The Pittsburgh Steelers selected defensive tackle Keeanu Benton in the second round of the 2023 NFL draft to be that big bully in the middle of the defensive line. But that didn’t stop ESPN NFL draft analyst Jordan Reid from giving the Steelers another defensive tackle in the first round of his new 2024 NFL mock draft.
Reid opted for LSU’s Maason Smith to Pittsburgh with the No. 14 overall pick:
The Steelers don’t have many glaring weaknesses in their starting lineup, but they might be looking for succession plans in multiple areas at draft time next year. They value defensive line depth, and Smith brings high-end traits. There are big expectations for the 6-foot-5, 310-pound interior defender to rebound after he tore his left ACL in the season-opener last season. When healthy, Smith is agile and disruptive, and he can be moved around on the first level.
Pittsburgh has worked hard the last two seasons to build a really strong defensive line. The addition of Benton along with DeMarvin Leal, Larry Ogunjobi, Montravius Adams and Breiden Fehoko along with the ageless wonder Cam Heyward is a very good group. Who is leaving after this season to open up a spot for Smith?
