You could have made the argument that the Packers played a perfect game, while the Steelers played mediocre, but regardless of the “excuses” made by fans, there was no doubt that the Steelers had a few holes to fill.
Weeks ago, most fans, and even experts thought that the Steelers picking a defensive back in the first round was almost definite. As it turned out, a defensive back was not even picked until round three. Instead, the Steelers took the four-year starter at Ohio State, defensive end Cameron Heyward, and an offensive tackle out of Florida, Marcus Gilbert.
Heyward is likely to make an early impact for the Steelers this upcoming season. His size, and motor reminds you a lot of Ziggy Hood. With those two coming off of the edge, the Steelers’ already strong pass rush can only strengthen.
Marcus Gilbert ‘s 6’6, 330 pound frame sure looks good on paper. Gilbert played in fifty-two games for the Gators, starting in thirty of them, including all thirteen his senior year. He has a significantly quick kick step, and shows unique athleticism for his size.
In round three, the Steelers finally drafted a defensive back. Curtis Brown, a cornerback out of Texas, has quick feet, and loose hips making him very effective in pass coverage. However, he has only two career interceptions, and is slightly undersized at only 180 pounds. This may cause him to struggle against bigger, more physical receivers.
The Steelers went with another DB in round four, drafting Cortez Allen from The Citadel. Allen stands at 6’1, and weighs in at nearly 200 pounds. His size and strength are where they need to be, however he only ran a 4.5 at the combine. Not the worst time, but he could struggle when facing faster receivers. Look for him to make an impact on special teams, or even as a rotator on defense.
In round five, the Steelers picked up Chris Carter, a linebacker out of Fresno State. As a defensive end in college, Carter finished his career with nearly 200 tackles, and 19.5 sacks. At only 6’1, 248, Carter switched to outside linebacker before entering the draft. Look for him also to make an early impact on special teams.
In the sixth round, the Steelers picked another offensive lineman, Keith Williams, a guard out of Nebraska. At 6’4, 318 pounds, Williams remotely reminds you of Alan Faneca. He was an All-Big 12 Honorable mention in 2010, starting in all 13 games for the Cornhuskers.
In the seventh, and final round, the Steelers picked up Baron Batch, a running back out of Texas Tech. I’m not too sure how much we will see out of this guy. He’s quick and elusive, but slightly undersized for an NFL back. At best, we’ll see him as an occasional 3rd down back.
Overall, the Steelers had a pretty solid draft. Their first two picks are very promising. It is quite possible that both Heyward, and Gilbert will be starting for the Steelers by pre-season. Both Cortez Allen, and Curtis Brown have potential to contribute one way or another. Chris Carter may be a sleeper, and could start to make an impact as early as mid-season. Williams will go as far as his hard work will take him, and although the seventh round pick was a head scratcher to some, Batch’s athleticism could earn him a living in this league.
OVERALL GRADE - B-
written by Alex Muchnok
I really like that Chris Carter. He very well could be Harrison's replacement if Worilds doesn't step up, although I'm confident that he will.
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