The 2019 NFL scouting combine is in the books and next up for the Pittsburgh Steelers is making the rounds of pro days and individual workouts. Honestly, the came and went without a huge amount of fanfare. Nevertheless, the Steelers were active in meeting with prospects and based on who came out on top, there are several takeaways
Moving on from Antonio Brown is real
Pittsburgh wasn’t shy about its interest in many of the top wide receivers in attendance. Guys like N’Keal Harry, D.K. Metcalf, A.J. Brown and Marquise are all elite prospects who would be firmly in the mix for the Steelers with the 20th overall pick. This level of interest not only tells me Pittsburgh is confident it can get a trade it feels is fair for Brown, but understands when Brown leaves, wide receiver immediately becomes a top draft priority.
Speed on offense is still an issue
Going beyond the wide receivers we already talked about, Pittsburgh is also taking a closer look at adding speed in the backfield. The Steelers met with former Oklahoma State running back Justice Hill, who happened to be one of the fastest running backs at the combine. Hill ran a 4.4 40-yard dash and could provide the Steelers with the breakaway threat they have lacked at running back.
Still looking for a new inside linebacker
Despite the players on the current roster, Pittsburgh seems intent on spending another top pick on an inside linebacker. The Steelers met with Mack Wilson and Devin White, both first-round guys and could be hoping one of them can be the next Ryan Shazier. Neither guy is that level of talent and considering how little the Steelers use multiple inside linebackers, it seems misguided to potentially commit a top pick to one.
Maximum attention given to defensive backs
On the final day, the Steelers wasted no time meeting many of the top defensive backs at the combine. A name you should get used to hearing in relation to the Steelers is former Washington standout Byron Murphy. Many mock drafts have him penciled in for Pittsburgh. The Steelers haven’t shown they can properly scout and pick cornerbacks so seeing them so interested in several at the combine is worrisome. Pittsburgh also gave a look to several safeties in anticipation of Morgan Burnett being given his release.
