Picking the best Round 1 draft target for the Pittsburgh Steelers ahead of 2024 NFL Free Agency

The NFL Draft is fast approaching and the Pittsburgh Steelers will have their hands full with big decisions over the coming weeks.  But prior to that, Pittsburgh will have to navigate free agency and decide who goes, who stays, and who's coming in.  So before things get going in March, here are the pre-free agency […]

Rob Gregson NFL News Writer
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Nov 11, 2023; Athens, Georgia, USA; Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver Ladd McConkey (84) celebrates after a touchdown with offensive lineman Amarius Mims (65) against the Mississippi Rebels in the first quarter at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

The NFL Draft is fast approaching and the Pittsburgh Steelers will have their hands full with big decisions over the coming weeks. 

But prior to that, Pittsburgh will have to navigate free agency and decide who goes, who stays, and who's coming in. 

So before things get going in March, here are the pre-free agency draft targets for Pittsburgh, starting in round one:

Pittsburgh Steelers Round 1 Draft Fit, Pre-Free Agency: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

If this feels like Deja Vu, then you're not alone, as Pittsburgh's first-round pick from last year's draft was also a former Georgia Bulldog and an offensive tackle, via Broderick Jones. And similar to Broderick Jones last year, Mims is a relatively raw player, but has arguably the highest upside in the draft when talking to those in the know:

Unbelievable athlete. Looks like he was built in a lab. Has natural power. Knee bend and foot quickness are great for his size. Tape was phenomenal against Ohio State in the playoff as a sophomore. If he stayed healthy this season he would have put himself in the top 10 conversation. Upside is higher than Alt and Fashanu. Getting a discount because of lack of playing time, but experience is big for offensive tackles. -Anonymous Scout

Well, if that "discount" happens to make it's way to the 20th overall pick, Pittsburgh should cash that in without hesitation, moving Broderick Jones back to his natural side at left tackle, and setting themselves up for a decade plus at the tackle position.