It’s finally here, ladies and gentlemen! Pre-draft coverage has begun, and yours truly could not be more excited. This is our first year covering the draft here at SCN, but you can expect similar coverage to what we gave you at BTSC.

Mock draft 1.0 is always the most difficult mock draft to do, as many underclassmen have not yet made their decision as to whether or not they will declare for the draft. However, a mock draft this early is not done for specific projection purposes, but rather for the purpose of becoming familiarized with many of the top prospects as well as potential team needs.

For each NFL mock draft I do for FFSN, I will have a correlating Steelers mock draft specifically for SCN. My first mock draft was just one round long, but for the Steelers specifically, I will be projecting the first three rounds. Currently, the Steelers have needs at center, right tackle, cornerback, linebacker, and defensive line. Quarterback cannot be left out of the equation either.

I always enjoy the conversations on these articles, so be sure to chime in with your thoughts in the comment section down below. Let’s dive in!

Round 1, Pick 16- Taliese Fuaga | OT | Oregon State

Taking a PAC-12 player in Round 1 is not the norm for the Steelers, but the philosophy under Omar Khan and Andy Weidl may be different. We have already seen the value this front office places on the offensive and defensive lines, and there is definitely a need at right tackle. At 6’6″, 330 pounds, Fuaga was a big part of the success Oregon State saw on the ground this season, as his pure power and lower body strength was too much for PAC-12 defenders to handle.

For a player his size, Fuaga displays impressive nimbleness and finesse. His sound pad level and hand placement allow him to win the battle for leverage as a run blocker, and in pass protection, he is quick out of his stance and surprisingly good at mirroring defenders. There is a lot to like with Fuaga as a right tackle, and for the Steelers, he could be the piece the team needs to take this running game to the next level.

Also considered: Sedrick Van Pran (C- UGA), Jeremiah Trotter, Jr. (LB- CLEM)

Round 2, Pick 47- Jaylan Ford | LB | Texas

Offensive and defensive line are still very much in play here, but if the value presents itself at linebacker, the Steelers may decide to pull the trigger. While none of the three main free-agent acquisitions at linebacker were “bad” signings, they all struggled with injuries, and neither Kwon Alexander nor Elandon Roberts are locked up long-term. Getting someone with youth and range needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.

At 6’2″, 242 pounds, Ford possesses the size to be a difference maker in the run game, but he is definitely not limited to early downs. Ford displays great range and instincts in coverage, having intercepted six passes over the past two seasons. If his athletic testing goes as good as I anticipate, expect Ford to be locked in as a top-50 selection.

Also considered: Jackson Powers-Johnson (C- OREG), Kamari Lassiter (CB- UGA)

Round 3- Zach Frazier | C | West Virginia

After the Kendrick Green debacle, the Steelers needed stability at the center position, and Mason Cole provided that in the short-term. I think that, while it is likely time to move on from Cole, we should recognize Cole for bringing to the table exactly what the Steelers needed when they signed him. He was a great value signing just one year ago, and his contributions to the Black and Gold are appreciated. Having said all that, his play has worsened as the season has progressed, making an upgrade at center near the top of the list of priorities this offseason.

Frazier may not have the athleticism and upside of a Van Pran, but he is a grinder. A dominant wrestling champion in high school, Frazier transferred his abilities to the gridiron in college, spending time at both guard and center during his time at West Viriginia and providing stable play week in and week out. Arm length will be an important measurement for him, but in a draft with only a few high-profile center prospects, Frazier has a great opportunity to make his name known in the coming months.

Also considered: Junior Colson (LB- MICH), Ainias Smith (WR- TEX A&M)

What are your thoughts on the Steelers selections? Which positions do you see the Steelers prioritizing in the draft? Be sure to light up the comment section below with your thoughts on this and all things NFL Draft!