HSS Final 2009 Steelers Full Mock Draft for BTSC
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 11, 2009 8:03 AM EDT
62 comments
Once again a fine effort from one of BTSC's younger brethren. Kudos to him for the well thought out and written mock. Discuss. - Blitz-
Well, as the Pro Days and workouts wind down and as the draft draws near, we can only speculate what could possibly being going through the minds of Mike Tomlin, Kevin Colbert, and the rest of the Steelers Front Office; Here's my attempt at trying to enlighten you...
(Please Don't hurt me Danny Sepulveda)
via lp.imageg.net
1st Round Pick, 32nd Overall
Alex Mack, Center University of California
Height/Weight/Age: 6'4", 311 lbs, 24 Years Old*
*All ages are referring to the player's age at the start of the season.
OK, so starting off right away with the guy I've stayed with since September, I'm gonna say we take Alex Mack at the #32 pick in the NFL draft. With a heritage of great centers such as Mansfield, Webster, Dawson, and Hartings, it's hard not to step back and wonder "What Happened?" How did we go from repeat pro-bowlers to the Sean Mahans of the NFL. For 42 years we had 4 centers fill the starting position. In the past two seasons we've had two. To end this drought, the Steelers could bring in the big man from Cal. Mack is an excellent leader, player, and competitor on and off the field. The guy is someone you want to build an offensive unit around, let alone an offensive line. At 6'4", 315lbs, Mack is a prototype Center who is a powerful run blocker, and a solid pass blocker who time and time again was acknowledged as one of the best linemen at the NCAA level-even by his opponents (see 2:00 to 2:20 in the above video). IMHO, Mack is the next pro-bowl center in the NFL.
2nd Round Pick, 64th Overall
Jamon Meredith, OL, University of South Carolina
Height/Weight/Age: 6'5", 305 lbs, 23 Years Old
Jamon Meredith; I'll admit here that this might be a stretch, but I could see JM, falling to us in the second due to some past injury problems. Call him this year's Limas Sweed, but whatever you call him, you just can't ignore what this guy brings to the table. In what I would see as an immediate upgrade at RT over Willie Colon, Meredith can also play any other offensive line position aside Center. His powerful run blocking and consistent pass protection could have him going higher, but I think that if added, Meredith could provide an immediate boost to the run game, and Big Ben's lifespan.
3rd Round Pick, 96th Overall
Mike Mickens, CB, University of Cincinnati
Height/Weight/Age: 6', 184 lbs, 22 Years Old
Aside my next pick, Mike Mickens is probably my choice for most underrated player in the draft. Most teams will look at M&M in the late 3rd, early 4th, and because of this, I think the Steelers have a great opportunity in adding a dynamic corner for a low price. What's so Dynamic about him? Oh well, 14 career INTs a tough, big hit, tackling style, and an overall consistency about the 21-soon-to-be-22 year old just gives me the idea that it'd be a great idea to add him. What drops Mickens to this position is a slower 40 time (4.57) and a recent knee injury that required surgery. Think DeShea Townsed with a better pair of hands and a better tackler. I could see him taking over for Ike in a couple of years and possibly beat out Willie Gay in a year or so. Oh and did I mention, he's a Steelers fan.
4th Round Pick, 132 Overall
Mike Thomas WR, University of Arizona
Height/Weight/Age:: 5'-8", 195 lbs, 22 Years Old
Say hello to our Steve Smith/Nate Washington or something in between. At 5'8", Mike Thomas doesn't seem the type to pose any sort of threat to today's NFL DB's but damn, the athleticism on this kid is incredible. At the combine, Wallace posted a 4.40 time even, and put up a 40" vertical. In addition to warranting my interest, the Steelers have already had him visit Pittsburgh. Thomas in many ways reminds me of the recently departed Nate Washington. He's quick, he's got the jumping ability, he's tough, and maybe he doesn't have the most consistent hands in the world, but Washington proved that that isn't always necessary as a slot receiver, which leads me to my next point. Not only is Thomas a deep threat, but he's a nice fit to line up in the slot at the number 4 receiver position and develop from there. Now, I'm not expecting him to be Santonio Holmes, but I could easily see him getting to the level of Nate Washington. Plus, they found out at Arizona U this past season, that this kid can return punts and kicks. I'd be fine with taking him in the third, but the general consensus seems to be that he'll be there at the 128th overall pick.
