/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48950251/usa-today-8221424.0.jpg)
Ask a group of fans who put their support behind the Pittsburgh Steelers which position they should target in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft and they will list a myriad of defensive positions before even talking about an offensive position.
Cornerback, safety, defensive line, edge rusher...
All would be listed above any position on the offensive side of the ball, but according to NFL.com's draft expert Mike Mayock, the tight end position could be the best fit for the Steelers when they make their first round selection at No. 25 in this draft.
Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will be without one of his best targets in 2016 with the retirement of tight end Heath Miller. Addressing that void in the first round isn't out of the realm of possibility for GM Kevin Colbert.
"If they were going to take one at No. 25, it would have to be the kid from Arkansas, Hunter Henry. Do I think it's too early? Not necessarily. I think the kid could step in, he can play in line, he can flex, he can block, and he's a very good pass receiver. He's a late-one to mid-two, and I think he would fit with what Pittsburgh likes to do," Mayock said.
Would the first round be too early to draft a tight end? Mayock doesn't think so, and looking at how the chips may fall wouldn't surprise me either. If the Steelers could draft a player like Henry, he would be able to walk onto the field at Latrobe, PA and be a starter, which is what the Steelers need out of the 2016 Draft. Sure, it would be nice to get that starter on defense, but it all depends on what takes place, and who is available, when it is the Steelers' turn to make their draft pick.
To be honest, the Steelers have several options in the first round, and all positions would be justified. Clearly there are holes on defense, but also on offense at tight end, guard and possibly tackle. Mayock thinks the Steelers and a tight end could be a good fit, and fans should realize that isn't out of the realm of possibility.