When the Pittsburgh Steelers drafted former Pitt star running back James Conner back in 2017, Steelers fans cheered. Not just because Conner is a talented back or because his comeback story is remarkable but also because he’s a local hero.
Our friends over at Draft Wire put out a brand new two-round mock draft and they went with another local hero for the Steelers with the No. 16 overall pick. In their scenario, Pittsburgh takes the first quarterback in the round and it’s Pitt star Kenny Pickett.
Here’s what they had to say about the pick:
Finally, a quarterback. This year’s class leaves much to be desired, but the Steelers are desperate for both a short-term improvement and long-term solution as the Ben Roethlisberger era comes to a close. Pickett has made the most of his extra year of eligibility, and has been as impressive as any passer in the country this year.
The Steelers having their pick of quarterbacks would be an interesting problem to have. It’s hard to argue with Pickett as he’s easily the most improved player in college football this season. But in the modern NFL, a more athletic quarterback is so necessary, a player like Ole Miss signal-caller Matt Corral would be tempting.
Moving to the second round, Draft Wire has Pittsburgh drafting Oklahoma edge rusher Nik Bonitto. There’s no doubt Pittsburgh needs to add an edge rusher and Bonitto is an excellent prospect. Going through the rest of the picks in the second round, the Steelers should have their pick of guys who can come in and play early on either side of the football.
Finally in the third round, the Steelers land massive Georgia offensive lineman Jamaree Salyer. With guard Trai Turner headed to free agency, Salyer could slide right it at right guard.