Round 5a Pick, 168 Overall
Sammie Lee Hill, DL, Stillman University
Height/Weight/Age:: 6'4", 329 lbs, 22 Years Old
Video MIA: But here's an interview transcript.
Sammie Lee Hill is a guy that could surprise people. In his career at Stillman, Hill had 191 tackles,20 sacks, and 44.5 tackles for a loss, all from either the DE or DT tackle position. At 6'4", 328 lbs, his size alone is intimidating, and could easily fit into our 3-4 scheme. Whether or not Hill will have a legitimate impact in the NFL, I don't know, but then again who knows for any of these picks :)? But for Hill it's going to especially hard to adapt from a small school setting like Stillman, to the best of the best. Here's hoping he can.
Round 5b (Compensation) Pick 169 Overall
Frank Summers, FB, UNLV
Height/Weight/Age:: 5'-9", 241 lbs, 24 Years Old
Frank "The Tank" Summers. Man does this kid turn a few heads or what. At 5'9" 241 lbs, Frank reminds me of another player/vehicle formerly parked frequently in Pittsburgh. This guy is a perfect fit for this offense. His tough, tenacious power-running style combined with solid blocking and good hands could make him a dynamic threat out of the backfield. Previously I felt that this was too high of a position to pick Summers, but the more I see, the more I'm impressed. I mean it was the dreads that sold me, but I think a backfield of FWP, Mendy, Moore x2 (you'll see what I mean below) Tank, and Russell, would take us places.
Round 6 Pick, 205 Overall
Devin Moore, RB, University of Wyoming:
Height/Weight/Age:: 5'10", 191 lbs, 23 Years Old
Add a little more to the Moore family (sorry it's late). And no, to my knowledge, Devin Moore, is not related to Mewelde, but a more appropriate comparison would be to our own, Willie Parker. D.Moore has some pretty intense speed, even though it was projected to be in the 4.3's it ended up being in the 4.4's. Big effin' deal. The point is the guy has some speed. He's small, and evasive, and from what I gather, a very similar style of running to that of Willie Parker. The bonus is is that he can be used as a returner and a receiving-back, with good, soft hands. Whether or not he'll have the success FWP has had, I doubt it, but he could be a sleeper that would provide us with both depth and more weaponry in the return game.
Round 7a (via Tampa Bay), Pick 226 Overall
DeAndre Levy, LB, University of Wisconsin
Height/Weight/Age:: 6'3", 228 lbs, 22 Years Old
Video MIA.
DeAndre Levy is an interesting case. I know his name was brought up in some of the fanposts earlier this week, and that the Steelers seemed to be impressed with him and his speed. During his career at Wisconsin Levy played OLB, but weighing in around a whopping 230 lbs, Levy would have a hell of a time getting anything going off the edge as a rush linebacker. A more likely scenario would be him moved inside to ILB, like Lawrence Timmons. I'm not expecting much from Levy, but you never know. They don't call Pittsburgh the "Linebacker University" for nothing.
Round 7b Pick 241 Overall (aka Mr. Irrelevant)
Pat McAfee, K,University of West Virginia
Height/Weight/Age:: 6'1", 221 lbs, 23 Years Old
Ah finally, the one the only Mr. Irrelevant. Only, this man could definitely amount to more than irrelevant. Pat McAfee, the kicker from WVU, could be the future replacement to long time kicker Jeff Reed. Correct me if I'm wrong but I'm pretty sure Reed's contract is up at the end of this coming season. So if Goldly locks decides to walk, then McAfee could be a legit replacement. The guy's 6'1" 221 lbs, built like a little linebacker. In the clip above there's a clip of McAfee making a TD saving tackle on a speedy returner. That in addition to a good, consistent leg strength will catch the eye of the Front Office any day. We're always looking for kickers and punters who are willing to take down a return man. Just look at Sepulveda.
