New mock draft has Steelers going with a high upside non-QB offensive player
The latest mock draft from Pro Football Network's Aaron Wilson has the Pittsburgh Steelers going offense in the first round. Based on the offseason so far, you'd think that would mean Pittsburgh taking a quarterback. Wilson, however, has the Steelers going in a different direction. The NFL reporter has Pittsburgh selecting Alabama wide receiver Jameson […]
The latest mock draft from Pro Football Network's Aaron Wilson has the Pittsburgh Steelers going offense in the first round.
Based on the offseason so far, you'd think that would mean Pittsburgh taking a quarterback.
Wilson, however, has the Steelers going in a different direction. The NFL reporter has Pittsburgh selecting Alabama wide receiver Jameson Williams with the No. 20 overall pick.
From PFN:
Rather than reach for Matt Corral, the Steelers are better off waiting for the right quarterback and investing in their receiving corps with a player who will be great once he’s healthy.
Excerpt from Jameson Williams’ NFL Scouting Report: Williams is uncommonly explosive out of his stance, and he has legitimate game-breaking speed in space. His long, energetic strides are absurdly efficient, and he can gain separation with his elite acceleration alone. Williams is very dangerous when schemed into space, but he also has the skill set to create space on his own.
This is certainly an interesting selection. Williams is probably the best wide receiver in the draft, but he's recovering from a torn ACL that he suffered in the College Football Playoff championship game against the Georgia Bulldogs in January.
That means Williams likely won't be ready to go when the 2022 season starts. But he's still a good investment, considering he's the total package as a wide receiver — elite speed, great route runner, and good after the catch.
If the Steelers take Williams in the first round, it could signal that the franchise isn't committed to extending wide receiver Diontae Johnson, who is entering the final season of his rookie contract.
Pittsburgh will have plenty of options in the first round, depending on how the draft shakes out. Selecting Williams in the first round isn't what I expect the Steelers to do, but I can see why it would make sense for Pittsburgh to consider the dynamic wide receiver.
Featured image via Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports
