(Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images)
The Steelers have a lot of needs heading into the 2021 NFL Draft, so they can go in several different directions in the first round. In my opinion, their three biggest needs are at running back, offensive tackle and center, followed by inside linebacker, cornerback, outside linebacker and tight end.
I really don't think they can go wrong with a top-tier running back, offensive tackle, or center in the first round.
Some believe that selecting a center in the first round is a little rich, and no one in this year's draft is really considered a definite first-round pick. However, former Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum thinks it would be a wise move for the Steelers to select a center at 24th overall, especially with the retirement of Maurkice Pouncey this offseason.
In Tannenbaum's NFL GM mock draft on ESPN, he has the Steelers selecting Oklahoma center Creed Humphrey in the first round. Tannenbaum says Humphrey fits the Steelers build perfectly.
"He is tough, smart, physical, and a former wrestler," Tannenbaum said of Humphrey. "Team building 101 is getting a center who you can build the offensive line around for years."
I wouldn't be opposed to the Steelers selecting Humphrey in the first round. Center is definitely a big need. Going into the 2021 season with B.J. Finney as the starting center would be a massive mistake. Humphrey would be a plug-and-play starter right from the beginning.
However, if Alabama running back Najee Harris is still on the board and the Steelers select Humphrey instead, that should create a heated discussion among Steelers fans. Like I said though, with so many needs, I don't think they can go wrong with addressing running back, offensive tackle, or center with an elite player at one of the respective positions in the first round.
Comments