happen. Virtual offseason workouts are going and we are still hopeful training camp will happen as it should and the season can get going.
But until then, we wanted to talk a little about the 2021 NFL draft. College football is just a couple of months away and there’s no better time for casual fans to get a handle on who the top prospects are for the upcoming season.
So we decided to do a little mock draft simulation for 2021 and here’s the haul we got with the Steelers picking 20th overall in each round.
First round
Trey Lance | QB | North Dakota State
If Lance played at a school like Oklahoma or Alabama, he’d the top of every Heisman watch list. He’s got an NFL-ready skill set and the Steelers could be in a perfect position to draft him as the third quarterback off the board just like they did back in 2004 with Ben Roethlisberger.
Second round
Zamir White | RB | Georgia
We know the Steelers just drafted Anthony McFarland Jr. in 2020 but if the Steelers opt to release Jaylen Samuels and don’t re-sign James Conner, running back will be a need. White is the next great Georgia running back in the NFL with excellent patience and burst to the hole.
Third round
Alaric Jackson | OT | Iowa
The University of Iowa just churns out great offensive linemen. Jackson chose to return to college after an injury-filled 2019. If he can get back to full health and improve his pass protection he will be a steal in the third round.
Fourth round
Merlin Robertson | LB | Arizona State
Regardless of what happens this season, the Steelers need to address the inside linebacker position in the draft. Robertson is a fascinating guy with excellent size and a solid all-around game as an off-ball linebacker.
Fifth round
Reggie Roberson | WR | SMU
Robertson is an ascending player who will take over the role of No. 1 receiver for SMU this season. He’s a dynamic downfield threat who could be needed if Pittsburgh cannot re-sign JuJu Smith-Schuster.
Sixth round
Josh Pederson | TE | UL Monroe
Pederson is a name to keep an eye on. He’s a little lean for an NFL tight end but could be a nice developmental player late in the draft.
Seventh round
Kyree Campbell | DT | Florida
The Steelers can never have enough versatile defensive lineman and Campbell has some interesting physical tools the Steelers’ staff can coach up.