Plus:
Need I say Anything Else?
-HSS
Sources Utilized & Acknowledgments:
All custom Jerseys via lp.imageg.net
Alex Mack via www.nationalchamps.net
Jamon Meredith via media.scout.com
Mike Mickens via cache.daylife.com
Mike Thomas via images.athlonsports.com
Roy Miller via www.40acressports.com
Sammie Lee Hill via www.steelersgab.com
Frank Summers via graphics.fansonly.com
Devin Moore via www.eteamz.com
DeAndre Levy via media.scout.com
Pat McAfee via www.dailymail.com
Pat McAfee #2 via media.scout.com
Jeff Reed via 2.bp.blogspot.com
www.rotoworld.com for age
www.wikipedia.org for Sammie Lee Hill's age
And of course Youtube for all it's videos.
www.nfl.com and www.espn.com for ages, sizes, and career stats.
Special Thanks to Draftguysdotcom youtube users for their excellent coverage of draft prospects.
http://www.nfldraftblitz.com/sammieleehillinterview.htm for Sammie Lee Hill Intereview.
Also acknowledgments to WalterFootball for some of the projected draft stock Lindy's Pro Football Draft Magazine, and Fanball.com's Pro Football '09 Draft Preview Magazine, for sizes, interviews, and some stats.
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Gret Draft HSS
I agree with every pick. And that’s cool how you put their names on a Steelers Jersey. I’d say Terrence Taylor instead of Hill. Hill had good numbers, but he want to a school I’ve never even heard of. Also, what about a punter in the 7th. Reed’s still good for now. Besides that, great draft. I am a little curious if Mickens is reliable instead of a CB in the 1st.
When we hit you, you don't get up. When you hit us, we get up laughing.
by air holmes on Apr 11, 2009 8:39 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
HSS never said Reed was bad. He said Reed’s contract was up and this was insurance, valid enough.
Don't worry about the haters. Haters only hate.
by steelguy99 on Apr 11, 2009 9:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
1 mor thing
Thomas may not be a Fitz, but he’s a Chris Johnson WR. He just burns by you.
When we hit you, you don't get up. When you hit us, we get up laughing.
by air holmes on Apr 11, 2009 8:40 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Good draft
I agree with everything except Devin Moore and McAfee. We’re taking at most 1 running back / fullback this draft, so if we take Summers we won’t take Moore. We’re too deep at running back and have too many other needs. I think we go for a project d or o-lineman with the 6th pick.
And with Tomlin’s emphasis on ST and Reed’s great, clutch kicking from the past few years, I’d see the Steelers locking him up. The off the field stuff isn’t a huge concern, but it might deflate his value on the open market – and I bet he would want to stay anyway – so a reasonable deal will get done.
by syrsteelerfan on Apr 11, 2009 9:26 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think I much prefer datruth’s draft. I wouldn’t be unhappy if the OL was addressed in the first two rounds, but only drafting one guy in the 5th round for the defensive line is tough. Sammie may indeed be the heir apparent to Hampton (though he may need to add some bulk for his high frame) but I question his ability to play 2-gap in the NFL. Chris Hoke has worked out exceptionally well but there is a reason that most dominant NTs in the NFL are drafted high.
We are okay if Keisel goes down but when A. Smith is out our game falls apart. I’d like to see at least two guys drafted for the DL this year (even if they are late rounders). Someone to alternate with Keisel and be the successor to A.Smith, and someone to hopefully be able to pick up the mantle from Hampton. If we have a developing NT this year they can alternate with Hokey next year and hopefully become dominant, but that is by no means a sure thing in this league. If we draft only one DL this year and he is a bust, things start to look very, very scary next year. Hedge our bets and draft two so we have some fresh meat.
