Steelers mock draft 1.0: The way too early version

It’s mock draft season once again.  Time for our Steelers mock draft 1.0.  It’s still very early in the process without having the combine or even the Senior Bowl yet.  Having said that, the Steelers needs are pretty straight forward.  They will need help along both lines, at corner, and even at receiver to name just a few.  With all that in mind, lets see our first installment in the mock draft series:

Round 1: Nicholas Petit-Frere OT, Ohio St.

The number one priority for the Steelers in the 2022 off-season is to fix their woeful offensive line.  Will the Steelers offensive line be their undoing in 2021?  With Chuks Okorafor likely gone via free agency, right tackle is of particular importance.  Nicholas Petit-Frere played both right and left tackle while at Ohio St.  He’s an athletic tackle despite his hulking size (6’5”,315lbs).  Petit-Frere instantly improves the Steelers line for 2022.

Round 2: Travis Jones DT, Connecticut

The run defense was a close second in terms of concerns for Pittsburgh. Travis Jones’ massive frame (6’4” 328lbs) helps the team in this area, and protects against the very real possibility that Stephon Tuitt is not back in 2022.

Round 3:  Mario Goodrich CB, Clemson

The likely departure of Joe Haden makes corner a high priority for the Steelers.  Mario Goodrich is a tough physical corner who is an above average tackler.  He is also an excellent special teams player, which certainly would be looked at as a huge plus by Pittsburgh.  It will be interesting to see how he tests at the combine to determine what kind of athlete he is.

Round 4:  Christian Watson WR, North Dakota St.

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If you haven’t heard of Christian Watson yet, you will.  At 6’5”, and some reports having him as fast as 4.3 speed, this player is a physical freak.  The speed shows on tape with several long touchdowns both through the air, and on end arounds.   The Steelers need a burner at receiver, and could grab one here in the fourth round.

Round 7a: Smoke Monday S, Auburn

The Steelers may be in the market for a strong safety if they do not re-sign Terrell Edmunds.  Monday would be an excellent option this late in the draft.

Round 7b:  Christopher Allen Edge, Alabama:

Christopher Allen may end up being a steal this late in the draft.  A foot injury early on caused him to miss most of the 2021 season.  In 2020, six sacks and 13 tfls for the Crimson Tide.  We couldn’t let our Steelers mock draft 1.0 go by without adding at least one pass rusher.