Pittsburgh Steelers full 2021 NFL mock draft
By Nick Villano
Round 2
Scouting Report. Alabama. Alex Leatherwood. 55. player. Pick Analysis. OT. 55
The Steelers are going to be desperate for offensive line help. Not only are they likely losing Villanueva, but Maurkice Pouncey retired and Zach Banner is a free agent. The Steelers will need help on the offensive line, and taking someone who could be the tackle of the future in the second round is a no-brainer.
Alex Leatherwood would be the perfect pick if he falls to 55. Again, the Steelers could decide to trade up and take him just to make sure they get their guy. Leatherwood is great in pass protection as a left tackle for the best team in the country. He needs some help in the run game, as his physicality isn’t where it needs to be, but he’s able to keep the quarterback upright. That’s the most important thing in 2021.
He’s nearly 6-foot-6 and north of 310 pounds. Leatherwood is extremely quick on his feet, especially based on his size. His ability to stop blitzing linebackers and safeties makes him a special commodity in the second round. Going into last season, there were some that thought he was going in the first round, but now it looks like the Steelers could have a first-round talent on their hands.
He also played guard during his sophomore year with Alabama, so if the Steelers wanted to sign a veteran to take over for Villanueva, then Leatherwood can develop on the inside, where the Steelers also need help.