Don't worry about the haters. Haters only hate.
by steelguy99 on Apr 11, 2009 9:57 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
Hill is an interesting project as both a DE and NT but a second DL draftee with more of a big college background would be preferable to a second RB or a kicker. Unless the Steelers want to unload Reed for his off-field misadventures, drafting a kicker is a waste of a draft pick, even if it is a late one. Otherwise those are some pretty solid picks. Mack could play guard for a year before taking over from Hartwig. Meredith would compete at either RG or RT almost immediately and fit in anywhere on the line down the road, perhaps even LT. Mickens is a good prospect. I doubt Mike Thomas lasts till the fourth round but would be great value there. Great research HSS.
by steeler.lifer on Apr 11, 2009 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
agreed
regarding the second RB and kicker.
Somebody like Ra’Shon Harris or Nader Abdallah are 7th round DT propsects who would convert to DE for us. Lots of good OG and developmental OT prospects are available later as well.
by Steely McSmash on Apr 11, 2009 1:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Excellent work on this mock.
The jerseys and you tube additions are well done, hard to beat.
I agree with the picks, but the Round 6 pick for a RB might be misplaced. Another DL might be warranted here.
by StinkBomb on Apr 11, 2009 10:06 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
jerseys are cool but...
- won’t be seen on the field for a while,
by Steely McSmash on Apr 11, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I doubt number 75 gets handed out anytime soon either.
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Apr 11, 2009 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Idk if the Steelers work like that
They’ve only retired one number in there history, and I know they like to give certain numbers a break, but I think that they’ll have to start using them soon as they’re running out of numbers.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 11, 2009 8:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
True
They’ve only retired one number in history, but I seriously doubt they’ll give out number 75 for another 50 years.
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Apr 12, 2009 5:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yea the more I think about it
How many numbers of Steeler greats do you see in commission any more.
75-Joe Greene, 12 Terry Bradshaw, 32 Franco Harris, 88 Swann, 58 Lambert, 59 Ham, 47 Blount, to name a few that haven’t been seen in a while. I think it’s because the Steeler’s FO, knows that if you give a player that number, no matter what the position or what the experience, that guy we’ll be compared the previous holder of the respective number.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 12, 2009 10:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow!
Very well put together, however, I can’t agree with Moore and another kicker. I would have also liked to see the DL addressed with another player either DE or DT. Other than that good job!
by steelersrock08 on Apr 11, 2009 12:31 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Good
However there is no way we are drafting a kicker. Also why does everyone think he need a fullback? We have Davis and McHugh they are good enough.
Mickens is an excellent choice for the third round. I hope he falls to us. It would be a big steal.
by jonesjeffum on Apr 11, 2009 12:38 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Summers is more thatn just a FB.
I like Carey Davis cause he seems to be a real class act, but on the field he really has limited impact. Summers can double as a RB and just is a punishing runner.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 11, 2009 8:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can't complain much
But two RB(FB)‘s? I can see one, and Summers sounds good, but have we forgotten Mendenhall? McHugh, with as much emphasis as we’ve been putting on that particular position, seems to be all the FB we need.
I don’t think shoring up another kicker is a bad idea. Everyone loves Reed, with reason, but with one year left, the money could ask for, his age, and let’s not forget his antics (in the front office’s eyes) could easily mean his era is coming to an end. You might be on to something there.
by jason m on Apr 11, 2009 1:15 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Not forgetting Mendenhall
I think we haven’t even got a taste of his potential, but the best running teams have not just a duo, but a trio of capable running backs. The Giants last year had Jacobs, Ward (now in Tampa), and Bradshaw, the Ravens had McGahee (spelling), McClain, and Rice, and the Cowboys have Barber, Jones, and the emergence now of Choice. I understand that we have that trio in Parker, seemingly Mendenhall, and Moore, but Parker is getting older and his contract will be up after this year, and depending on his 2009 performance in contrast with Mendenhall and Moore’s could mean that he is expendable. Adding Summers and Moore would give us not only depth, but also options for another runner.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 11, 2009 8:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s not like G. Russel is a scrub.
