Steelers 7-round 2023 NFL mock draft after Allen Robinson trade
South Carolina. Cam Smith. 2. player. Pick Analysis. CB. 55. Scouting Report
Steelers need Cam Smith with the Chase Claypool pick to help the secondary
Though Pittsburgh has an All-Pro in Minkah Fitzpatrick and signed veteran Patrick Peterson this offseason, the secondary as a whole needs some work. That’s where landing a player like Cam Smith with the pick from Chicago in the Chase Claypool deal would be a great fit.
If you just watch press-man technique, ball skills and instincts, Smith might be an easy first-round pick. He lacks elite athleticism, though, which is clearly the biggest knock on him as he checks every other box. With that said, he’s quick and crafty and could be a valuable asset as a hybrid slot/safety in the defensive back room.
The Steelers are currently lacking a high-end player to play that sort of role and, though it might be slightly rich to take him with the 32nd pick, Smith will make this defense decidedly better.
Scouting Report. Washington State. Daiyan Henley. Pick Analysis. LB. 2. player. 55
Daiyan Henley can fill a key void in the Steelers linebacker room
Daiyan Henley is one of the most unique players in the 2023 draft because of how he got to this point. The Wazzu product is a converted wide receiver playing linebacker but, as such, he brings a unique skill set to the table.
At just 225 pounds, Henley isn’t going to be a traditional linebacker who attacks downhill. However, his offensive background clearly has molded his instincts as a coverage player, where he excels, and at making plays in space. He’s a sure tackler, despite his size, and can be elite and versatile when dropping into coverage.
Henley would fit perfectly in a rotation with Cole Holcomb and Elandon Roberts as a coverage backer who can offer plus defending in the right run fits and be a nice player on special teams early too.