Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 NFL Draft Needs
June 9, 2008
There was a ton of anxiety in Pittsburgh last season to see how new head coach Mike Tomlin could get this team to play. The Steelers played well, but they didn’t make any drastic changes from previous years under Bill Cowher. Tomlin now has a season under his belt and their could be some drastic changes on the horizon to better this team. The offensive line needs revamped and the defense needs to get younger, despite allowing the least amount of yards in the league last season. Larry gives you his 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers NFL Draft Predictions below.
2008 Pittsburgh Steelers NFL Draft Needs:
1.) Offensive Tackle
OLT Marvel Smith has had back problems, making this a pressing need. Max Starks played well in place of smith at the end of the season, but a knee injury in the regular season finale puts his health in jeopardy. ORT Willie Colon was unspectacular in his first full season as a starter and may be best suited for a guard. Trai Essex was a 3rd-rounder in ‘05 and hasn’t played much in his 3 seasons here. It all depends on Smith’s health as to whether tackle is their No. 1 need, but either way look for the Steelers to snatch one up in the first couple rounds.
2.) Offensive Guard
OLG Alan Faneca has tested free agency and is likely gone in Pittsburgh. Losing Faneca is going to be a tremendous blow after being one of the best guards in football and the difference-maker on the Steelers offensive line. Chris Kemoeatu could replace Faneca, or ORG Kendall Simmons could slide into his spot, but neither is a satisfactory replacement.
3.) Cornerback
Mike Tomlin should be looking for a corner or two despite the Steelers finishing first in average pass gain allowed last season. Ike Taylor, Deshea Townsend and Bryant McFadden are all serviceable. The Steelers are effective in their pass defense because of the pressure their front seven puts on opponents, putting them in bad down-and-distance situations. A couple lockdown corners to compliment these pass rushers would help Pittsburgh mightily in the playoffs against the likes of the Patriots and Colts.
4.) Center
Sean Mahan’s first season in Pittsburgh was very tough. He struggled to get a push in the running game and also had his hands full with interior pass rushers. He would make a much better reserve. Simmons could get a look here if the Steelers add a couple guards, but if not there will surely be another center added to the mix via NFL Draft.
5.) Defensive End
DLE Aaron Smith has had a brilliant career in Pittsburgh, but he’s entering his 10th season following a torn biceps injury. DRE Brett Keisel was a disappointment in ‘07. The Steelers need to pick up a young, stout defensive end on Draft Day to add depth to a position that needs a little new blood.
2008 NFL Draft Prospects to fit Offensive Scheme:
The Steelers mix power-running sets with 4-WR formations which QB Ben Roethlisberger prefers. Coordinator Bruce Arians is a more pass-happy guy than Whisenhunt when he was here during their Super Bowl run. RB Willie Parker doesn’t go wanting for work by any means, though. OG-OT Branden Albert of Virginia, OG Robert Felton of Arkansas, OT King Dunlap of Auburn and C Fernando Velaso of Georgia would help shore up the Steelers offensive line on Draft Day. RB Chauncey Washington of USC and WR Paul Hubbard of Wisconsin are a couple playmakers they could add to the mix.
2008 NFL Draft Prospects to fit Defensive Scheme:
Dick LeBeau loves the zone blitz and you will see the Steelers continue to run his defense as long as he’s coordinator. The Steelers mix their coverages with mostly cover-2 and cover-3 looks. DE Kenny Iwebema of Iowa, OLB Philip Wheeler of Georgia Tech, OLB Titus Brown of Mississippi State and DE Johnny Dingle of West Virginia are players the Steelers will be looking at to help solidify their front seven via NFL Draft. CB Brandon Flowers of Virginia Tech and CB Tyvon Branch are the cover-2, cover-3 type corners they will be looking for as well.