Don't worry about the haters. Haters only hate.
by steelguy99 on Apr 12, 2009 10:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is true
But all I’m saying is, is that the addition of both Summers and Moore would give more options @ RB. I’m not expecting all of them to make the team. I think given a choice between Summers and Moore, I’d take Summers in an instant.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 12, 2009 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Keep Moore
Mewelde proved himself as an excellent receiver out of the backfield, with a great nose for the first down marker, I agree with drafting a huge RB/FB that can pave the way for Fast Willie and Mendenhall. This draft is crucial in getting depth on the defensive line and shoring up the O line, and hopefully getting a solid CB and WR. No more K, P, or QB’s selected hopefully
by BlackandGoldSSgt on Apr 15, 2009 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I meant Devin Moore
I agree with you on keeping Mewelde Moore, he’s a complete back who just flay out plays.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 15, 2009 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not a problem.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 15, 2009 9:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Russell released
Gary got released today, didn’t see that one coming, onder what they have in mind
by BlackandGoldSSgt on Apr 16, 2009 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Frank Summers maybe?
I don’t know, my thoughts are that it was a cap casualty after the Batch signing, or they find FWP, Mendy, and M&M sufficient. Hell, I would. Mendenhall has got to step up and be the guy on 3rd and short now though. Good luck Gary Russell.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 17, 2009 10:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
A good mock draft; well-reasoned throughout. I agree with the above comments that Devin Moore might not be the best pick, though. There’s already a bit of a backfield jam between FWP, Medenhall and Mewelde Moore, and keep free-agent signing Stefan Logan in mind as well; he’s very much another small, quick RB in the mould of FWP. Love the Mickens and Thomas picks though, and I think Summers could be a good one as well.
Queen's Journal Sports Editor.
Personal sports blog at www.sportingmadness.blogspot.com.
Contributing writer at Out of Left Field: www.neatesager.blogspot.com.
by Andrew Bucholtz on Apr 11, 2009 2:23 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Agree with most comments
This was a very good, well laid out post. And, I can’t argue strongly against most of the picks, but I agree that two RBs seems unlikely, and I doubt we draft a kicker. Most teams don’t worry about replacing their kicker until he’s gone. I see no way that we draft a guy for to hold an additional kicker on the roster (or even practice squad) for a whole year. It’s possible that we take him there if it’s the last pick in draft and we have him kicking through the pre-season. If he makes the team, though, I think that means we let Reed go this year.
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Apr 11, 2009 3:40 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Mack in the 1st
I still think this is a very solid pick. He can play guard and pulls well. His size is prototypical. He mauls in the run, is respectable in the pass, has leadership qualities, commited 2 penalties all of last year in over 800 snaps. The one knock I have against him that Mike Maycock pointed out is that on tape he just ends up on the ground too often and it’s definitely true. Still, I think this guy has the heart of a Steeler and would end up as a great addition for years to come. He was the only center that gave competition to BJ Raji in the Senior Bowl. I don’t see Unger or Woods holding up againt Ngata and Rodgers the way Mack could, which is why I think he’s the best interior lineman pick for us.
by BallsofSteel on Apr 11, 2009 5:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
We need a dominant player on the line at some point, and that is most likely to come from the 1st round.
We have no one on the line that can mug the opposing team. The steelers need to get nasty up front.
Don't worry about the haters. Haters only hate.
by steelguy99 on Apr 11, 2009 6:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
DeAndre Levy
I think we had another LB that wore 59…
by 36chambers on Apr 11, 2009 7:34 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
You mean now?
I don’t think so but I could be wrong.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 11, 2009 8:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
#59
I checked the rosters dating back to 1990 out of shear interest, could not find anyone with #59, I may have missed something though
by BlackandGoldSSgt on Apr 15, 2009 6:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well done
As always, impressively well written, reasoned, and produced. Like others, I’m not sure about the second rb and the kicker, but I’d love for things to pan out this way.
Since I’ve been in AZ, I’ve been a fan of Mike Thomas, and I think he his potential is impressive. He’d (as Washington did) greatly benefit from the attention that must be paid Holmes and Ward (and hopefully Sweed). Remember that great catch in run that Holmes had in the playoffs when he took it like 60 yards after Ben extended the play? I think that shows how valuable a WR with return skills is with Ben’s tendencies.
by phxsteeler on Apr 11, 2009 9:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Well here's a question for you
I said in the post that I’d be fine taking Thomas in the 3rd, but it is believed that he could be available in the 4th. Do you think that’s realistic?
