By Matt Papiernik, @Matt_Papiernik on Twitter
SteelerNation.com
With the 2020 NFL Draft looming closer day by day, I am going to be doing a quick mock draft every week just for the Pittsburgh Steelers, utilizing the mock draft tool at thedraftnetwork.com. This is the third in this series, and now, features the Steelers 3rd round compensatory pick that they were awarded, which is number 102 overall. Let's get it started!
Last week with the Steelers first pick, I went with a similar strategy as I did above. But this week, I was a little more fortunate with who fell to me by being able to take J.K. Dobbins, a RB out of The Ohio State University. Dobbins was a work horse this past season for the Buckeyes, as he eclipsed the 300 touch mark and 2,000 yard mark. Dobbins is a powerful runner who possesses "make you miss" quickness in tight spaces. He is a willing blocker in the passing game who can help step in immediately and provide a boost to an offense that lacked many game changing plays last season.
Chase Claypool helped his stock as much as anyone during the combine. When he came in weighing nearly 240lbs, many thought he would be transitioning full time to tight end. However, he then proceeded to post a blazing 40-yard dash time of 4.42s. That was the 7th fastest time by a receiver, which is an astounding feat to begin with, let alone for someone of his stature. Whether the Steelers decide to use him as a tight end or a wide receiver, he would definitely provide a unique skill set to their offense.
Even if the Steelers keep Bud Dupree, they need to add depth behind him and TJ Watt, as none of the other OLB's on the roster have much production in their careers. In slides Alex Highsmith out of Charlotte. Highsmith really made people take a hard look at him this draft season, as he caused havoc in the backfield registering 21 tackles for loss and 15 sacks this past season. He needs to fill out a little bit and work on his ability to hold up against the run, but he should be able to make a quick impact rushing the passer.
There is a lot of talk the Steelers will be moving on from Ramon Foster this off-season. Regardless if it happens, the Steelers need to add depth on the interior, and Solomon Kindley is an excellent option to do just that. Kindley is a mauler in the run game who loves to drive forward, which works well in the Steelers power run game. He has some technique work to do as a pass blocker, but he is very light on his feet which should help him see playing time sooner rather than later.
The Steelers likely won't have the cap space to re-sign Javon Hargrave this off-season, which is unfortunate with how well he played. Benito Jones is a massive human being that is more than capable of taking up space in the middle of the Steelers defensive line in wake of Hargrave's departure, and has proven he is capable of getting after the QB as well when asked to.
Lynn Bowden is a household name for all college football fans. He made the transition to QB this season to help a Kentucky team that struggled with injuries and lack of depth at the position. Bowden played well at QB for the Wildcats, but that isn't his long term position. Bowden profiles as a quick slot receiver who will work best in space. He will likely need to be used very creatively on offense early on as he continues to develop, but he can make an immediate impact on special teams as a returner.
Let us know what you think of Matt's Weekly Mock Draft!
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