NFL Mock Draft: Steelers protect Kenny Pickett in 7-round 2023 projection

Gervarrius Owens’ college play suggests great value for the Steelers

The Steelers will have a long wait after the fourth round as they don’t have any picks in Rounds 5 or 6, which brings us to the final round of the draft.

Pittsburgh obviously has one superstar at safety in Minkah Fitzpatrick but they were scrambling for depth at the position this offseason, evidenced by signing Kazee and Neal, two players who have played well at times but have also been terribly inconsistent. That’s why the Steelers would be wise to look to add youth and depth for the future at the position and Gervarrius Owens is a potential sleeper who could offer both immediate and long-term value.

The Houston standout graded out as one of the top safeties in the country in 2022 in terms of coverage, which is where he thrives. With good movement skills and coverage instincts to go with a solid frame, he thrives in that role, which might allow him to move down and play the nickel in some spots. The issue is his suspect run defense but, to get a player with his cover skills in the seventh round could be valuable.

Steelers can find a potential steal at CB with Alex Austin

There is nothing spectacular about Oregon State product Alex Austin. His testing numbers won’t blow anyone away, his 6-foot-1 frame is good but not spectacular, the same of which is true for his weight. But the one thing that stands out about the Beavers cornerback is that he does everything on the football field well, though not at an elite level.

Austin is a clearly well-coached and highly disciplined player who most often plays within himself, making him a solid run defender and tackler on the outside and a decent player in coverage. For a position where the Steelers need depth and with the potential of Austin as a special teamer, this would be a wise final selection in the draft.

Round 1 | Round 2 | Rounds 3-4