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 11, 2009 11:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not enough of a draft guy to answer with any kind of accuracy. Crazier things have happened though.
by phxsteeler on Apr 12, 2009 1:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unlikely for end of fourth round
Thomas is generally rated a third rounder, but picking late is the price the Steelers pay for winning the Super Bowl. Hard to see him slipping all the way to No. 132 or even to the end of the third round. If the Steelers want him, they might have to use their second-round pick or trade up in the third round. Thomas is rated No. 63 overall by NFL Draft Scout. He is very similar physically to Eddie Royal, who climbed from mid-round draft status in his senior year to being the 42nd overall pick in 08 and then had a fantastic rookie NFL season. They’re about the same size and speed, possessing good hands and return ability.
by steeler.lifer on Apr 12, 2009 10:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hmmmm
Well here’s hoping he falls to end of the third. I mean I like him a lot but he’s not worth a second round pick. If we had to chose between Mickens and Thomas I might pick Thomas just because WR is a bigger need at the moment.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 12, 2009 11:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Excellent
Excellent point, watching Big Baby and Ngata play against us they blew up the middle numerous times, although Rodgers is disgruntled with Mangini and wants to be traded, so hopefully that happens
by BlackandGoldSSgt on Apr 15, 2009 6:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm still loving the similarities between McAfee and Reed's hair.
I don’t think that’s a coincidence either. When it come to football, West Virginia seems to be an extension of Western PA. I wouldn’t be surprised at all if McAfee was influenced by Reed.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 11, 2009 11:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Mack??
I love him, he should become our 10-time pro-bowler C BUT, this class is so deep on C that we could get Shipley in the 3rd-4th and he is a very good C!
I think we should draft a LT or a CB, these positions are so valuable nowadays, and so overpaid, that if we get a starter we would save lots of moneys, I hope we draft Britton or Oher(dreaming) as LT or Butler, Davis as CB
by SteelerBrazil on Apr 12, 2009 5:01 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I've been thinking about this a lot lately
I keep coming back to Mack at C and I feel very comfortable with it.
In our division we face two nasty NTs in Rodgers and Ngata a total of four times each year, not to mention that we should expect to go through the Patriots in the playoffs. I think for that reason Center is a position that holds greater value for the Steelers than it might for most other teams, especially as we are still very much a run between the tackles team.
Then you have to look at the other positions you could draft, CB, DL and OT. CB is fairly deep this draft, and OT has some mid-rangers that look promising. DL I honestly haven’t looked at so someone else will have to chime in here if they think that’s the better route.
Most draft analysts seem to think that this years crop of LTs don’t have anyone as good as Chris Long, but there is still a lot of talent there. By the time 32 rolls around, how many LTs are left standing? If Michael Oher falls to us Mike Tomlin will be drop kicking people on his way to the podium, but beyond that you’re looking at Eben Britton and William Beatty.
I think Beatty is a reach. His technique isn’t great, he falls over a lot, gets bad leverage, and doesn’t finish. On the video I’ve seen of him he does it enough to make me nervous. He can lock on his man and walk him around at times, but just as often I seem him getting spun out and down which is maybe too much for my tastes in round 1.
Eben Britton would probably be a better pick, but he has only played LT for a year and comes from a pass first and pass fast system in AZ. He has seen very little in the run game and some analysts say he will need to work on his mental toughness. The quick release game in Arizona may have also masked some of his weaknesses.
CB looks very deep this year but somewhat like LT, no absolutely dominant player at the position. Vontae Davis, Darius Butler, and Malcom Jenkins are going to go high. Alphonso Smith has some chance of falling to us. At that point you have to ask yourself if you think a 5’9" ballhawk is worth the risk. Watching him on video you get feelings he could emerge as some kind of Steve Smith of the cornerback position. His playmaking ability is really that good, he could be a good pick, but he could just as easily be an average pick as well.
