5 players Steelers should draft in the first round

2. Rashod Bateman

Bateman is flying somewhat under the radar in Round 1 due to the quality of receivers expected to go in the top-10. The Steelers could easily decide he’s too good of a value to pass up if he slips all the way down to No. 24.

He’s a particularly great fit for Pittsburgh if Smith-Schuster’s price tag in free agency exceeds the team’s spending power. Bateman is a legitimate 6-foot-2 wide receiver who still possesses above-average speed for a player who lines up on the outside.

Perhaps more importantly, Bateman also has the right combination of toughness and route-running acumen to thrive with the Steelers. He does an excellent job creating separation with his smooth breaks and once he manages that the opposing defensive back has no chance to stop him.

Anytime a team can land a potential Pro Bowler at No. 24 it should grade out as a very valuable selection. Bateman has that kind of ability and would fit the Steelers’ offensive system perfectly.