Despite of drafting defensive players in the first round the past two years, it seems likely the Steelers will once again focus on defense with the 22nd selection of the upcoming NFL draft that begins on April 30. Assuming the Steelers look to bolster their defense with that pick, the question becomes who do they select?
The 2015 draft class is certainly not short on defensive talent worthy of a first round grade, and it’s possible the Steelers could select a pass rushing outside linebacker, a defensive tackle or the position that seems to be the biggest need, cornerback. The Steelers are known to go against conventional wisdom and take players that are seemingly not on the radar with many Steeler fans.
This year might not be any different.
“With the 22nd pick of the first round, the Pittsburgh Steelers select…”
Landon Collins, strong safety, University of Alabama:
Though many fans might be disappointed to see the Steelers pass on a cornerback, the reality might be that only one cornerback, Michigan State’s Trae Waynes is worthy of being picked so early. Other top prospects at the position such as Jalen Collins, Marcus Peters and Kevin Johnson, may or may not be there when the Steelers pick, and some would argue that the value of those players does not fit where the Steelers pick.
Collins, a hard-nosed strong safety who was a first team All-American last season, fits another need for the Steelers. Collins is a smart, instinctive player who started 23 games for the Crimson Tide. Under the tutelage of Nick Saban, Collins developed into the top safety in college football, and he’s a player that even in the Steelers complicated schemes, could vie for immediate playing time as a rookie.
Collins greatest strengths are his ability to aggressively support the against the run and is extremely quick in space. Collins is also more than capable in coverage, and though he’s not especially tall (six-foot, 228 pounds) Collins seemed to be able to handle bigger tight ends in college without any noticeable issues. Ran a 4.53 at the NFL combine, and is a plus athlete that looks the part when he’s on the field. Collins thrived as a special teams player, and should make an immediate impact in the third phase.
It’s clear after last season that the decision to sign free agent Mike Mitchell was a big mistake, and all signs point to Troy Polamalu either retiring or being released before the season begins. This is certainly going to be the year to determine if Shamarko Thomas is going to be a starter for the Steelers moving forward. In a perfect world, the athletic Thomas will transition to free safety, allowing Collins to play a similar role that Polamalu did at an All-Pro level for the better part of a decade.
It’s a very thin safety class, so if the Steelers do want to upgrade the position, this would be the time. There a ton of cornerbacks that are worthy of selection in the second round and beyond, something the Steelers are acutely aware of.
Though it’s possible the Steelers might take Johnson or Peters, something tells me Collins is going to be the selection. If you looking for a dark horse pick, keep an eye on Florida State defensive tackle Eddie Goldman or if he slips, Texas defensive tackle Malcom Brown, as the Steelers really like both.