For those reasons I think you go with the sure bet and the best player at the position (for us), an option we won’t have with most any other position on the board at pick 32. Mack is a mauler with a HUGE motor. He goes after defenders like they should be scared of him and if the whistle doesn’t blow this guy doesn’t stop. He just manhandles people from the line of scrimage to the 1st down maker, takes out 3 defenders and a time, and jumps over buildings in a single bound. He’s a leader, has great technique, prepares well, and won the 2008 Draddy Award, which means he’s pretty damn smart. He also won the Morris trophy two years in a row. What’s the Morris trophy? From Calbears.com:
The Morris Trophy, established in 1980, is a unique award given to the outstanding offensive and defensive linemen in the Pac-10, with the starting offensive linemen in the conference voting for the defensive winner and vice versa. It is truly a players’ award.
Bring in Mack, put him in competition with Kemo or Stapleton in camp and let him learn the offense his first season, then when Hartwig’s contract is up you have his replacement ready or a bargaining chip if we want to leave Mack at guard. This guy is maybe the surest thing in the draft on either side of the ball. I’ll be surprised if he isn’t a multiple pro bowler by the end of his career, no matter where he ends up.
by BallsofSteel on Apr 12, 2009 6:23 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
I agree – we can either take the best center or the fifth or sixth best tackle.
by BluegrassSteeler on Apr 12, 2009 8:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good draft HighSchool Steeler, Good comment BoS
I think this is a good shot at a mock draft. I think the decision could come down between Mack and Wood at no. 32, and I believe that the Steelers will take Eric Wood. Mike Mayock, unlike every other draft person out there, has C Eric Wood from Louisville as his number one center prospect. The reason he said is that he thinks Wood might not have all of the accolades as Mack and Unger, but he believes he is the better football player and the most physical of the three. He also said he thinks Wood projects better to guard than Mack does. Alphonso Smith is intriguing, but do you spend a first round pick on a 5’9’’ corner who ran a 4.53 at the combine?
If the Steelers do go with Wood at 32, then I believe they will need to trade up in the second round to get DT/DE Fili Maola or DE/DT Jarron Gilbert (who I believe is going in the first round).
Also, I believe that either Vontae Davis or Darius Bulter will be there for the Steelers at no. 32. I think either would be hard to turn down for the Steelers if they were available at that pick.
I think Eric Woods or Mack at no. 32 would be a safe pick for the Steelers, but I’m still for seriously considering taking a chance on Jarron Gilbert at no. 32 if he fits your system and you believe you have a coach in John Mitchell that can bring out the best in this kid. I think it is easier to get a good guard or center than it is to get a good 3-4 DE for our system.
Thoughts?
by datruth4life on Apr 13, 2009 9:48 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Interesting
I don’t think we’d ever take a shot at V.Davis, his attitude is comparable to TO’s. He was benched this season because of his crap. I would never wanna have that on the Steelers.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 13, 2009 6:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
I agree, I love Mike Mickens from Cincinnati,Darius Butler from UConn, Jairus Byrd from Oregon and Sean Smith from Utah
by BlackandGoldSSgt on Apr 13, 2009 7:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Though I can't understand why they hosted Davis for a visit.
Maybe he’s a friend of Mendenhall’s.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 17, 2009 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like
I like, think of a pair of punishing interior linemen in Big Snack and Jarron Gilbert or Maola rotating in and out, I know we run a 3-4 but Casey isn’t getting any younger. I was watching the Mack clips and love what I see, a big nasty center…just think how brutal our offense can be if we can get back to running the ball like we used to and still have the passing attack with Holmes, Hines and Heath, with hopefully Thomas;…step up this year Sweed!!!!! I loved the I formation with a big bruising fullback, ever since Arians started going to this once back nonsense we have not done well at all at running the football and we lost Mendenhall for the year when Lewis blew him up. I remember those days where if we had a lead with 5 or so minutes left it was over because we’d line up and just run every play and run the clock out.
