NFL Network's latest mock solves Steelers biggest weakness
Daniel Jeremiah is the lead draft analyst at the NFL Network. His mock drafts are some of the best in the business, due to the fact he mocks based on conversation, over his opinion. So while it may be smokescreen season, and there's still more than a month until the draft, we're honing in on […]
Daniel Jeremiah is the lead draft analyst at the NFL Network. His mock drafts are some of the best in the business, due to the fact he mocks based on conversation, over his opinion.
So while it may be smokescreen season, and there's still more than a month until the draft, we're honing in on decision time.
Meaning, when you see his latest selection for the Steelers at 17, you may be surprised.
Broderick Jones, Tackle, Georgia
Number 59 in the video above, Jones is a left tackle that can uproot defenders in the run game and pass protect in a phone booth.
Jones doesn't only excel on the field, his measurables are off the chart. To start, he's 6'5, 311 pounds with nearly 35' arms. Those are prototype, build a bear-type of attributes from the two-time national champion.
But what's even more impressive is how well he carries his weight and moves within his frame.
Just 21 years old, there are some techniques that Jones needs to add to his pass-pro repertoire to be a considerable tackle on the left side of the line.
Easily the most needed upgrade on Pittsburgh's offense, Jones has the ability to become a franchise left tackle, protecting Kenny Pickett's blindside and providing immediate help in the run game.
But it will take time for Jones to reach his ceiling. His aforementioned frame and athleticism make him a first-round talent, but some of his flaws will be exploited by NFL edge rushers.
For one, he is off balance far too often. This can lead to him falling over and letting pass rushers get underneath and bend around him.
More of a technique flaw than anything, this is why you have coaches.
And Mike Tomlin is known to be unafraid of coaching. Here's an excerpt from a piece about the "Steelers way" by Kevin Clark of The Ringer:
Tomlin went on to say he gets frustrated when he reads draft evaluations that say things like a player has poor hand usage. Well, that’s just coaching. Fix it. “I don’t run away from coaching. I run to coaching,” he said. “It’s all in line with not seeking comfort, because when you are a coach and you’re talking about somebody that can’t learn, you’re seeking comfort because your teaching is struggling.”
And for the slight deficiencies in technique Jones does show, he makes up in other key areas of protection.
Pittsburgh is likely to go offensive line or corner at 17, filling either the biggest hole on offense or defense.
If tackle is their choice, they will be hard-pressed to find a better prospect than Broderick Jones in the middle of round one.
