ESPN NFL draft guru Todd McShay has released his latest mock draft and this time around we get a full three rounds to peruse. McShay typically does a pretty thoughtful projection, and from a Pittsburgh Steelers point of view has a solid understanding of team needs.
This time around, McShay went all defense for all three rounds for the Steelers. I’d look for something very similar to happen when the real draft rolls around in a couple of weeks.
Here is how McShay broke down the Steelers selections.
Round 1 (25): William Jackson III, CB, Houston
Round 2 (58): Darian Thompson, S, Boise State
Round 3 (89): Adam Gotsis, DE, Georgia Tech
Analysis: The Steelers’ pass defense needs a major upgrade after allowing 272 yards per game last season (30th overall). Jackson has a good frame (6-0, 189 pounds) and elite speed (4.37 40). He thrives off the challenge of facing the opposing team’s No. 1 WR, while Thompson finished his Boise State career with 19 interceptions. Gotsis shows terrific toughness on tape and would provide a boost to Pittsburgh’s run defense as he continues to develop.
Hard to argue with any of those choices. Houston’s William Jackson III is my No. 2 cornerback and the Steelers would be fortunate to have him fall into their laps at No. 25.
The same could be said for Boise State safety Darian Thompson. Getting him at No. 58 would a massive bargain. I need to dive into some film of Georgia Tech defensive end Adam Gotsis, but knowing he comes from a base 3-4 defense he would have the set of skills needed to get on the field right away. I’ll do a full write up on him very soon.
