NEWSLETTER
2024 NFL Mock Draft: Pittsburgh Steelers: After a disappointing 2023 season, the Pittsburgh Steelers head into the 2024 NFL Draft with a clear mission: bolster their offensive line and replenish a depleted secondary. With the 20th overall pick, the Steelers have a critical decision to make – address the trenches or chase a dynamic weapon on offense?Â
Here’s a breakdown of a 2024 NFL Mock Draft for the Pittsburgh Steelers, using the PFF Mock Draft simulator, focusing on the first three rounds:
2024 NFL Mock Draft: Pittsburgh Steelers
Round 1, Pick 20: JC Latham, OT, Alabama
The Steelers’ offensive line woes have been well-documented.
Inconsistency in pass protection has hampered quarterback development, and a lack of push in the run game has stifled the Steelers’ traditional identity. Addressing the line becomes paramount, and with JC Latham on the board at 20, the Steelers find a solution that could impact the franchise for years to come.
Latham, a mountain of a man at 6’8″ and 335 lbs, is a dominant force in the run game. His raw power allows him to maul defenders at the point of attack, creating gaping holes for the running backs. Latham possesses impressive footwork, enabling him to seal the edge against speed rushers and shut down stunts and blitzes. This ability will be crucial in keeping the quarterback upright and the running game churning.
While Latham excels in run blocking, his pass blocking needs refinement. He can be susceptible to bull rushes and occasionally struggles with setting a wide base. However, Latham’s raw athleticism and coachability suggest he can develop into a top-tier tackle in the NFL. Learning under the tutelage of offensive line guru Mike Munchak could unlock his full potential.
The Steelers have a long history of drafting offensive linemen in the first round, and Latham embodies the traits they covet – size, power, and a relentless work ethic. His arrival instantly upgrades the offensive line, providing much-needed stability for the running game and a vital shield for the quarterback.
Round 2, Pick 51: Zach Frazier, C, West Virginia
With offensive tackle addressed in the first round, the Steelers turn their attention to the center position in the second round. Zach Frazier, a high-motor center out of West Virginia, presents a perfect fit for the Steelers’ scheme.
Frazier is a technician at the center position. He excels at snapping the ball quickly and accurately, ensuring smooth handoffs and a clean pocket for the quarterback. His intelligence and leadership qualities are off the charts, allowing him to effectively call out protections and adjust blocking schemes at the line of scrimmage.
While Frazier isn’t the biggest center (6’2″, 305 lbs), he makes up for it with exceptional agility and strength. He excels in zone blocking schemes, anchoring against bull rushes and showcasing the lateral movement to handle stunts and blitzes. His arrival provides stability and leadership within the offensive line, a critical component for success in the Steelers’ run-heavy offense.
Round 3, Pick 84: Devontez Walker, WR, North Carolina
Shifting gears to the offensive side of the ball again, the Steelers snag a potential steal in the third round with Devontez Walker, a dynamic wide receiver out of North Carolina. Walker boasts elite speed (4.40 40-yard dash) and exceptional route-running ability. He can take the top off a defense with his blazing speed, stretching the field vertically and creating opportunities for underneath routes.
Walker thrives on deep corner routes and go routes, utilizing his speed to blow past defenders and create separation. He displays a knack for high-pointing throws and possesses strong hands, ensuring he catches the ball in traffic. However, Walker isn’t just a one-trick pony. He runs a crisp route tree, showcasing impressive footwork and the ability to create separation on slants and curls.
Walker’s arrival adds a much-needed deep threat to the Steelers’ offense. Pairing him with Diontae Johnson instantly creates a formidable receiving duo capable of attacking all levels of the field. If Walker can refine his route-running and develop his ability to catch in contested situations, he has the potential to become a Pro Bowl-caliber receiver.
Round 3, Pick 98: Jarian Jones, CB, Florida State
With their final pick in the third round, the Steelers address a glaring need in the secondary by selecting Jarian Jones, a versatile cornerback from Florida State. Jones possesses ideal size (6’1″, 205 lbs) and impressive athleticism for the cornerback position. He consistently tracks receivers downfield and displays the closing speed to impede their routes and contest passes at the catch point.
Jones plays a physical brand of football, excelling in press coverage and disrupting receivers at the line of scrimmage.
