NFL mock draft 2021: Panthers, Patriots, Bears get aggressive for QBs

The Pittsburgh Steelers do not trade up often but they will for the right player and if the price is right. The cupboard is starting to get bare with first-round caliber offensive tackles in this NFL mock draft, allowing the Steelers an opportunity to get aggressive. In this trade, they swap picks with the Las Vegas Raiders (No. 24 for No. 17) and send the Raiders a third-round selection. The Raiders also send Pittsburgh a 2022 sixth-round selection to help even up the value.

2021 NFL mock draft: Round 1, 17th overall

After moving up seven spots, the Steelers are able to put themselves in a position to land Oklahoma State offensive tackle Teven Jenkins. Jenkins played both tackle positions in college and did so at a high level. He also played a bit of right guard at Oklahoma State but seems to have the size/athletic profile needed to stick at tackle at the next level.

Jenkins is a big and powerful offensive lineman who does a great job of getting his hands on the defender quickly and controlling them with impressive natural grip strength. He is powerful at the point of attack and also plays with a mean streak that leads to him driving defenders down the field and far away from the ball often.

Jenkins is not the smoothest mover in space but he does tend to win a lot of pass rush reps by being aggressive and firing out with powerful strikes. Jenkins will have to work on his vertical pass sets at the next level but there is some athletic ability here. He should be able to handle speed at an adequate level on the edge.

The Pittsburgh Steelers love big and physical football players who consistently play through the whistle and Jenkins certainly fits the bill. Offensive tackle is also a major need for this team so making a small trade up the board for Jenkins could end up being a realistic scenario.