Pittsburgh Steelers
Key Draft Needs: LB, DE, QB
Record: 9-5
Defensive End –At defensive end the Steelers could use a pass rushing specialist to help boost the sack production of the Steelers defensive unit. Pittsburgh’s 32 sacks aren’t anything to sneeze at, but they can be improved. A healthy Cameron Heyward helps, but stronger depth can be added. A late-round pick could find value for the Steelers.
Linebacker – Jarvis Jones, James Harrison, and Lawrence Timmons are both in the final years of their current contracts and the Steelers would be smart to bring in some talent to compete at both OLB, and ILB. They do have Vince Williams, but he doesn’t have the coverage ability to be a three down linebacker in today’s NFL. It seems the Steelers are constantly drafting linebackers, but once again they must address the position. With a late first round pick, it may be difficult to find the physical stud they need. Perhaps Tyler Matakevich gets more playing time if Timmons is not retained.
Quarterback – Ben Roethlisberger is 34 and has again missed time due to a variety of nagging injuries. It’s time for the Steelers to begin their search for a quarterback of the future. If they find one in the 2017 draft he will be able to learn for a few seasons behind a future Hall of Famer. A late round pick on C.J. Beathard, Pitts’ Nathan Peterson, or Josh Dobbs could pay off for the Steelers.