:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/32704467/20131017_kkt_bc2_569.0.jpg)
We believe the best way to build a football team through the draft is to select players, not positions. The subgroup needs to be addressed, however, and we've tried to mix the two philosophies together to drill down the contenders for the 15th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft
We're eliminating quarterback, running back, interior offensive line, safety and anyone who's primary function is to kick the ball.
Outside of that, the remaining positions are considered, to varying degrees, open for the team to select in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
Previous:
Outside linebacker
Offensive tackle
Wide receiver
Defensive line
At No. 1, cornerback
It's the obvious pick - the team without a contributor signed past the 2015 season. William Gay is the only player who's under contract after this year, and for as solid as he was in 2013, they'll likely need some help on the other side of the field at some point.
Why the position needs to be addressed
It's a simple question of depth: the Steelers need some, and not only is the first round likely to be tagged with the first cornerback they've taken there since 1997, but it's a solid bet they walk away from this draft with two cornerbacks.
Who are the candidates?
Michigan State cornerback Darqueze Dennard and Virgina Tech's Kyle Fuller have emerged as the favorites overall, with Oklahoma State's Justin Gilbert and Ohio State's Bradley Roby grabbing also-ran votes. Trade-down target Jason Verrett is an outstanding cornerback who, if two inches taller, could compete for a low-teens pick in his own right.
The Steelers can walk out of this draft with at least one good cornerback, and odds are, it'll be the one they take in the first round.