Pittsburgh Steelers Seven Round Mock Draft – Update 1

Pittsburgh Steelers Seven Round Mock Draft – Update 1
March 30th, 2014 By Mark Mihalko
http://www.sportsmedia101.com/pittsb...raft-update-1/

One of the best parts of the NFL off-season is the NFL Draft. With this years event moved to May, it gives fans even more time to dissect the players and determine the right fit for their favorite franchise. With free agency in full swing, some draft pictures are becoming clear and that appears to somewhat be the case with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
After some wait, the Steelers received news that they were being awarded three compensation picks in the 2014 draft. While those selections cannot be traded, they do give the team added flexibility heading into draft day. Of course, that sill does not change anything and as the draft inches closer, the idea of trading back in the first makes a lot of sense considering the salary cap situation and the roster.
This will be the second attempt of 2014 at projecting all seven rounds in a mock draft for the Steelers. As always, we would truly appreciate any and all feedback on this attempt at a mock draft or any of our articles at Steelers 101. Feel free to interact with us on these picks by commenting on the post, on our facebook fan page or on twitter @Steelers_101.

Round 1 – CB Darqueze Dennard – Michigan State
The Steelers could go many different directions with this selection and Dennard continues to make the most sense with the players available. A talented corner, he may be the most game ready player available at the position. With Ike Taylor in the fold for another season and Cortez Allen potentially a free agent, they need to be prepared for the long haul.
Round 2 – WR Davante Adams – Fresno State
The Steelers are looking for help at wide receiver and they find it in Adams. A bigger receiver receiver, he has a skill set that should allow him to develop into a solid playmaker in the NFL. More importantly, he has a knack for finding the End Zone, something that is always enticing.
Round 3 (Compensation) – CB Stanley Jean-Baptiste – Nebraska
The Steelers decide to double up on cornerbacks Jean-Baptiste would be a solid compliment to Dennard. An experienced defensive back, he has solid burst and coverage abilities. He may lack some toughness against the run, but he is a big corner who could be a long-term fixture in the secondary.
Round 4 – DE Will Clarke – West Virginia
The Steelers are definitely going to address all of the layers of their defense and Clarke could come in and add depth to the defensive line. An experienced player in a three-man front, he could surprise early in his career.
Round 5 – OLB Morgan Breslin – USC

With the release of LaMarr Woodley, the team may need to add to their linebacking corps. Breslin is a versatile defender that could come in and compete.
Round 5 (Compensation) – NT Justin Ellis – Louisiana Tech

The Steelers need to add a big run stuffer in this draft and the 6-2; 342-pound Ellis can be that player. A versatile lineman, he has the ability to pay multiple positions up front and would be a solid edition to the defensive line rotation.
Round 6 – TE Jordan Najvar – Baylor

This 6-6 tight end is not a blocking machine, but he has the athleticism and hands to step outside the formation and create mismatches. The Steelers may have other needs, but adding playmakers can always help the cause.
Round 6 (Compensation) – WR/RB Dri Archer – Kent State

The Steelers could use a diminutive playmaker on offense and Archer has the skill set to make that happen. Yes, he is small, but he has speed and hands, something you cannot teach.
Round 7 – OLB Derrell Johnson – East Carolina

The Steelers decide to double up on cornerbacks and outside linebackers. Johnson may need some time to develop, but he has a nasty streak and is physical at the point of attack. More importantly, he is a solid edge rusher that could add depth to the position.