Safety Jimmie Ward (Buffalo), running back Tre Mason (Tennessee) and wide receiver Allen Robinson (Giants), fine players, all. None the BTSC Draft Committee was interested in with the 46th pick in the SBN Bloggers Mock Draft.
The Rams and Lions select at 9 a.m. and noon, today, respectively, and the Steelers are slated to unveil their pick at 3 p.m. ET.
After careful deliberation, the Committee has narrowed it down to defensive tackle Louis Nix, wide receiver Donte Moncrief and cornerback Phillip Gaines.
Argument for Nix
He's a prototypical nose tackle, with ideal size and good athleticism. While he may not start from Day 1, he can fill in at the nose in certain passing down subpackages, leaving both Steve McLendon and Cameron Heyward free to rush from either the edge or alongside Nix, who can hold the center of the line to prevent a passer's escape.
Argument for Moncrief
Great size and athleticism for a receiver, great initial acceleration and burst off the line of scrimmage. Needs some work on his route-running (like nearly every receiver prospect), but his ability to stretch the field would provide immediate value. Still coming into his own as a receiver, though, and has great potential.
Argument for Gaines
Some of the best ball instincts we saw among the cornerback prospects this year. Makes plays on the ball and has great cover skills. A great fit with a zone defense; good vision and intelligence at the position. Needs to put on some weight, and while he's a willing tackler, he's not the best tackler. Very high ceiling.
The Steelers are on the clock today, weigh in on your choice and stick around for the announcement at 3 p.m. ET.