by BlackandGoldSSgt on Apr 15, 2009 6:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Awesome
First of all, excellent mock draft, complete with the jerseys and everything, I like! Respectfully to disagree with you, on the RB, LB and K picks!:) I think we can use those picks on getting extra D line prospects. Another FB I just love is Javorskie Lane from Texas A & M, I wish we would have drafted Owen Schmitt from West Virginia last year ( I believe Seattle drafted him) I miss the days of the Critter plowing the way for our running backs, go figure he is with ‘Zona now. I totally agree our #1 pick should be one of those big centers (Mack, Wood or Unger) You look at all the great centers we have had anchoring our line in the past , Webster, Dawson and Hartings and I love this pick, especially since it is Hartwig’s last year on his contract and there are other major players with the same such as Heath, Big Snack and others. I am new to this board, and love reading all the posts. I deploy in July but will be back in time for football season luckily, and I can tell you Pittsburgh Steelers rule the roost overseas too!
by BlackandGoldSSgt on Apr 13, 2009 7:33 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Best of luck out there
Do us proud!
by BallsofSteel on Apr 13, 2009 7:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thank you!
Thank you my friend! And as always my Terrible Towel and Steelers jerseys will find their way into my bag!
by BlackandGoldSSgt on Apr 13, 2009 7:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Owen Schmitt
Born to be a Steeler, but yes, now a Seahawk. We really missed out on this guy. A while back I went to a West Virginia game, at Syracuse. We sat right next to the WVU section at the dome. I heard so many Owen Schmitt tall tales. They talked about him like a mythical figure, it was really funny. They talked about him flipping cars, biting the tops off beer cans, almost Chuck Norris type stories.
One of the true stories they told was his destructive tendencies with face masks. They told me he had a tendency to rip facemasks off of helmets in scrums after plays… in practice. Never any fights, but if you made him angry he’d grab a hold of your facemask and just rip it off your helmet.
He also broke facemasks throwing blocks in games. Something I didn’t believe until about five minutes later when it happened. Snapped it right in half. Crazy. By the way, devastating block.
Think Jon Ritchie (former Raider/ Eagle FB), bled from the bridge of his nose every game, literally.
by NYSteelersFan4 on Apr 14, 2009 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Best of luck and God Bless
My old man was a Sergeant in the Army back in the 80’s. Fort Ord anybody? But yea, I’ve thought a lot about Lane too, but I’ve heard that he’s not in the best of shape right now, and I think that we may be able to get him undrafted. Good luck over seas.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 14, 2009 11:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thank you!
I appreciate that,,
by BlackandGoldSSgt on Apr 15, 2009 6:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great Mock
Complete with player jersey’s. Good idea I wish I thought of that, high expectations… met. I like all the picks but two. Devin Moore and Deandre Levy. Though both of them could be picked, I don’t see the reasons for the HB, speed is nice and the highlights were good, but depth chart wise I don’t see the necessity. Frank Summers would have to be a HB. That bumps Moore down again. Summers is not an NFL FB. A little short, not a good enough blocker. He looks like a Najeh type HB (he was a FB in college too). Levy I don’t know too much about, but adding another MLB this year is not a huge priority (I would like to see Humpal try his hand inside but that ship has sailed), but that late why not you never know what your going to get.
by NYSteelersFan4 on Apr 14, 2009 11:27 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Yes
Yes I agree, we still have Bruce Davis who did not play much last year if at all, and we still have him and Patrick Bailey…I want to see the D line get younger and the O line get better to start things off, I am not too sure about Willie Gay as a full time starter either..
by BlackandGoldSSgt on Apr 15, 2009 6:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rumor on Yahoo: Steelers and Bills discussing possible trade for WR Roscoe Parrish
What do you guys think? He is one hell of a returner, and would be another deep threat. If we don’t have to give up too much for him I say go for it!
by BlackandGoldSSgt on Apr 20, 2009 3:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Definitely
As long as we don’t have to give up more than a 4th rounder.
It's true what they say...Even the NFL's Big Wigs hate the Steelers. On the plus side, I can now tell my future grand kids about Hines Ward and how the NFL made rules because of him. Roger Goodell, you make me sick.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Apr 24, 2009 12:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
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