PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – One of the bigger takeaways from the Steelers pre-draft news conference was Mike Tomlin saying he wasn't thirsty for players. They believe they've filled their needs in free agency.
Is that really the case? Could the Steelers go into the three-day draft and not have to pick certain positions? Of course not. There are obvious holes which the Steelers might have players slotted in there right now, but there are better options. Why settle for a dude when you could have a baller?
Let's also come to the reality that we all shouldn't believe much of anything that is said leading up to the NFL Draft. Tomlin even admitted he stands and watches players he doesn't have interest in when he knows cameras are on him. Whether that's true or not is debatable, but know it's about disinformation right now.
You would hope the Steelers know they need better at the following positions if they believe they can get into 'The Confetti Game' which is the new Tomlinism for winning the Super Bowl
Center
· Nate Herbig is a solid, veteran swing tackle who can fill in at center. He plays with a nasty streak and has started 30 games in his career, all at guard.
· 2023 seventh-round pick Spencer Anderson won a roster spot at training camp with the ability to play every position. He's 6'5", 305, but started only five games in college at center during his sophomore year before transitioning out to guard and tackle
Both could be injury fill-ins, both MIGHT be able to be a starting center in the NFL. Remember the last time the Steelers started a MIGHT be with little college experience at center. Not saying these guys are Kendrick Green, but they can find someone more experienced in the draft
Tackle
· Sure, let everyone hate on Dan Moore, Junior. The 25-year-old fourth round pick occasionally will get a nice grade from PFF, but even if you think he's the answer at left tackle. Moore is going into the last year of his rookie contract.
· The other tackle option other than 2023 first-round pick Broderick Jones currently on the active roster is Dylan Cook. He is intriguing at 6'5", 280 pounds, but a few years ago he was playing quarterback.
You are going to need another tackle and they are expensive in free agency. There are many first-round options or even guys like Pitt's Matt Goncalves likely available in day three. It is a position of need.
Corner
· Second round pick Joey Porter, Junior is quickly the starter on one side, right now the other is Donte Jackson. A very expensive, inconsistent veteran on a very rich contract.
· Others on the roster, undrafted 6'2" Darius Rush. He shows potential, but has three games of experience and there are three players on Futures contracts including a former XFL star
Tomlin did say Monday, and it's likely this was true, that while the receiver position is deep because of the evolution of the college and high school game, so is cornerback. Hard to think they aren't thirsty for another outside cover defensive back.
Wide receiver
· Right now in that room it's George Pickens, with two years left on his rookie contract. Calvin Austin, who has battled injuries and trying to find a role also with two years left.
· Steelers signed veterans Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins, each has had flashes of impact, but the majority of their careers has been inconsistent. Maybe it's because of the teams they are on or systems they were in, but neither is a sure thing and each is on a short contract.
You could probably make the argument that you need to draft a receiver every year. This year they need to add. Pickens needs a Robin and the offense needs another playmaker.
Others
· Middle linebacker-Elandon Roberts is going into the final year of his contract and they don't know when Cole Holcomb might be available. Mark Robinson is an ongoing project.
· Defensive line-don't' tell Cam, but he's been in the league for a while. Larry Ogunjobi stayed healthy last year, but wasn't as productive as hoped. Keeanu Benton looks to be a younger fixture, it's an area you can add
It's a good soundbite to say you are not thirsty for players and you did add significant pieces in free agency, but make no mistake. The Steelers go into the NFL Draft with needs, not just wants.
