The folks over at Pro Football Focus put together a five-round mock draft for 2024 and we wanted to break down the picks for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh is preparing to take on the Buffalo Bills this weekend in the Wild Card round of the playoffs but we already have an eye on the offseason and the continued rebuild of this roster.
First round - S Kamren Kinchens, Miami
We love Kinchens. He’s a perfect athlete to pair up with Minkah Fitzpatrick in the defensive backfield. Polished technique, ideal size and athleticism.
Second round - CB D.J. James, Auburn
This feels early for James who has a very slight build and I question his ability to hold up to the physicality of the NFL.
Third round - C Sedrick Van Pran, Georgia
The Steelers found Broderick Jones at Georgia last year and we’d love to see them go back for their new starting center.
Fourth round - CB Max Melton
Getting Melton in the fourth round just raises more questions about the pick of James in the second round. Melton is a great zone cornerback and a nice fit for the Steelers defense.
FIfth round - WR Ricky Pearsall, Florida
Breakdown
Overall, this mock draft checks a lot of boxes for the Steelers. Getting a safety, cornerback and center hits several big offseason needs. But drafting James in the second round is less than ideal, especially when they pick up Max Melton later. Give me a linebacker or offensive tackle in the second round instead and this mock would be pretty ideal.