NFL Mock Draft: Steelers 7-round 2023 projection to give Kenny Pickett a real chance
player. LB. Arkansas. Drew Sanders. 2. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. 55
Drew Sanders would be a massive asset for the Steelers lacking LB room
Not all that long ago, the Steelers thought they were answering the inside linebacker spot for the long term when they traded up to draft Devin Bush. But as the Michigan product is set to become a free agent this offseason, it’s become clear that Pittsburgh missed on that selection.
That has now put the defense in a tough position. Taking a flier on Myles Jack turned out well but, in addition to Bush leaving, Robert Spillane could be gone as well. And in any case, it was clear throughout the 2022 season that this group seriously needed an upgrade. That’s what Drew Sanders could be beside Jack.
He converted to an off-ball linebacker after transferring from Alabama to Arkansas and the 6-foot-5, 232-pounder is extremely talented and versatile. He might not be the most athletic, but he has plenty of juice and a high IQ for filling lanes and taking tackling angles. With his ability to cover well on top of that, he’d be a home-run pick with the selection from the Bears in the Chase Claypool trade.
Emmanuel Forbes. 2. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. 55. CB. Mississippi State
The Steelers getting CB depth is a must and Emmanuel Forbes is a phenomenal option
Another area of the defense that needs to upgrade in order to put Pickett and the offense in better positions moving forward — and really one that has needed help for a while — is at cornerback. This is a team that started Levi Wallace much of the year, who was fine but should probably not be a starting corner for any defense that wants to be successful. Emmanuel Forbes would represent a chance to step up.
Forbes is a big slight-framed but you can’t argue with his ball production over three years as a starter with Mississippi State. He finished his college career with 14 interceptions and nearly 20 pass breakups as well. He’s a phenomenal coverage player and someone who just makes plays in the secondary. That’s a force the Steelers haven’t had in quite some time and getting him in the middle of the second round would be a huge plus for the franchise.