5 players Steelers should draft in the first round

The Steelers need to find Ben Roethlisberger’s successor this offseason. That could lead Pittsburgh to go quarterback in Round 1 of this year’s NFL Draft. 

It may not be impossible to win in the modern NFL without a quality starting quarterback, but it certainly raises the degree of difficulty for the rest of the roster. That’s why the Steelers will do everything possible to land a high-level successor for Ben Roethlisberger this offseason.

Pittsburgh will take a look at trade options and a few intriguing guys available in free agency, but the odds strongly favor them acquiring a new quarterback via the draft. The Steelers currently own the No. 20 overall selection but there’s a general feeling that Mike Tomlin and the team’s brain trust might be willing to move up if they fall in love with a specific quarterback.

Cornerback is also a need for Pittsburgh, but the majority of the prospects on this list will throw the ball for a living rather than try to intercept it.

5. Matt Corral

Corral isn’t doing much at the Combine due to an injury he suffered in Ole Miss’ bowl game. That isn’t doing anything to quell scouts’ concerns about his lack of size and physicality. The drawback to him as a prospect is that he doesn’t have the body type to take the pounding required in the NFL.

Everything else about his college tape looks well above average. He’s an above-average passer who can get the ball out via a variety of arm slots. Add in his exceptional mobility as a runner and it’s easy to see why NFL scouts are intrigued.

If the Steelers stick at No. 20 they will give Corral a lot of consideration. He’s got a high variance as a prospect but his high ceiling could make him a steal towards the end of Round 1.