Rob Rang of NFL Draft Scout is running a series titled "Finding the Fits," with the self-stated goal "...to identify one relatively unheralded player per team who appears to be a good schematic fit and, therefore, more likely to be a surprise contributor early in his pro career."
His pick for the Steelers is outside linebacker Jarvis Jones.
While it's difficult to determine how exactly Jones is "unheralded," the idea of him being a good schematic fit is likely part of the reason why the Steelers selected him with the 17th overall pick.
Still, Rang considers Jones to be a "perfect schematic fit" in Dick LeBeau's defense, and, writes Rang, "don't be surprised when he contends for Defensive Rookie of the Year honors while racking up double-digit sacks."
Bold statement. Fun to read, too.
Rang also notes the receiving ability of second round pick Le'Veon Bell and third round pick Markus Wheaton, noting Bell "a much more elusive back than his size would indicate," and Wheaton "brings speed, elusiveness and surprising physicality as a run blocker."
Even more fun to read.
He even mentions "nose guards Omar Hunter and Anthony Rashad White are among a handful of intriguing undrafted free agents who could carve out a niche on this squad, providing further evidence that Pittsburgh's 2013 draft class could be a return to the Steelers Way."
White has been placed on injured reserve, but that pales in comparison to the quality reviews from this rookie class.
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